Alex Ilich is a modern-day Renaissance man. The branch manager of Guild Mortgage in Chicago is a past Rose Bowl champion, lead guitarist in a band, scuba diver and motorcyclist. He not only knows a thing or two about success, but he is also a natural leader and has survived the challenges of every loan market for the past 29 years.

“I’ve been in lending for almost 30 years,” says Ilich. “My dad was a top-producing loan officer in the ’80s and ’90s, and I followed suit.” Ilich was born and raised in Chicago, and his knowledge of its many neighborhoods and markets runs deep, giving him an advantage over the competition.

Closing loans in today’s higher-interest market is no small feat, but Ilich and his assistant boast a near-perfect close ratio. “We do not waste people’s time if the deal is not doable,” he points out. As a consistent top producer and winner of his company’s Circle of Excellence award, Ilich’s accolades speak volumes. His many years in the industry, combined with past experience as a bank officer and now a branch manager, set him apart from the competition.

When it comes to client testimonials, Ilich’s responsiveness and professionalism strike a chord. “Our clients tell us we are very responsive to their needs,” he adds. As a branch manager and mentor, he guides his team to success. His secret weapon is his vast network of satisfied clients. “Surviving in this rising interest rate market is our greatest achievement,” he says. “I am relentless in how I fight for my clients, whether it means getting them the best possible rate or addressing challenges that can pop up during the approval process.”

With a career that spans decades and a personality that’s larger than life, Ilich isn’t just a branch manager; he’s creating a loyal following of satisfied clients wherever he goes, and living life with flair.