Phil LaGiglia and Andy Trakszelis to Join Nations Lending Within the Illinois Market

AURORA, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nations Lending Corporation is excited to announce that mortgage industry veterans Phil LaGiglia, Andy Trakszelis, and the team at Oak Leaf Community Mortgage will be joining the Nations family to better serve the Illinois market. Their anticipated arrival reflects Nations Lending’s continued investment in top-tier leadership and strategic growth throughout the Chicagoland region.

“The addition of Phil LaGiglia and Andy Trakszelis represents a major step forward for our growth strategy in the Aurora market and throughout the greater Chicagoland region,” said Tim Dowling, SVP Eastern Divisional Manager at Nations Lending. “What stands out about Phil and Andy is not only their production success, but the culture they create around them. One built on accountability, professionalism, and long-term relationships. They bring an entrepreneurial mindset and a passion for mentoring others that aligns perfectly with the direction of Nations Lending. We’re excited for what’s ahead as they prepare to launch this next chapter with our organization.”

With decades of combined mortgage banking and sales leadership experience, Phil and Andy are expected to play an instrumental role in expanding Nations Lending’s presence throughout the Illinois market, beginning in the Chicagoland footprint, by building high-performing teams focused on exceptional client service.

“We are thrilled that Phil and Andy will be bringing their experience and leadership to Nations Lending,” said Jeremy Sopko, CEO of Nations Lending. “Both have earned tremendous respect in the industry through their commitment to clients, referral partners, and team development. Their addition will further strengthen our position in the Illinois market.”

Professional Background & Achievements

Phil LaGiglia

Phil LaGiglia is recognized as a seasoned mortgage leader with a strong reputation for operational excellence, business development, and relationship-driven growth. Throughout his career, he has:

• Built and managed successful mortgage platforms with a focus on production growth and client satisfaction
• Developed long-standing relationships with real estate professionals, builders, and financial advisors throughout the Midwest, highlighted within the Chicagoland footprint
• Demonstrated expertise across conventional, FHA, VA, jumbo, and specialty loan programs
• Mentored and coached mortgage professionals, helping originators grow production and improve client retention
• Earned a reputation for delivering personalized mortgage strategies and responsive communication throughout the lending process

Andy Trakszelis

Andy Trakszelis brings extensive experience in branch leadership, mortgage origination, and market expansion. His professional accomplishments include:

• Leading mortgage teams focused on customer-first service and operational consistency
• Driving strong production performance through referral partnerships and community engagement
• Building scalable operations while maintaining compliance and service excellence
• Assisting first-time homebuyers, move-up buyers, and refinance clients with customized financing solutions
• Establishing himself as a trusted advisor known for transparency, professionalism, and market expertise

Together, Phil and Andy are expected to lead recruitment efforts, support loan originator development, and expand Nations Lending’s reach throughout Chicagoland and outlining markets. .

“Phil and Andy share our vision of combining high-level service with strong local relationships,” Sopko added. “We’re confident they will make an immediate impact once they officially come aboard.”

About Nations Lending

Founded in 2003, Nations Lending Corporation™ is one of the nation’s fastest-growing independent mortgage lenders. Headquartered near Cleveland, Ohio, the company is licensed in all 50 states and operates more than 120 branches nationwide. Nations Lending is committed to its philosophy of “home loans made human”, pairing innovative mortgage technology with personalized customer care.

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