Dondra Benjamin is a veteran of specialty finance who currently serves as the VP, Commercial Operations Leader of EverBank’s Vendor Equipment Finance Team. Through her exemplary leadership and proven track record, Benjamin has established herself as an asset to any organization. During her more than 25 years as an equipment finance career professional, Benjamin has lent her expertise and keen eye for detail to organizations like AT&T Credit, Truist and Accenture. At each organization, she prioritized maximizing overall efficiency and was instrumental in automating several key processes.
In her current tenure at EverBank, Benjamin has overseen the strategic overhaul and optimization of the equipment finance division’s account management department. She has spearheaded the streamlining of key internal processes, slashed turnaround times and bolstered crucial skills and team-based initiatives, resulting in significantly higher client satisfaction rates. Additionally, Benjamin serves as a mentor for emerging leaders within EverBank’s equipment finance team, helping them develop skills and a mindset that will allow them to excel both individually and as part of a team unit.
Over her years of experience in equipment finance, Benjamin has held a variety of roles, including as an individual contributor and as a leader who sets an example for her team. Benjamin routinely draws upon all her past roles and responsibilities to dutifully oversee all aspects of lease and loan processing, booking and lease funding – all to facilitate the institution’s exponential growth.
As a VP of Operations at EverBank, Benjamin’s current priorities are automating business processes and improving the account management department’s most critical operational processes. Through the execution of these plans, she has caused a spike in employee and team morale, multiplied EverBank’s account management operations workforce and is responsible for an environment built on extensive training, succession planning and professional growth. “Dondra brings a wealth of experience, a keen intellect and a proactive approach that is invaluable to our organization and the equipment finance industry as a whole,” says Kim Montgomery, SVP, Healthcare Originations Leader at EverBank. “She embraces challenges with enthusiasm, collaborates effectively with other subject matter experts to achieve exceptional outcomes.
One of Benjamin’s greatest passions is advancing women within organizations like EverBank. Benjamin is a stalwart champion of opportunities for women to expand their professional networks, take initiative on new projects, and speak up in the room when important decisions are being deliberated. “I have had the opportunity to coach and mentor many of the women on my team,” says Benjamin. “They are the true inspiration for building a legacy and inspiring others long after my time.”
Benjamin’s creative aptitude and passion for outreach and mission-focused teamwork extend far outside her tenure at EverBank. In her spare time, she is a home baker specializing in cakes and other treats. She also dedicates a significant amount of time to non-profit and philanthropic efforts, serving as a Vice Chair at a cultural arts program and volunteering regularly as a member of her local church. Whether through her effective, well-structured business strategies, dutiful volunteerism or inspiring young women in the professional sphere, Benjamin’s dedication to uplifting others has made her a standout figure in the equipment finance space and beyond.
“Three tips for the next generation of women: First, seek opportunities for greater responsibility. As women we tend not to pursue opportunities if we are not a perfect match, while our male colleagues push forward without hesitation. Next, identify a mentor and trusted advisor. Finally, build your network!”
– Dondra Benjamin
