It may be a thumping tumble down from running IT operations for the world's most famous software company, but Stuart Scott, recently sacked by Microsoft under unexplained/scandalous circumstances, has landed on his feet, albeit in an industry that as of late has displayed all the stability of a drunken sailor.

Scott has been named chief operating officer at Taylor, Bean & Whitaker, a wholesale mortgage lender headquartered in Ocala, Fla.

Announced just before noon on the getaway day before Thanksgiving, presumably to ensure minimal press coverage (it worked), Scott's hiring elicited effusive praise from his new employer:

Mr. Scott's vast technology experience with Microsoft Corporation and General Electric made him an obvious choice.

"We share the same focus; to offer the best technology and provide our customers with the best experience," said Lee Farkas, TB&W Chairman. "Stuart's credentials are impressive. Having someone of his caliber join us further solidifies our ability to deliver innovative technology solutions. We are very excited to have him on board."

Never having heard of Taylor, Bean before this morning, I cannot tell you anything about Scott's new employer, but you can read some unflattering chatter from this summer on a brokers' board here. Taylor, Bean's CEO is named Paul Allen. No, not that one.

Scott starts his new job on Monday, and, according to the press release, will continue to live in Bellevue, Washington, while steering the Taylor, Bean operations based in Florida.

Curiously, the release announcing Scott's hiring offered nothing to help solve the mystery of his firing.