A lifelong dedication to volunteering and innovation, shaping the future of equipment finance.
For more than four decades, Dave Schaefer has been a foundational pillar of the equipment finance industry, not only as an entrepreneur but as a dedicated volunteer who profoundly shaped its direction. While his formal title has evolved from founder and CEO of Orion First to an advisor for its acquirer, Concord Servicing, his legacy is deeply rooted in a lifetime of selfless service and leadership. It’s a testament to his character that when asked about his proudest achievement, he immediately points to his extensive volunteer work and the opportunities it provided to influence the industry positively.
Schaefer’s commitment to the industry is a masterclass in giving back, a philosophy he champions as a cornerstone of professional life. He began by serving on the Western Association of Equipment Lessors board, which later evolved into the United Association of Equipment Leasing. His contributions quickly led him to the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association where he served on the Small Ticket Business Council Steering Committee, eventually chairing the group. This work was a launch pad for a distinguished tenure on the ELFA Board of Directors where he played a pivotal role in charting the course for the industry.
His work on the board extended beyond meetings, as he became a mentor for emerging leaders and a vocal advocate for critical industry initiatives. His strategic guidance during crucial periods helped to solidify the association’s influence and prepare it for future challenges. This enduring impact on ELFA’s strategic direction is one of the hallmarks of his legacy. His journey from an engaged volunteer to a respected leader within ELFA highlights a career built on a deep commitment to the community he helped build and sustain. He saw these volunteer roles as an opportunity to positively influence the industry and ensure its longevity.
As a businessman, Schaefer’s impact is equally profound. He built Orion First into a respected and successful player in the market. His business acumen is not confined to finance; in his personal life, he continues to build and is helping his son to grow a successful residential construction business. This ongoing drive to create and contribute speaks volumes about his character, showing that his passion for building extends beyond the professional sphere. His leadership style is defined by humility and a deep appreciation for others, particularly his wife and business partner, whom he credits for working even harder than he did.
Upon learning of this award, Schaefer was genuinely humbled, saying for him, the greatest rewards have been in the work itself, the bonds he forged and the respect of his peers. •
“I ALWAYS SUPPORTED THE INDUSTRY BY VOLUNTEERING. THAT WAS A BIG PART OF WHAT I DID… AND THAT LED TO OPPORTUNITIES TO INFLUENCE THE DIRECTION OF THE INDUSTRY. IT’S REALLY ALL ABOUT GIVING BACK AND BEING AN ACTIVE PART OF THE COMMUNITY.”
