In an origin that is true for many in the equipment finance industry, Jack Elenbaas fell into equipment finance on a whim. “I started my journey as an underwriter, but through dedication to the business, collaboration with industry leaders and a commitment to continuous improvement, I moved into a supervisory role and subsequently the credit manager role,” Elenbaas says. “Today, my role is focused on organizational growth by leading our small-ticket underwriting team, mitigating credit and enterprise risks and developing top-tier talent.”

As a young leader, Elenbaas embraces vulnerability while keeping his focus on driving innovation and efficiency throughout Crossroads Equipment Finance’s footprint. There are three things that differentiate a manager from a leader, Elenbaas explains: trust, curiosity and innovation. “As I embark on my leadership journey, I’ve focused on building trust with my colleagues at all levels in the organization,” Elenbaas says. “I trust my direct reports to rely on their expertise while trusting those above me to lead our business into the future. As a leader, you should stay curious and always be open to learn, whether it be a new skill or a different way of thinking. Lastly, a leader will always embrace change and innovation, regardless of the unknowns.”

Elenbaas says there is no feeling greater than seeing those you’ve mentored move up within an organization. Everyone defines success differently, but Elenbaas says success is determined by seeing those around you grow, learn and thrive in challenging environments. Having so many mentors help pave his way to success, Elenbaas is eager to pay it forward by embracing innovative and unconventional thinking.

“I attribute my success to the accomplishments of my teammates,” Elenbaas says. “With their continued support, collaborative mindset and commitment to excellence, we have been able to accomplish the unthinkable. I am truly grateful to work alongside such talented individuals.”