“This business is all about trust and genuine relationships. Listen thoroughly, be responsive and thoughtful, and you’ll build the trust of internal and external partners to get the most out of yourself and the business.”

For Spencer Ellison, vice president of capital markets at Capteris Capital, the allure of the equipment finance industry lies in the tangible impact of it’s solutions on clients. From food processing and healthcare to the newer equipment types such as GPUs and EV infrastructure, Ellison thrives on the fact that no two days are the same. That variety, he says, is what keeps the work energizing and ensures there is always something new to learn.

The past 18 months marked a pivotal shift in Ellison’s career as he transitioned from the traditional banking sector to the independent, private credit world. Banks have long
dominated equipment finance, so the move to Capteris brought new challenges and plenty of unknowns. Since joining, Ellison has leaned on the firm’s top-tier management team to build out his knowledge of the independent space, while contributing his own expertise in return. This experience reinforces his core approach to problem-solving: stay open-minded, listen carefully and meet every “what’s next” head-on.

Ellison defines his leadership through communication, adaptability and decisive action. He believes that thorough listening and clear communication across business functions deliver best-in-class execution for clients and investors. Ellison finds it crucial to adapt to new processes, technology and business initiatives to operate efficiently and keep the path forward clear. Artificial intelligence, he notes, has already changed how his team conducts research and responds to partners. By remaining decisive, Ellison helps keep his team moving toward the finish line without wasted time or the confusion of “who’s on first?”