AP Equipment Financing, a Tokyo Century company, has been a leader in the equipment finance industry since 1998. Beyond its innovative solutions in leasing and financing, AP stands out for its exceptional company culture, which has become a cornerstone of its identity and success. Central to AP’s culture are the “AP House Rules,” a set of 11 guiding principles collaboratively created by employees and leadership. These rules emphasize open communication, empathy, professionalism and respect for time and processes. Key tenets like “Our Workplace is a Drama-Free Zone” and “We Communicate Openly, Kindly, Efficiently and Effectively” foster a positive and collaborative environment. The House Rules remain unchanged since their inception eight years ago, showcasing their enduring relevance and impact.
The Culture Committee: Fostering Connection in a Remote World
The Culture Committee, a voluntary team of departmental ambassadors, plays a vital role in implementing and sustaining AP’s culture. By organizing virtual events like “Coffee with Colleagues” and happy hours, they ensure employees — many of whom work remotely — feel connected and engaged. Their mission is to cultivate an environment where employees are excited to work, embracing change while fostering camaraderie.
Transparency in Action: Town Halls and Open Dialogue
AP promotes transparency through quarterly Town Hall meetings where employees receive updates on company goals, new hires and progress. Anonymously submitted employee questions ensure that concerns are addressed openly. Monthly newsletters from the Culture Committee further strengthen communication by highlighting important updates and achievements. Recognizing the importance of employee well-being, AP encourages work-life balance and has embraced a remote work model. This flexibility allows employees to recharge while fostering productivity. Leadership also maintains strong connections with remote employees through regular visits to satellite offices and open communication channels.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the Core
AP prioritizes DE&I by creating a supportive environment where diverse perspectives are celebrated. Inclusive hiring practices, cross-functional collaboration and regular training programs ensure all employees feel valued and empowered. Initiatives like the Women’s Leadership Program underscore AP’s dedication to equity and representation.
Fueling Growth: Professional Development and Recognition
AP supports professional growth through educational reimbursement programs, industry certifications, and leadership training. Recognition is equally integral, with initiatives like Employee of the Quarter awards, monthly newsletters celebrating milestones and the prestigious annual “Rock Star Award” for outstanding performance. AP thrives on innovation, encouraging employees to propose ideas and learn from failures through a “fail-fast, fail-forward” philosophy.
Innovating Through Feedback and Resilience
Feedback from customers is equally valued, with Net Promoter Scores consistently exceeding industry benchmarks — a testament to AP’s commitment to continuous improvement. Community involvement is woven into AP’s culture. The company provides paid volunteer hours and organizes team-wide community service events, reinforcing the importance of making a positive impact while fostering teamwork.
Adapting to Change While Preserving Core Values
AP’s culture has evolved alongside its transition to a predominantly remote workforce. Despite the shift, its core values — collaboration, accountability and excellence — remain steadfast, demonstrating adaptability without compromising on foundational principles.
In the words of Chris Enbom, CLFP, CEO of AP Equipment Financing: “Creating a professional, positive culture was a vital part of our success. The rules were written by employees of all levels and agreed upon by all. Culture, more than strategy or capital, is the backbone of a great company.”
Through intentional actions, consistent values and an unwavering commitment to its people, AP Equipment Financing exemplifies what it means to be a cultural leader in the equipment finance industry.
