Guild Mortgage Co. announced the opening of a new Carlsbad branch as part of the company's continued expansion throughout the West. The branch opening coincides with Guild's recent launch of the exclusive Elite Jumbo Program, the cornerstone of the company's push for market share in higher end Calif. real estate markets.

Michael Phillips, who has more than 20 years experience in both loan origination and management, will lead the Carlsbad branch as manager. Prior to joining Guild, Phillips worked for Mutual of Omaha Bank as the market manager for Hawaii and Del Mar, Calif.