For nearly two decades, Monica Harper has served as the Executive Director of the American Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (AACFB), formerly known as the National Association of Equipment Leasing Brokers. With 17 years in the role, Harper has become a steady and inclusive force, blending her expertise in association management with a focus on cultivating relationships that strengthen the commercial finance community.
Harper’s professional journey began at FSA Management Group, where she started as Director of Member Services. From there, she advanced through a series of roles that sharpened her skills in event planning, membership development, sponsorship sales, financial oversight, board relations and volunteer coordination. These experiences prepared her to step into executive leadership, where her holistic approach to management continues to define her tenure.
Under Harper’s direction, AACFB has navigated industry and economic shifts with resilience. She has collaborated closely with volunteers to reinforce the association’s financial foundation, grow its networks and deliver educational programming that supports members at every stage of their business. Through challenges such as the Great Recession, Harper’s leadership kept AACFB focused on its mission while her commitment to inclusivity helped pave the way for 11 women to serve as board presidents, a number that continues to grow.
Recognition of her contributions has been widespread. In 2019, Leasing News named her Leasing Person of the Year, and in 2022, she received the AACFB President’s Award for outstanding service. Most recently, Harper launched a partnership between AACFB and Equipment Finance Cares, creating fundraising and philanthropic opportunities that connect members while supporting meaningful causes. From private concerts with members of Foreigner to charity cruises, her event planning expertise has amplified the impact of these efforts.
Colleagues highlight Harper’s steady presence as a hallmark of her leadership. Tony Butler, President of FSA Management Group, says, “I have had the privilege of working alongside Monica for more than 25 years and have witnessed firsthand the profound impact she has had on the AACFB and its members. She has been the glue, guiding the organization with a steady hand through both a recession and a pandemic — navigating difficult situations with compassion and genuine caring for the industry and the members the association serves.”
Harper also provides guidance for emerging women in the industry. “Be bold enough to ask for a seat at the table. Be observant and learn from those currently in leadership positions. Don’t be afraid to have difficult conversations, and do so with confidence. Lead with generosity. Offer your knowledge freely and always uphold your integrity.”
Her mission remains clear: to strengthen and elevate the commercial finance community through connection, education and opportunity. As she looks to the future, Harper’s career continues to build on a legacy of resilience, collaboration and impact, leaving the industry stronger, more inclusive and better prepared for what comes next.
“Be bold enough to ask for a seat at the table. Be observant and learn from those currently in leadership positions. Don’t be afraid to have difficult conversations, and do so with confidence. Lead with generosity. Offer your knowledge freely and always uphold your integrity.”
– Monica Harper
