Success used to be about titles, but now it means a balanced life with God, family, and work, while unplugging to recharge and pursue my goals.
Tammy Kiehl · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Tammy
Tamara Kiehl is a seasoned mortgage banking leader with more than 28 years of experience in the financial services industry. She began her career as a bank teller and steadily advanced through a variety of branch leadership roles while raising her family. Her passion for helping individuals achieve homeownership led her to pursue a career in mortgage lending. Demonstrating the confidence and initiative that have defined her career, Tamara earned her first Mortgage Loan Originator position after boldly asking for the opportunity during an interview. Today, she serves as Mortgage Sales Manager for Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU) in the Greater Tampa Bay area, where she leads a team of mortgage professionals, coaches loan officers to grow their businesses, provides guidance on complex lending scenarios, and continues to originate loans when opportunities arise. Throughout her career, Tamara has built extensive expertise in residential mortgage lending, sales leadership, talent development, compliance, and corporate training. She is known for cultivating her teams, creating collaborative work environments, and mentoring professionals to reach their full potential. Her background includes leadership roles in mortgage sales, retail banking, and organizational development, allowing her to combine strategic business insight with a genuine passion for developing people. Tamara earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from Eckerd College and has continued to strengthen her leadership through ongoing professional development and service within the mortgage banking industry. Outside of her professional career, Tamara believes in maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life. She is an avid reader and history enthusiast who enjoys exploring historical topics and lifelong learning. Living in Florida, she loves spending time at the beach, where she finds inspiration and relaxation. A certified yoga instructor, Tamara is passionate about promoting wellness, mindfulness, and personal growth values that complement her leadership philosophy of empowering others, fostering resilience, and helping individuals achieve both personal and professional success.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Tammy
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my unwavering faith in God and the belief that He has a purpose and a plan for my life. That faith has given me the strength to persevere through challenges, the confidence to embrace new opportunities, and the humility to continue learning and growing. By trusting God's guidance while remaining committed to hard work, integrity, and serving others, I have been able to build a meaningful career and help those around me succeed.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is to keep going, no matter the obstacles, and always do your best. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but perseverance, a strong work ethic, and consistently giving your best effort will open doors and create opportunities. Success isn't determined by avoiding difficulties it's achieved by staying committed, maintaining a positive attitude, and continuing to move forward with excellence and determination.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the mortgage and financial services industry is to keep going, even when the path becomes challenging. Believe in your abilities, continue learning, and don't let setbacks discourage you from pursuing your goals. At the same time, remember to take time to unwind and care for yourself. Maintaining a healthy balance between your career and personal well-being will help you stay resilient, focused, and prepared for long-term success.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest opportunities in the mortgage and financial services industry is growth—both through expanding business opportunities and attracting top talent. As markets evolve and customer needs change, there is a significant opportunity to actively recruit and develop qualified Mortgage Loan Originators who can strengthen our market presence, build deeper member relationships, and drive sustainable loan growth. Professionals who embrace change, invest in their knowledge, and remain focused on delivering exceptional service are well-positioned to contribute to organizational growth while advancing their own careers.
If you are an established Mortgage Loan Originator in the Tampa Bay market and are seeking new opportunities to grow and expand your business, please feel free to reach out. I'd welcome the opportunity to discuss how LMCU's culture, products, and commitment to member service can help support your success.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are honesty and integrity. I believe in doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, and in treating others with fairness, respect, and transparency. These principles have earned the trust of my colleagues, clients, and community, and they continue to guide every decision I make. By leading with integrity and staying true to my values, I strive to build meaningful relationships and make a positive impact both professionally and personally.
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