KATHERINE M. O'BRIEN
*** **** **** ****** #**** ( New York, New York 10010
212-***-**** ( *****.*********@*****.***
ACQUISITIONS ANALYST ( RESEARCH SPECIALIST ( PROJECT MANAGER
Accomplished transaction specialist with extensive experience developing
strategies, processes, and procedures that consistently increase revenue
through international acquisitions and real estate transactions.
Effectively coordinate between a broad range of disparate contributors and
stakeholders to resolve problems and drive projects to profitable
completion. Spanish proficiency allows efficient review, analysis, and
closing of Spanish-language legal and real estate transactions. Recognized
by peers, managers, and clients as a valuable resource and subject matter
expert.
Areas of expertise
Financial Enhancement ( International Site Acquisition ( Business
Development ( Risk Management
Process Re-Engineering ( Financing Statements ( Closing Documents ( Legal
Document Review
Market & Competitive Analysis ( Due Diligence ( Client Relations ( Real
Estate Underwriting
Emerging Markets ( Contract Negotiation ( Problem Solving ( Bi-Lingual:
English & Spanish
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
FIRST AMERICAN DE MEXICO ( San Diego, California ( 2009-2010
Division of First American Company that provides business information
services such as insurance, mortgage, property, credit, automotive, title,
and screening.
Special Projects Consultant
Provided market research/analysis, due diligence, industry review,
competitive analysis, and deal evaluation for large-scale international
transactions. Investigated new leads, targeting Fortune 500 companies with
international operations primarily in Mexico. Compiled market statistics,
competitive information, and contact information for potential deals and
presented recommendations to internal and external clients. Developed email
marketing campaigns for individual clients and deals.
. Established relationship with Michelin Guides to create custom book,
First American's Guide to Buying a Home in Mexico, researching and
authoring all content, creating layout, and guiding book to printer-
ready version.
. Transformed corporate marketing strategies by creating email templates
based on communication requirements and division styles, securing more
than 700 photos to create a marketing database.
LANDAMERICA COMMERCIAL SERVICES ( New York, New York ( 2007-2008
Provider of title insurance policies for commercial properties in Europe
and Asia Pacific. Now part of Fidelity.
Legal Assistant / Underwriter
Quickly promoted from Legal Assistant to reviewing, analyzing, and
underwriting large-scale, international real estate transactions. Evaluated
due diligence and authored commitments for international refinancing
projects, retail deals, hotel/resort projects, and mixed-use transactions.
Evaluated legal problems and developed strategies for effectively managing
risk. Served as the main point of contact for attorneys, clients, and key
stakeholders. Simultaneously managed all documents/files, maintained CRM
database, and provided administrative support to SVP.
KATHERINE M. O'BRIEN ( Page 2 ( *****.*********@*****.***
. Increased closing rate by streamlining internal processes, implementing
a web-based platform for tracking projects, and expanding exposure to a
broader range of underwriting transactions.
. Spearheaded development of an expense tracking system that allowed
management to accurately compile and evaluate all project costs.
GLOBAL SOLUTIONS ( New York, New York ( 2001-2007
International division of Fidelity National Title Company providing title
insurance and escrow services to properties in Mexico, the Caribbean,
Western Europe, and parts of Latin America.
Assistant Vice President
Senior-level underwriting professional overseeing all aspects of commercial
transactions for the Mexico Division. Held full authority for identifying
and negotiating deals, preparing closing documents, and maintaining
budget/financial performance. Ensured all project files were continuously
updated and that confidential information was secure at all times.
Monitored ongoing projects and provided weekly, monthly, and annual
production status reports on financial performance as well as potential
problems. Matrix managed supervising agents, brokers, and attorneys in
Mexico, ensuring the highest level of quality, integrity, and customer
service.
. Increased department revenue 6x and gross profits more than 12x by
partnering with senior management to quickly resolve problems and push
deals through escrow.
. Provided underwriting expertise for 200+ residential title insurance
policies, serving as escrow agent, closing coordinator, and client
relationship manager.
. Commercial underwriter for multiple global, multi-site hotel
purchases/dissolutions.
. Overhauled all department procedures with a focus on efficiency,
increased productivity, and greater profitability. Implemented a new
transaction database, file management system, escrow
documents/procedures, and marketing materials.
. Key contributor in conceptualizing and launching Global Solutions Cost
Rica, S.A., determining business guidelines and procedures to ensure
compliance with international law as well as company standards.
Career Note: Additional employment includes Freelancer Photographer with
The Ridgefield Press, providing assignment-based services as needed. Full
details available on request.
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts in Art History
The George Washington University ( Washington, D.C.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Basic Knowledge of Spanish