Lesley Farmer has built her career on a foundation of relationships, results and resilience. As a Senior Business Development leader at KLC Financial, she is widely respected for her ability to pair deep industry knowledge with a genuine passion for helping clients and partners thrive. With more than 20 years in the industry, she has become a trusted advisor to vendors, bankers and business owners across diverse sectors.
Farmer’s journey in finance began with a fascination for how businesses sustain growth through strategic capital decisions. Over the years, she has honed expertise in structuring creative financing solutions that balance client goals with sound financial practices. At KLC Financial, Farmer has played a central role in expanding vendor programs, strengthening long-term client relationships and driving year-over-year growth. She is recognized not only for her consistent performance but also for her commitment to integrity and the long-term success of those she serves.
Her ability to cultivate partnerships with high-profile clients — including Sky Zone, Slick City and Albatross Entertainment — speaks to the trust Farmer has earned throughout her career. By fostering strong connections with bankers, attorneys, CPAs and private equity professionals, she has positioned herself as a connector who delivers win-win outcomes. Vendor partners often cite her dedication as a deciding factor in their choice to work with KLC, underscoring her impact on the firm’s reputation and growth.
In the past year, Farmer has led initiatives that strengthened vendor sales pipelines and streamlined financing processes for dealers and franchise owners. Her leadership has helped partners close more deals and improve customer satisfaction, advancing KLC’s role as not just a financing provider, but a collaborative partner attuned to the market place’s evolving needs. She is also admired for her approachable leadership style, where collaboration and open communication empower teams to achieve more together.
Spencer Thomas, CEO, KLC Financial, says, “Lesley has a rare ability to combine deep industry expertise with genuine relationships that drive results. One of our vendor partners recently said they only trust KLC because of Lesley’s commitment to doing what’s best for their customers. She represents the heart of what makes this industry thrive.”
Beyond her professional role, Farmer is committed to the broader finance and local communities. She serves on the boards of the Risk Management Association of Minnesota (RMA) and the Turnaround Management Association of Minnesota (TMA), where she mentors younger professionals and contributes to shaping the industry’s future. Equally passionate about her community, she coaches volleyball at Edina High School and girls’ youth flag football, channeling her leadership and mentorship skills into empowering the next generation of athletes.
A Certified Lease & Finance Professional (CLFP), Farmer is known for her authenticity, persistence and collaborative spirit. Her legacy is not only defined by measurable achievements but also by the way she lifts others along the way. Whether guiding clients, colleagues or young athletes, she is driven by a mission to empower people to pursue their goals with confidence and resilience.
“Don’t be afraid to lead with authenticity and persistence. Success in this industry isn’t just about transactions, it’s about building meaningful relationships that last. Stay curious, resilient and willing to learn — and know that your unique perspective can help shape the future of equipment finance.”
– Lesley Farmer
