People in the News, Sept. 23, 2025

(Andria Lightfoot, courtesy of FirstClose)

FirstClose Promotes Andria Lightfoot, Announces Four New Hires

FirstClose, Austin, Texas, announced the promotion of Andria Lightfoot to vice president of client success.

Lightfoot will join the sales and revenue organization and be responsible for implementation and customer success strategy.

She has more than 20 years of experience in the mortgage industry, previously serving as chief customer officer at SimpleNexus.

FirstClose has also added four new industry sales professionals.

Austin Wilcox is now regional vice president, and previously worked with Volly and ClosingCorp.

Darcy Hall has been hired as a business development manager. She was most recently with MMI.

Jon Del Pozo is also a regional vice president, previously with ICE and Ellie Mae.

Finally, Tracy Farber has joined as vice president, sales solution engineer. Farber has previously worked with Ellie Mae, SimpleNexus and nCino.

Planet Home Lending Adds Patrick Ridley in Atlanta

Planet Home Lending, Meriden, Conn., has expanded into Atlanta with the addition of Area Sales Manager Patrick Ridley.

Ridley will use Planet’s suite of products to help clients purchase faster, move up confidently and unlock the value in their homes.

Ridley will also work to establish Planet’s presence in the Atlanta market.