2025 Leasing News Person of the Year
David Lee

David C. Lee
North Mill Equipment Finance
Chairman
Chief Executive Officer

When asked about his top achievements for 2025, David Lee responded, "My biggest accomplishments were closing the $347 million acquisition of Pawnee out of bankruptcy court, preserving the jobs of 45 of their employees who are now part of the NMEF family, and the $502 million acquisition of the Midland Equipment Finance portfolio. I believe these represent the two largest acquisitions in our industry by an independent as deals like Ascentium and Verdant were by bank buyers."

Among the nominations by the Leasing News Advisory Board members was the Leasing Person of the Year, 2024, Randy Haug. "I would agree that David Lee, of NMEF, is an excellent choice for this award, given his history of sustaining success in our industry as a funding partner and innovator. In addition, he has strategically assembled his Executive and Leadership team to drive that success. He understands execution and he is truly an outstanding differentiator. Adding his thought leadership and industry involvement makes him the ideal choice in my eyes."

A recent company press release stated, "NMEF is a premier lender working with third-party referral sources to finance small to mid-ticket equipment commercial leases and loans ranging from $15,000 to $3,000,000 and up to $5,000,000 for investment grade opportunities.  NMEF accepts A – C credit qualities and finances transactions for many asset categories, including medical, construction, franchise, technology, vocational, manufacturing, and material handling equipment.

"NMEF is majority owned by an affiliate of InterVest Capital Partners and is headquartered in Norwalk, CT, with regional offices in Irvine, CA, Fort Collins, CO, Plymouth, MN, Voorhees NJ, and Murray, UT.  Since 2003 from its main office in Las Vegas, NV, one of NMEF’s controlled affiliates, BriteCap Financial LLC, is a leading non-bank lender providing small businesses with fast, convenient financing alternatives such as working capital loans. For more information, visit www.nmef.com and www.britecap.com."

Mr. Lee has nearly 40 years of executive financial services experience as an investment banker, private equity investor, lender, and operating executive. He has served as the Chairman and CEO of NMEF since December 2016 and previously was the CEO of Colford Capital Holdings, the former parent company of NMEF and its asset-based lending affiliate, North Mill Capital, from 2012 until the sale of NMEF to Wafra Capital Partners in August 2018.  Since the recapitalization, NMEF has grown to nearly $3 billion from approximately $100 million in total gross receivables.

Previously, Mr. Lee served as President of D.B. Zwirn & Co., a $6.5 billion AUM alternative asset manager and successfully navigated that firm through the 2008 financial crisis and eventual merger integration into Fortress Investment Group. He was the Founding Managing Partner of Saturn Venture Partners and a Partner with the private equity firm of Sandler Capital.

For the first half of his career, Mr. Lee was an investment banker, most recently serving as a Managing Director at Lazard, where he advised on M&A transactions valued in excess of $50 billion. Mr. Lee graduated magna cum laude from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania in 1986.

Previous Leasing Persons of the Year
Several for Careers of their Body of Work
https://leasingnews.org/Pages/poy_previous.html

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New Hires/Promotions in the Leasing Business
and Related Industries

Stephanie Epp was hired as a Sales Representative, Dext Capital. She works remote from the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area. She joined TEQLease Capital, June, 2018:  Senior Account Executive, SLED, promoted Asst. Vice President, Senior SLED Account Manager (March, 2025 - March, 2026).
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-epp-235967165/

Gino Sabeh was hired as Executive Vice President of Sales, 36th Street Capital Partners, Orange County, California. He is located in Anaheim, California. He was Senior Vice President of Sales, First National Capital Corporation (February, 2006- October, 2026); Sales Director, Residential Mortgage Companies (September, 2005 - February, 2008); Sales Manager, Smart
Systems Technologies (May, 2002 - September, 2005). Full Bio:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gino-sabeh-42492213/details/experience/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gino-sabeh-42492213/

Brian Wood, CLFP, was hired as Managing Director, Post Road Equipment Finance, LLC., Westport, Connecticut. He works remote from the Los Angele Metropolitan Area, California. Previously, he was at CoreTech, starting September, 2021 as Regional Vice President of Sales (September, 2021 - March, 2022); National Vice President of Sales, (March, 2022 – April, 2024), promoted SVP, Sales, (April, 2024 – March, 2026). Previously, Fifth Third Bank as Officer & Vice President of Sales (June, 2021 – September, 2021), Vice President of Sales, (September, 2019 -  June, 2021); VP, Business Development, Kingsbridge Holdings, (January, 2019 – September, 2019; Director of Business Development, EFFi Finance, Inc. (February, 2018 - January, 2019). Full Bio:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianfwood/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianfwood/details/experience/

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The Leadership Divide
AI, Geopolitics and the New Competitive Order in Commercial Lending
Ken Lubin
Managing Director | ZRG Partners

Commercial lending is about to experience a major leadership divide. And most banks don’t see it coming.

AI is already reshaping underwriting. Private credit has over $1.7T chasing deals. Geopolitical instability is changing borrower risk profiles.

But walk into many lending organizations and you still see manual credit processes, slow approval cycles, siloed leadership teams, and outdated operating models. Meanwhile, a small group of institutions are building something very different.

They’re combining AI‑driven underwriting, real‑time portfolio analytics, faster credit decisioning, and modern operating platforms. And most importantly, they’re developing leaders who actually understand the intersection of technology, credit, and macro risk.

That gap is going to widen fast. Some banks will gain serious market share over the next decade. Others will spend the cycle wondering why they keep losing deals.

I recently wrote a short paper called “The Leadership Divide” on where commercial lending is heading. Sharing it here (PDF)

 

Ken Lubin
Managing Director
ZRG Partners, LLC
Americas I EMEA I Asia Pacific
C: 508-733-4789
klubin@zrgpartners.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/klubin

Help Wanted Ad
    Ameris Bank Equipment Finance

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AACFB Announces 2026 Scholarship Winners

LOUISVILLE, KY – March 6, 2026 - The American Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (AACFB) is thrilled to announce the first-place recipient of the 2026 Rosanne Wilson Memorial Scholarship, Caden Kappes.

Since its inception in October 2020, the AACFB scholarship program has aimed to support high school seniors and students pursuing education in various avenues, including trade or technical schools, as well as traditional two or four-year institutions. To date, ten exceptional students have been awarded scholarships.

This year's first-place winner will receive a $3,500 award. Caden, a junior at the University of Minnesota Crookston, is majoring in Sport and Recreation Management and plans to attend law school following graduation. He was co-valedictorian of his high school and has maintained a near-perfect GPA in college. Caden played baseball, football, and basketball in high school and now plays baseball for the Golden Eagles at the university.

Expressing his gratitude, Caden stated, "I am deeply honored and sincerely grateful to be selected as a recipient of this scholarship. This generous financial support will help me cover essential expenses such as tuition, rent, food, and transportation to and from college. It will also allow me to reduce my student debt and better prepare for my future educational goals, including pursuing law school."

Runner-up Scholarship recipient

Alongside Caden, the Scholarship Task Force proudly recognizes Truman Gilbertson as the runner-up.
Truman, a freshman at Southwest Minnesota State University, will receive an award of $1,500. He is pursuing a degree in Business Finance while competing in wrestling at the collegiate level. 
Truman expressed his gratitude, stating, "I chose Finance as my major after growing up and watching both of my parents build their careers in the equipment finance industry. Seeing firsthand how their work helps businesses grow and succeed has inspired me to follow a similar path.
My goal is to build a career in equipment finance where I can make a meaningful impact, while continuing the strong work ethic and values my parents have instilled in me. I'm truly grateful to the AACFB and the Rosanne Wilson Memorial Scholarship for helping support my educational journey."
The AACFB is dedicated to expanding the reach of its scholarship program to support more students annually. Any company interested in sponsoring a scholarship is encouraged to contact Monica Harper at info@aacfb.org. Further details about the scholarship can be found at https://aacfb.org/scholarship.

About American Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (AACFB)
The American Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (AACFB), formerly the NAELB, is the premier trade association empowering independent commercial finance brokers. The AACFB represents the expanding interests of its growing membership by providing best practice education and networking opportunities, while promoting a culture of ethics. For more information visit: www.aacfb.org

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Major Finance/Leasing Association Conferences
Updated with Leasing News coverage

BROKER FAIR Returns to New York City – June 1, 2026

 

March 30-April 1, NEFA Spring Conference 
Huntington Beach, CA
https://www.nefassociation.org/event/2026-spring-conference/

Don Cosenza, CLFP,  Senior Vice President, Maxim  Commercial Capital, will cover the conference for Leasing News readers

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April 14-16, ELFA National Funding Conference
    Chicago, Illinois
https://www.elfaonline.org/events/national-funding-conference

Randy Haug, LTi Technology Solutions, Leasing Person of Year 2024 will be covering the conference for Leasing News readers

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May 5–May 7
American Association of Commercial Finance Brokers
Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista, Disney Springs, Orlando, Florida

Leasing News coverage by Vicki Shimkus, CLFP, Leasing News Advisory Board, Finance, Brokers Relationship Manager, Ameris Bank Equipment

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June 1
DeBanked Broker Fair
Returns to NYC June 1, 2026, after 1,100 Turn-Out in Miami
https://debanked.com/2026/03/broker-fair-returns-to-new-york-city-june-1-2026/

Don Cosenza, CLFP,  Senior Vice President, Maxim  Commercial Capital, will cover the conference for Leasing News readers

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September 28-30, NEFA Fall Conference
Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park
https://www.nefassociation.org/event/2026-fall-conference/

Don Cosenza, CLFP,  Senior Vice President, Maxim  Commercial Capital, will cover the conference for Leasing News readers

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October 21-23, AACFB Commercial Financing Expo
Hilton Irvine, Irvine, California
https://community.aacfb.org/events/event-description?CalendarEventKey=068b9817-3c58-4aaf-b21d-01999b13a2e4&Home=%2fevents%2fcalendar

Don Cosenza, CLFP,  Senior Vice President, Maxim  Commercial Capital, will cover the conference for Leasing News readers

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October 25–27, ELFA Annual Conference
JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, Palm Desert, CA
Online Scheduling Coming

Randy Haug, LTi Technology Solutions,  Leasing News Person of the Year 2024, will cover for Leasing News Readers:

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Top Ten Stories by Readers
March 3 - March 6

(1) New Hires/Promotions in the Leasing Business
    and Related Industries
https://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2026/03_03.htm#hires

(2) New Hires/Promotions in the Leasing Business
and Related Industries
https://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2026/03_06.htm#hires

(3) Saluting Leasing News
Board Advisor Don Myerson
https://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2026/03_06.htm#don

(7) Leasing News Covers
Major Finance/Leasing Association Conferences
Register Now for Recommended Hotel
https://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2026/03_03.htm#conf

(8) Wheeler Business Consulting
& NEFA Have Joined Forces
to Offer a Education Series For Brokers and Originators
https://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2026/03_03.htm#wheeler

(9) Help Wanted Ad
Ameris Bank Equipment Finance
https://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2026/03_03.htm#ads_help

(10) Your Career Will Always Mirror Your Standards
By Ken Lubin, Managing Director, ZRG Partners
https://leasingnews.org/archives/Mar2026/03_03.htm#your

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Summit Funding Group Selects LTi Technology Solutions’
ASPIRE Platform to Power Growth and Client Experience

[OMAHA, NE, March 10, 2026] – LTi Technology Solutions (LTi), a global leader in equipment finance software, announces that Summit Funding Group (Summit) has selected LTi’s flagship ASPIRE platform to accelerate operational efficiency and strengthen client experience across its nationwide portfolio.
Driving Growth and Operational Excellence

As one of the nation’s leading equipment finance and leasing companies, Summit sought a technology partner capable of supporting its expanding business, diverse portfolio mix, and commitment to customer service excellence. As a long-time LTi partner, Summit’s selection of LTi’s ASPIRE platform reflects its confidence in LTi’s ability to deliver a solution that integrates and automates the full lifecycle of equipment finance operations while providing the interoperability, scalability, and flexibility needed for long-term growth.

“With ASPIRE, we gain a platform that allows us to scale efficiently, streamline processes, and continue delivering the exceptional service our clients expect,” said Alissa Brasey, Senior Vice President of Operational Accounting, Summit Funding Group. “Partnering with LTi provides us with a trusted, strategic technology partner who shares our focus on operational excellence and future growth.”

A Partnership Built for Performance
Through advanced workflow automation, real-time reporting, and configurable architecture, ASPIRE enables Summit to increase speed-to-market, reduce manual effort, and strengthen data visibility across every business line.

“Summit’s decision to implement ASPIRE demonstrates their commitment to leveraging technology as a driver of business performance,” said Tara Aasand, Vice President of Sales & Relationship Management, LTi Technology Solutions. “Our shared focus on precision, automation, and client success aligns perfectly with LTi’s vision for transforming how equipment finance companies operate and grow, supported by a partner with deep industry experience and a long-term commitment to client success.”

A Future-Ready Equipment Finance Solution
Built on more than three decades of deep industry experience, LTi’s ASPIRE platform empowers lenders and lessors to digitally transform operations, optimize decision-making, and increase efficiency at every stage of the transaction lifecycle. By adopting ASPIRE, Summit gains a proven solution designed to accelerate productivity, strengthen compliance, and support its continued market leadership.

About LTi Technology Solutions
For more than three decades, LTi Technology Solutions has been a trusted partner delivering full lifecycle lease and loan finance solutions for equipment finance companies, captives, independents, and banks across the U.S., UK, and Canada. Headquartered in Omaha, NE, LTi empowers clients with the ASPIRE platform, a highly configurable system designed to streamline the transaction lifecycle, enhance compliance, and accelerate growth at scale.

Backed by comprehensive interfaces and flexible architecture, ASPIRE enables organizations to integrate core systems, strengthen data transparency, and optimize decision-making across the entire asset finance lifecycle.

LTi is proud to be the ecosystem of choice for top-tier organizations, including 40% of the Monitor 100, 54% of the Independents 30, 35% of the Vendor 40, and 38% of the Bank 50.

With a legacy built on Precision, Performance, and Partnership, LTi Technology Solutions continues to power the next generation of equipment finance leaders.

For more information visit www.ltisolutions.com.

About Summit Funding Group
For over 30 years, Summit Funding Group has delivered creative, flexible, and efficient equipment leasing and financing solutions to businesses across the United States. With more than $6.5 billion in originations and over $1.3 billion in assets under management, Summit combines the expertise and agility of a boutique institution with the financial strength and stability of a bank. Through trusted relationships and innovative funding solutions, Summit enables its clients to grow with confidence.

Visit https://summit-funding.com/ for more information.

News Briefs

Trump suggests Iran voiced nuclear ambitions
    during unsuccessful diplomatic talks
https://edition.cnn.com/world/live-news/iran-war-us-israel-trump-03-09-26

Trump Advisers Urge Him to Find Iran Exit Ramp
    Fearing Political Backlash
https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/trump-advisers-urge-him-to-find-iran-exit-ramp-fearing-political-backlash-562fef1e?st=NPhQQV&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink

Where in the US have gas prices jumped the most
    since the US attack on Iran?
https://sherwood.news/markets/where-in-the-us-have-gas-prices-jumped-the-most-since-the-us-attack-on-iran/

 

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 Volkswagen Group Has Delivered 4 Million
    All-Electric Vehicles Since 2013
https://www.wsj.com/business/autos/volkswagen-group-has-delivered-4-million-all-electric-vehicles-since-2013-becfe757?mod=business_feat4_autos_pos5

U.S. Automakers Risk Being Reduced to
    Niche Producers of Gas Vehicles
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/03/business/ford-gm-ev-self-driving-cars-china.html

Amtrak Is Revamping Its Run-Down Fleet
  ' Check Out the New Trains.
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/13/travel/amtrak-new-train-airo.html

U.S. Employers Cut Jobs in Sign of a Shakier Economy
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2026/03/06/business/jobs-report-economy

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Sports Briefs

Kansas City Chiefs sign Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker moments after Travis Kelce news
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/money/other/kansas-city-chiefs-make-massive-statement-by-signing-super-bowl-mvp-moments-after-travis-kelce-news/ar-AA1XQwH7

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California News Briefs

This hip L.A. neighborhood is installing emergency
 sirens to warn of ICE raids
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-03-05/ice-siren-la-activists

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Gimme that Wine

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJnQoi8DSE8

Chef Charlie Palmer’s Pigs and Pinot returns to Healdsburg
https://www.pressdemocrat.com/2026/02/24/chef-charlie-palmers-pigs-and-pinot-returns-to-healdsburg/

Sonoma Sips Is Back With $15 Wine Tasting Specials
https://www.sonomamag.com/sonoma-sips-is-back-with-15-wine-tasting-specials/

Canadians are drinking less, driving the biggest
    drop in alcohol sales in 20 years: StatsCan
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/alcohol-sales-drop-canada-9.7117257

The Most Wanted Chardonnays of 2026
https://www.wine-searcher.com/m/2026/03/the-most-wanted-chardonnays-of-2026

Russians destroy historic 19th-century Ukrainian winery
https://www.hudin.com/russians-destroy-historic-19th-century-ukrainian-winery/