Kristi Darlington followed in her father’s footsteps in the equipment finance industry in 2009, just after her father, Dan Hauff, landed instaCOVER’s first account and asked for her assistance. As the founder of instaCOVER, Hauff knew he could count on Darlington to jump in head first, learn the business and work her way up in a predominately male industry. Darlington was intimidated at first, but she knew there was no better way to learn and to grow than to become involved.

Now, those around Darlington regard her as an exceptional leader who has made a tremendous impact on the industry with her larger-than-life personality and influence that spans well beyond the clients and people she supports. Her team looks up to her for guidance and encouragement, and Darlington leads them by example.

As the senior business developer at insta- COVER, Darlington’s primary responsibility is to bring on new clients and build those relationships within the industry. Darlington’s success comes from hard work and dedication. She works closely with her team to enhance products and services that bring value to the company. She is also responsible for new product development and sales strategies.

“InstaCOVER revolutionized the insurance coverage sector of equipment finance, and Kristi has been there since day one. Kristi’s expert knowledge of insurance requirements, coverages and exclusions as well as thorough understanding of how it relates to the equipment finance industry have had tremendous benefits to our company,” Theresa Kabot, owner of K2 Funding Group, says. “Kristi understands both sides and accomplishes everyone’s goals. She is consistently trying to further simplify and streamline instaCOVER products and processes. Our company has been able to close additional business due to her varied coverage offerings and superior customer service. Everyone who works with Kristi knows she has a charming can-do attitude and is an absolute pleasure to work with. We can all agree it is much more fun to enjoy the people with whom you work and trust, which is also one of the reasons why Kristi is an invaluable member of instaCOVER and the equipment finance industry.”

Darlington has served on numerous committees, including the American Association of Commercial Finance Brokers and National Equipment Finance Association. In 2020, she chaired the annual AACFB conference in Las Vegas. She has also served on many panels as a speaker during those conferences.

Working closely with her customers is one of the things Darlington values most about her job. She is very dedicated to building relationships and passionate about helping her customers grow to achieve their success. Her strong relationships with customers have been key in garnering the feedback instaCOVER needs to ensure its products will meet customers’ needs long term. Darlington finds it very rewarding to have watched insta- COVER grow from the very beginning, thanks in part to her attributions.

Darlington is passionate about building relationships within the finance industry, especially with other women in leadership roles, and sharing knowledge with her peers. She looks forward to traveling throughout the year and attending conferences not only to network and meet new people, but to catch up with her peers that she considers family within the industry.

“Be seen and be heard. Step out of your comfort zone, ask questions, attend events, join committees and most of all have fun and be confident and people will be drawn too you.”