Class Appraisal has hired industry veteran Julie Jones as senior vice president of its Valuation Transformation and Engagement department, the company announced.

Jones will be reporting to Scot Rose the company’s chief innovation officer, Class Appraisal said.

Jones is a former member of the Collateral Policy and Strategy team for Fannie Mae where she led outreach for team initiatives, including Appraisal Process Modernization, while successfully forming relationships with stakeholders through an open line of communication, collaboration, and transparency.

During her time at Fannie Mae, Jones served as a national review appraiser and as a subject matter expert for collateral underwriter, appraisal policy, and various internal applications and procedures, the company said.

“The company is strategically investing in industry veterans that can help shape the future of the valuation industry, and Julie is an important part of that effort,” Rose said in the release. “In her new role, Julie will help develop innovative solutions and facilitate market adoption of those solutions through training, education, and engagement with all stakeholders.”

Class Appraisal emphasized that Jones has comprehensive experience in real estate and collateral valuation having begun her career as a practicing appraiser and REALTOR in North Carolina and retaining her certification as a residential appraiser.

“The company’s new Innovation Organization will focus on much needed research and development in the valuation space,” Jones said. “Hearing their vision for the future of our industry made this an opportunity I simply couldn't pass up. I’m very excited to get started and help spearhead that change.”