At Wintrust Commercial Finance, Riley Nemeth keeps his thumb on the pulse of various markets to accurately set residuals and remarket off-lease and repossessed assets. As an active member in the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association, the ASA and a graduate of STRIPES Leadership Program, Nemeth has been fortunate to work alongside industry leaders who have served as mentors and contributed to his personal and professional growth. Nemeth’s equipment background in construction and working for a global equipment auction company has given him a unique perspective and understanding of the industry. As an active person in the industry, Nemeth makes sure to keep a balance between work and life.

Having a healthy work life balance is more possible than ever, Nemeth says, if you set boundaries and maintain them. He believes technology has helped create a work environment that allows employees to have more onus over their professional lives and schedules. “My advice would be to prioritize what is most important to you and to have an open line of communication with your company and your family to ensure you are being fulfilled and that you are bringing your best self to the workplace every day,” Nemeth says.

Spending his spare time building furniture, garden planters and wooden flags, Nemeth makes sure to have an outlet away from the daily grind. The asset manager for Wintrust Commercial Finance started woodworking about four years ago and values having alone time to challenge himself with these complex projects. The outlet allows him to focus his energy and creativity, which helps him come back to work more focused and productive in his professional career.

“While no two people will have the same needs for a healthy balance, setting professional and personal goals can help set you up for success,” Nemeth says.