Since its founding in April 2015, Wintrust Commercial Finance (WCF), a division of Wintrust Asset Finance, has generated more than $3 billion in funded and managed volume, leading to a CAGR of 30.5%.

“When we started WCF, we knew that the immediate path to growth was through the capital markets,” Kirk Phillips, president and CEO of Wintrust Commercial Finance, said. “In the six years since our inception, we have successfully shifted new business volume from being fully driven by capital markets to a mix of indirect and direct originations, both of which are critical to our continued success. We consider ourselves very fortunate to have found a strong sponsor in Wintrust who allows us to conduct our business in an entrepreneurial culture. As a result, we like to refer to ourselves as a ‘bank-owned leasing company’ versus a leasing arm of a bank, an important distinction.”

WCF recently close a $27.2 million term loan to a plastics-industry customer looking to expand its manufacturing capabilities, which was originated via the direct sales channel, and a $34 million lease for marine assets that was generated with one of WCF’s capital markets customers.

“WCF remains committed to servicing the needs of its capital markets partners while also driving its direct originations channel,” Tom Forbes, executive vice president and chief sales officer for Wintrust Commercial Finance, said. “To that end, we have established three distinct geographic regions — east, central and west — and are focused on expanding each region with continued strategic hires to the sales team.”

WCF is further committed to the professional development of its existing workforce, encouraging employees to seek development opportunities, with many participating in educational programs, including e-learning certificate programs with institutions of higher learning such as Cornell University, professional development programs hosted by the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association and leadership training through STRIPES Leadership Program.