INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July, 23 2025) – Indiana Business Journal has named Ruoff Mortgage Owner and CEO, Mark Music, to the list of 250 Most Influential Leaders.
IBJ Media on Wednesday unveiled its fourth annual Indiana 250, a list of the state’s most influential business and community leaders from a wide range of sectors, including both public and private organizations. Music was named to the list under the Financial and Business Services sector.
The list was compiled by executives, editors and newsroom staff from IBJ Media’s three news brands — Indianapolis Business Journal, Inside INdiana Business and The Indiana Lawyer — following a months-long process of reviewing nominations, researching Indiana organizations and consulting community leaders across the state.
“To be included on the 250 list is a very special honor,” shares Music. “Not only do I have the pleasure of continuing to lead the outstanding team at Ruoff Mortgage, but this season of life has brought me a new professional passion in being the majority owner of Fort Wayne Football Club. The opportunity to impact Northeastern Indiana’s sports legacy is shaping up to be a unique career highlight for me.”
The list features more than 60 new names compared to last year who represent cities and counties from across the state. Music joins the list for 2025 with other notable names including Notre Dame head football coach Marcus Freeman, Pacers point guard Tyrese Haliburton, Stan Pinegar of Duke Energy, Indy Pro Volleyball co-owner Jim Schumacher, and Jack Griffin of Atlas World Group, to name a few.
“Every year, we see fresh faces stepping up and driving meaningful change across Indiana,” IBJ Media CEO, Nate Feltman, said. “The Indiana 250 is a snapshot of those bold thinkers and doers who are shaping the future of our state — from innovative entrepreneurs to dedicated community advocates. It’s truly inspiring to witness the depth of talent and passion making Indiana a great place to live and work.”
Music’s endeavors are no stranger to accomplishments. Since joining the company in 2007, Ruoff Mortgage has been named to Inc. 5000’s list of Fastest Growing Companies for 10 consecutive years. The company has also been recognized by Scotsman Guide’s Top Lender list countless times, named a Top 50 Mortgage Company by Mortgage Executive Magazine, and holds the top spot in Customer Experience by Experience.com, boasting an incredible 98.4% customer satisfaction index.
On the Fort Wayne Football Club side, the club has held the title of USL League Two Valley Division Champions for the past three seasons. With Music’s leadership and support, the club is ascending the ranks of pro soccer joining the USL League One roster in 2026. This promotion is supported by a new state-of-the-art stadium privately funded by Music. The 9,300-person capacity, multi-use stadium will be home for Fort Wayne Football Club, along with hosting concerts and community enrichment events.
When asked about being a leader, both within his organizations and his community, Music shared that his favorite thing is having the opportunity to change lives. “I have historically done a lot of recruiting during my time at Ruoff,” he shares. “Meeting with potential new team members and setting expectations and then delivering on them can’t be topped. Having someone join our organization and watch it be life changing for that person and their family is really special.”
With little to no struggle to fill his time, Mark Music oversees a total of 8 companies, serves on multiple Nonprofit and advisory boards and has donated millions of dollars to Indiana organizations. He leads alongside talented teams who share the same core values that he lives by. “One of our core principles is “Embrace Curiosity and Innovation”. My preference with my teams is what I call the ‘TNT’ approach, Today Not Tomorrow. Nothing should be done tomorrow that can be done today.”
To view the list in its entirety, click HERE.
About Indiana Business Journal:
IBJ Media is the parent company of three news brands: Indianapolis Business Journal, Inside INdiana Business and The Indiana Lawyer. Learn more at IBJMedia.com. Indianapolis Business Journal: Since 1980, the Indianapolis Business Journal has been known for its in-depth and thoughtful coverage of central Indiana's business community. IBJ produces its weekly award-winning newspaper, daily news updates, thought-leading podcasts and 30-plus events and award programs. Learn more at IBJ.com.
About Ruoff Mortgage:
Ruoff Mortgage is a full-service residential mortgage company with 60+ retail locations and originates in 31 states through their online consumer direct division. They have been ranked on the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies in America list for ten consecutive years and have appeared in the Top 100 Mortgage Companies in America and Top Mortgage Employer lists by several industry publications. Ruoff Mortgage has a 98.4% customer satisfaction rating, as compiled by CX leader, Experience.com. www.ruoff.com