“Servant leadership is all about making the goals clear, and then rolling up your sleeves and doing whatever it takes to help people win.” – Dr. Ken Blanchard
While there are many quotes defining a person as a servant leader, none seemed more fitting for this month’s Highlight. An individual in both life and career who is obsessed with helping others achieve greatness. An individual who sets unattainable goals for himself and for others knowing what it will take to surpass them.
If you ask Eric Zeier, these limits and records are only a testament to the team’s effort as a whole and always celebrated as such. Eric joined Homeowners Financial Group in January 2020 as the Regional Manager for our new Southeast Region. As in his prior career, Eric understood the challenges ahead and also recognized how the talent around him, with proper strategy and play calling, would allow the region to not only take root but to thrive. And he has done just that with the team he has built and servantly leads.
“Where do a I start with Eric? When I think of a leader, I want someone to lift me up when things aren’t going my way, motivate me when I’m having a tough day, and most importantly someone who wants the absolute best for me and my family,” shared Sales Manager Cameron Walters. “Eric truly cares about every single person he works with and he wants you to grow as much personally as he does professionally. You will not find a better person on this planet than Eric. He has many great qualities but my favorite is the heart he has for his family, this company, and everyone he serves.”
During the awards dinner at our 2022 State of the Union event, the Atlanta branch was named the 2021 Branch of the Year and called to the stage to accept the award with pride. “We are proud to recognize this branch for their success and commitment to Homeowners, having demonstrated excellence in the areas of charitable involvement, cultural initiative participation, overall volume, and leadership feedback,” our CEO/Owner/Founder Bill Rogers announced. “Thank you for exemplifying what it means to be an outstanding branch.” Eric was seen waving on Area Manager David Karamitros to accept the award with him and celebrate the moment with the team.
Eric’s talents extend to recruiting as well. Licensed Mortgage Professional Jaime Taylor had been with another company for four years, but it didn’t feel like home there, her heart wasn’t in it, and it was a struggle to get things done. Eric kept calling her, and even though she hates change, she agreed to meet with him anyway. “He seems nice,” she thought. Within three minutes of talking to Eric, she knew she was coming to work for him and wanted him to be her leader. Today, she would follow him and David anywhere. “I would follow them through fire,” Jaime said. “I trust their leadership, their hearts are in the right place, and I’m grateful for their support.”
Prior to Eric’s mortgage experience, he enjoyed a very successful collegiate and professional football career. Eric was all All-American quarterback at the University of Georgia, and as a four-year starter, he broke many school and SEC records. Eric was a team captain and Heisman trophy finalist both his junior and senior year. Eric is a member of the University of Georgia Circle of Honor, which recognizes and pays tribute to extraordinary student-athletes and coaches who, by their performance and conduct, have brought honor to the university. In February 2022, Eric was inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, an individual honor he shares with wife Julie and his family. Of course, he credits the many people who provided their own servant leadership to him along the way.
“When you walk away from any conversation with Eric Zeier, you feel motivated, inspired, and heard,” said Digital Marketing Coordinator Hannah Rogers. “He’s the type of guy who just makes you want to be better. He has an incredible influence on this company and his leadership holds value even to those who don’t directly work with him every day.”
We are fortunate to have Eric in command and we support his efforts as he marches alongside this team to achieve more greatness.
3 words that best describe Eric: Humble. Giving. Grateful.
For the Georgia Football fans: Damn Good Dawg
We are always looking for experienced professionals who are committed to serving the needs of borrowers while maintaining a corporate culture focused on family. If this is you, please contact us at www.homeownersfg.com/careers for more information on becoming a Homie.
