Meet Our Leaders

The executive leadership at NRL Mortgage exemplifies dedication and commitment, continuously striving to empower their employees nationwide. With a visionary approach, they prioritize both professional growth and personal well-being, ensuring every team member has access to resources and support for success. NRL’s executives foster a culture that values innovation, integrity, and excellence, creating an environment where employees feel valued and motivated to excel. This steadfast dedication has helped NRL Mortgage build a robust and supportive workplace, where every employee, from new hires to seasoned professionals, is encouraged to reach their full potential, contributing to the company’s lasting impact and success.


Mewael Ghebremichael

Chief Executive Officer  

With over two decades of experience in the mortgage industry, Mewael has worked at all levels of the business, holding previous positions as a Loan Originator, Branch Manager, Executive Vice President of Operations, Chief Production Officer, and most recently Chief Executive Officer (CEO). As CEO, Mewael brings together the sales and operations teams to achieve an integrated high-quality customer experience. Mewael embodies NRL’s ICARE values. He leads with an emphasis on transparency, relationships, and compassion.


Ron Zach

President & Chairman of the Board  

Ron's extensive experience, commitment to excellence, caring, and his compassionate style are his greatest strengths as a leader. His career in the mortgage industry started in 2001 on the front lines for another national lender. In his first year at NRL, he grew the company from $200 million in volume to $ 400 million in annual sales. Ron has been recognized as a Top 40 under 40 Rising-Star by Housing Wire, the Next 40 Mortgage Professionals to Watch from the National Mortgage Professional, the Hot 100 by Mortgage Professionals of America, and the Who’s Who in Real Estate by Houston Agent Magazine.


Michael Allen

Chief Secondary Officer 

Michael entered the mortgage industry in 1999 as a loan processor, soon progressing to loan originator and then branch manager. Since co-founding Nations Reliable Lending in 2007, Michael has played a pivotal role in the company's growth. He has served in many departments at NRL Mortgage, including Underwriting and Credit. A member of the Texas Mortgage Bankers Association and the National Mortgage Bankers Association, Michael also holds an FHA Direct Endorsement. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Texas A&M. Michael enjoys playing golf and spending time with his family in Houston.


Steven Curtis 

Chief Production Officer   

With an illustrious career spanning over 21 years in the mortgage industry Steven is widely recognized for his strategic vision, leadership acumen, and unwavering commitment to driving operational excellence. In his role as Chief Production Officer, Steven is poised to leverage his expertise to spearhead NRL Mortgage's production strategy, ensuring sustained growth and operational efficiency. He is committed to enhancing customer experience, promoting diversity and inclusion, and driving NRL Mortgage to new heights of success in an ever-evolving mortgage landscape.


Matt Kovach

Chief Strategy & Transformation Officer 

Matt began his mortgage career in 1998 as a loan originator and quickly moved into a loan officer role, where he became a top producer for the company averaging over 120 loans per year. With over 23 years of experience, Matt has gained extensive knowledge of both the sales and operational sides of the mortgage industry. He has a proven track record of implementing company-defining strategies and initiatives to help drive volume and improve efficiencies. Matt is a member of the Texas Mortgage Bankers Association, the National Mortgage Bankers Association, and a past president of Habitat for Humanity Northwest Harris County in Houston, Texas. He enjoys spending his free time with his family (especially his dogs), trying new restaurants, and going to the movies.


Kevin Murphy

Chief Operations Officer & General Counsel   

Kevin is a highly accomplished mortgage executive with 24 years of experience leading large-scale teams on multiple continents. Kevin is licensed to practice law in Texas and is also a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and Certified Residential Appraiser. He holds a bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University and a law degree from South Texas College of Law. Kevin enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with his family in Houston.