Former Acting Comptroller of the Currency and NCUA Chairman Rodney E. Hood Rejoins Zest AI Board

Distinguished regulatory leader returns to leading AI lending technology company to advance AI-powered solutions that strengthen the U.S. financial system

BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Zest AI, a leader in AI lending technology, announced today that Rodney E. Hood, who previously served as Acting Comptroller of the Currency, Chairman of the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), and Director of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, has rejoined Zest AI’s Board of Directors. Hood, who previously served on Zest AI's board, returns at a pivotal moment as the company accelerates efforts to modernize America's lending infrastructure through responsible AI innovation.

“I've seen lending from every angle–as a regulator, as a banker, and as someone who cares deeply about economic empowerment," said Hood. "Zest AI represents the future I've been working toward: innovation that creates economic prosperity for consumers while enabling financial institutions of all sizes to compete and grow. Together, these outcomes strengthen the broader financial system and the U.S. economy–a win for all.”

Hood brings more than three decades of experience in financial services, regulation, and public policy, with service under three U.S. Presidential terms. Most recently, as Acting Comptroller of the Currency, Hood championed responsible innovation while ensuring regulatory rigor essential to a stable financial system. As Vice Chairman and Chairman of the NCUA, he spearheaded efforts to modernize credit union operations and expand financial inclusion, particularly in underserved communities.

His private-sector career includes leadership roles at JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America, where he focused on community development and Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) compliance. From beginning his career as a CRA officer at Bank of America, to leading affordable housing initiatives at Wells Fargo, to building nonprofit and regulatory partnerships at JPMorgan, Hood has consistently advanced financial access and inclusion.

"Rodney has an exceptional track record of balancing innovation with regulatory excellence–experience that aligns directly with Zest AI’s mission," said Mike de Vere, CEO of Zest AI. "His return comes at the perfect time as we continue to expand our product suite and client base to strengthen the U.S. consumer credit system with responsible AI. Rodney will be instrumental in helping us deepen engagement with government agencies to institutionalize AI solutions that enhance compliance and drive operational efficiency."

Zest AI helps lenders grow by modernizing and automating intelligence throughout the lending journey. The company offers a suite of AI tools for lenders, including its flagship product, AI-automated underwriting, as well as LuLu for gen-AI powered lending intelligence and Zest Protect for fraud detection. By enhancing compliance, improving efficiency, and expanding access to affordable credit, Zest AI empowers financial institutions of all sizes to better serve their communities and compete in today’s rapidly evolving market.

About Zest AI

Founded in 2009, Zest AI is a leader in financial technology with a mission to modernize lending and strengthen the financial system. The company is transforming the $17 trillion US consumer credit market by delivering AI technology that helps lenders identify creditworthy borrowers overlooked by legacy credit methods, while leveling the playing field for financial institutions of all sizes to harness AI. With over 600 custom AI models and 50+ issued and pending patents, Zest AI is providing financial institutions with a comprehensive suite of solutions spanning underwriting, fraud detection, lending intelligence, and more to make smarter lending decisions that power growth and profitability. The company has been named on Forbes 2024 Fintech 50 List and CNBC’s 2025 World’s Top FinTech Companies list in the Enterprise FinTech category. Learn more at Zest AI and connect on LinkedIn.