Flagstar Bancorp, Inc. has announced the addition of Kirby Brendsel as Flagstar's ESG and Sustainability director. In this newly created role, Brendsel will lead a team to oversee the growth and development of Flagstar's ESG and sustainability efforts focused on people, planet and performance. Brendsel brings nearly two decades of ESG experience, including a background in foundation leadership, sustainability, and diversity, equity and inclusion.

Most recently he was with Welltower, Inc., and earlier in his career, with Nuveen and Starwood Hotels and Resorts. He discovered his passion for serving others while on active duty with the U.S. Army and continues that passion through service on the conservation commission in his hometown of Weston, Connecticut, and prior to that, on the sustainability committee, where he helped bring solar energy and a sustainable CT certification to the community. In the months ahead, Brendsel plans to implement a detailed ESG plan that focuses on all of Flagstar's stakeholders, including employees, customers and the communities Flagstar serves.

This will involve assessing and augmenting current ESG data, establishing integrated ESG goals, identifying and addressing gaps and policy updates, as well as increasing stakeholder engagement and disclosure. In his short time at the bank, Brendsel has already made a difference with new initiatives such as launching a new Green Team employee resource group, leading Flagstar's efforts to become an Energy Star Partner and attaining green building certifications.