With its first appearance in the Monitor 101, Milestone Bank marks a milestone driven by a culture of integrity, innovation and customer-first execution. CEO Gary Harding shares the strategic moves, leadership principles and future plans driving the bank’s growth in a competitive equipment finance market.
Milestone Bank’s first appearance in the Monitor 101 marks more than a ranking — it’s a recognition of years of thoughtful execution, deep industry roots and a culture grounded in relationships and integrity. For CEO Gary Harding and his team, it’s also fuel for the next stage of growth.
Harding expresses his gratitude to the bank’s customers and for being featured by Monitor, explaining how it is a reflection of the care and consistency that their team brings to every part of the business. “One of our core values is ‘relationships first’ — whether that means working through difficult credit or documentation questions or outlining growth and training opportunities for our team members,” Harding says. That people-first mindset, he notes, is a core value and a key differentiator in a crowded financial landscape.
Milestone’s path to the Monitor 101 was shaped by legacy and focus. Building on the foundation of Lease Corporation of America, the bank drew on its strong experience in equipment finance and small business lending to deliver standout service. Strategic advantages — including a seasoned investor base, exceptional team and a relentless commitment to customer experience — have powered its growth, particularly in middle-market leasing and SBA 7(a) lending.
At the core of that momentum is Harding’s leadership philosophy, grounded in collaborative discovery and a deep commitment to integrity. “These values aren’t just words to us; they guide how we lead internally and how we show up for our customers,” he explains.
Even within the framework of a traditional bank, innovation thrives at Milestone. The team stays agile by engaging customer feedback, analyzing performance data and prioritizing initiatives that deliver real impact. Amid shifting macro conditions — from rising rates to tariffs and global uncertainty — Harding emphasizes resilience and responsiveness.
Looking ahead, Milestone aims to grow steadily while expanding into areas like warehouse lending and asset-based finance. His advice for others eyeing the Monitor rankings? “Listen to your customers — they’ll show you where the real opportunities are … and stay humble.” For Harding and his team, collaboration, integrity and forward momentum remain the keys to long-term success. •
“The goal isn’t to chase every innovation — it’s to adopt the ones that truly move the needle for the people we serve.”
– Gary Harding. CEO, Milestone Bank
