Berkadia Promotes Ernie Katai to Head of Production

Horsham, PA—Berkadia Commercial Mortgage announced the promotion of Ernie Katai to executive vice president and head of production. He succeeds Karl Reinlein, who is stepping down from day-to-day production management after 17 years of service to Berkadia.

Katai was formerly a senior vice president and branch manager of Berkadia’s Detroit office. In his new role, he will be responsible for the oversight of Berkadia’s national origination network, which spans more than 50 offices nationwide. Reinlein will remain with the company to work with Katai on strategic projects and role transition.

Katai has over 30 years of experience in the commercial real estate industry and extensive expertise with all major property and loan types. He has been with Berkadia and its predecessor companies since 1995 and became the Detroit office branch manager in 2003. Under his leadership, the Detroit office has placed $6.5 billion in loans, encompassing all property types with 75 different lenders in 25 states.

Additionally, Katai has worked extensively with Hendricks-Berkadia, the company’s investment sales business unit, to help expand both apartment investment sales and mortgage banking services for clients throughout the country.

“Ernie has been an invaluable part of our company, and we know that he’s going to bring the same passion and leadership to this new role as he did to the Detroit office,” said Hugh Frater, CEO of Berkadia. “He is an incredibly worthy successor to Karl, without whom we wouldn’t be where we are. Karl is one of the most knowledgeable people in our industry and a great friend, and we are certain that Ernie will carry on his legacy of commitment, excellence and partnership.”