The Mortgage Bankers Association recently announced the appointment of James P. Gross as AVP of accounting, tax, and bank regulation. MBA also announced the retirement of Gross’ predecessor, Alison Utermohlen after 20 years of service with the association.

According to the MBA, Gross will help develop and implement its strategy on legislative, regulatory, and industry issues in the areas of accounting and tax policy, as well as bank regulatory capital. He will also serve as the staff representative to MBA’s Financial Management Committee. “MBA is very fortunate to welcome Jim to our Government Affairs Staff,” said Jonathon L. Kempner, MBA’s president and CEO. “His thorough understanding of financial management and accounting standards and his years of active participation on our Financial Management Committee will allow him to step right in and hit the ground running.” Gross has over 20 years of experience working in accounting and tax policy in the industry. Previously, Gross served as the CFO of NetBank, Inc. He has also served as CFO and controller at a number of small and mid-size banks and major mortgage banks.