2024 Monitor Top Women in Equipment Finance: Amy Lewis, Vice President of Operations, KLC Financial

by Monitor Staff Nov/Dec 2024
“Every step you take paves the way for future women in the industry. Your fresh ideas and unique perspective are invaluable. Stay curious, build your network, seek mentorship and embrace continuous learning. Never underestimate your potential. Your determination can inspire future generations. Stand tall, be bold and keep pushing boundaries!"
Amy Lewis
Vice President of Operations
KLC Financial

Amy Lewis serves as the vice president of operations at KLC Financial, where she leverages her 25 years of expertise in equipment finance and leasing to drive operational excellence and strategic growth. Lewis is known for her dynamic approach to operational management, customer-centric problem-solving and leadership. Her role at KLC encompasses a broad range of responsibilities, including overseeing day-to-day operations, policy development, risk management and the nurturing of a collaborative and growth-oriented environment.

One of Lewis’ standout accomplishments at KLC has been the successful implementation of a new operating system, a transformative project that streamlined the company’s internal processes. Lewis also established the account servicing support team, further demonstrating her ability to recognize organizational needs and implement forward-thinking solutions.

Beyond technological enhancements, Lewis’ contributions to policy development and risk management have been pivotal in ensuring that KLC operates in alignment with its strategic goals. She plays an active role in shaping the company’s policies, always with a keen eye on balancing operational efficiency with exceptional client service.

Her leadership is characterized by a hands on approach to team development; Lewis is known for fostering a positive, inclusive workplace culture. She prioritizes hiring and cultivating top talent, encouraging professional growth and collaboration across her teams. Lewis’ colleagues frequently highlight her mentorship abilities and her unwavering dedication to the success of those around her.

Lewis’ unique leadership style is anchored in her genuine concern for her organization, her team and the community KLC serves. She demonstrates emotional intelligence and exceptional conflict-resolution skills, which have helped her guide her teams through challenges with a steady and thoughtful approach. Colleagues regard Lewis as a strong role model, and her influence is seen as an inspiration to future leaders.

“Amy Lewis offers a unique blend of operational expertise and leadership to our industry,” Spencer Thomas, CEO of KLC Financial, says. “Her skill in implementing complex systems and building high-performing teams has not only enhanced KLC’s internal processes, but also improved the customer service experience. Recently, under her leadership, we successfully launched a new system to establish our account servicing department. This transition to in-house servicing has been seamless, directly benefiting our clients by optimizing their interactions with us.”

In addition to her professional achievements, Lewis has made significant contributions to her community through both leadership and volunteer efforts. She is a dedicated participant in industry panels and plays an active role in charitable initiatives, including organizing KLC’s participation in the Wreaths Across America event at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Under her guidance, KLC raised more than $9,000 for educational programs benefiting a local nonprofit in Minneapolis and contributed nearly 600 pounds of food to the Intercongregation Communities Association during a company-wide food drive.

Lewis’ mission is centered on fostering inclusivity, operational excellence and continuous improvement. She believes creating a culture of appreciation and involvement within her organization leads to higher levels of performance, as people feel motivated to contribute their best ideas and efforts. Her focus on streamlining processes and adopting best practices not only increases productivity, but ensures that KLC maintains its customer-first approach.

“Amy Lewis brings a wealth of experience to KLC, having applied best practices from large organizations in a way that’s tailored to KLC’s needs,” Jeffrey Bilbrey, CEO of Leasepath, says. “Her leadership in transforming business operations — implementing new front-office tech and insourcing back-office servicing — has driven impressive efficiency and customer service excellence, all while fostering collaboration and continuous improvement.” •

Leave a comment

No categories available

No tags available