After a comprehensive search process by the American Securitization Forum’s (ASF) board of directors, Tom Deutsch was appointed as executive director of the organization.

Members of the board said they strongly believe Deutsch has the leadership skills, as well as the depth of experience and understanding of the industry to guide ASF in its efforts to restart the securitization markets and restore vital credit to Maine Street and everyday Americans.

During his five years at ASF, Deutsch has held various roles within the organization, including acting executive director, deputy executive director, and associate director. The board of directors said he provides ASF with continuity as the organization concludes its affiliate relationship with SIFMA, strengthens its role in building consensus within the industry, and continues to be an advocate for the securitization markets.

Over the past few years, Deutsch has spent a great deal of time in Washington, D.C. and various state capitols advocating on behalf of the securitization market, and he has worked tirelessly on industry initiatives such as ASF Project RESTART.

Before joining ASF in 2004, Deutsch served as an attorney in the capital markets department of Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft, LLP, where he represented issuers and underwriters in various structured finance offerings. Prior to his time at Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft, Deutsch was an associate at McKee Nelson, LLP, where he focused on residential mortgage-backed securitizations.