Movement Mortgage, a national top 10 retail mortgage lender, is excited to reinforce its commitment to growth in the Upper Midwest with the hiring of Regional Director Ricky Cheath.

Cheath's path to this point in his life is not typical, but the lessons and values he learned along the way have shaped him into a true servant leader. He is eager to help others achieve the same American Dream he did. 

Cheath is a first-generation Cambodian refugee. He came to the United States with his family when he was just three years old, seeking political asylum. "We settled in Minnesota because a church in Janesville stepped up and sponsored my family," he says. "They helped us in every way possible, and it's because of their generosity and kindness that we were able to assimilate as quickly as we did."

At Movement, we regularly talk about finding your "why." For Cheath, his life story is what drives him forward. "The mortgage industry is more than just financing homes for individuals or families. To me, it's about helping people achieve the American Dream of sustainable homeownership which creates stability and generational wealth," he says.

As Regional Director for the Upper Midwest, Cheath will guide Movement's teams in Minnesota, Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa and report to National Sales Director Deran Pennington. While the Midwest holds a strong homeownership percentage, Cheath sees great potential for Movement by educating and supporting underserved populations. "The goal is ultimately to help families," says Cheath. "I'm here to inspire, empower and grow our regional footprint so that we can continue to serve and strengthen communities across the Midwest. I can't wait to show people how Movement is more than just a mortgage company."

"Having Ricky join Movement is a win for us in a lot of ways," says Pennington. "First and foremost, he's a servant leader who has himself lived the American Dream. He understands the importance of home ownership and is passionate about helping others realize the same. His experience in the field and his track record of success are a bonus added on to the character he brings to the position."

From wakeboarding in the summer to ice fishing in the winter, Cheath and his family are drawn to anything on the water. When he's not watching his son Kai's soccer games and wrestling matches, or helping his daughter Bailey with swimming or ballet, Cheath and his fiancé Patty enjoy traveling to gain new perspective on life.