New Hires/Promotions in the Leasing Business
and Related Industries

Marissa Bazarian was hired as Senior Vice President, Operations,  Fox Ridge Capital, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. She is located in Greater Boston, Massachusetts. Previously, she was Vice President Operations, First Citizens Bank (June, 2022 – April, 2026); AVP, Operations, CIT, (November, 2021 –
July, 2022), Funding Team Supervisor (May, 2020 – July, 2022); Funding Manager, Direct Capital Corporation (June, 2015 – May, 2020). Full Bio:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marissa-bazarian-bb05347b/details/experience/
www.linkedin.com/in/marissa-bazarian-bb05347b/

Tatum Noreen, CLFP, Oakmont Capital Services - JA Mitsui Leasing Group (Jan 2021 – Present) was promoted to Sales Manager (Apr 2026 – Present). Previouisly was Inside Sales Manager (May 2023 – Apr 2026), Inside Sales Supervisor (Nov 2022 – Jul 2023), Client Account Manager (Jan 2021 – Feb 2023); Stearns Bank N.A. (Aug 2015 – Jan 2021), Client Relations Representative Lead (May 2018 – Jan 2021), Client Relations (Feb 2016 – May 2018), Credit Analyst (Aug 2015 – Feb 2016)

Jim Wall was promoted to Director of Sales, Healthcare at PEAC Solutions, Mount Laurel New Jersey, where he is also located. He joined PEAC as Program Manager, National Accounts, September, 2021, promoted Sales Manager, Healthcare & Fitness (July, 2022 – April, 2026). He was at Marlin Capital Solutions, starting as Senior Business Development Manager, November, 2006, promoted Team
Lead November, 2018, promoted Strategic Account Manager (December, 2020 -  September, 2021). Prior at Horizon-Keystone Financial, starting as Program Manager, November, 2006, promoted Vice President (November, 2006 – December, 2016); Account Executive, Citicorp (February, 2004 – November, 2006).
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-wall-sam/

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CLFP Foundation Welcome 15 New CLFPs
With Photos

The Certified Lease & Finance Professional (CLFP) Foundation is proud to announce that 15 individuals have recently earned their CLFP designation after successfully passing the online proctored CLFP Exam. The newest CLFPs represent a wide range of companies and roles across the equipment finance industry, reflecting a shared commitment to professional excellence and ethical standards.

They are:

George Arida, CLFP
Sr. Financial Credit Analyst, Beacon Funding Corporation

Lisa Denney, CLFP
Manager Loan Operations Accounting, VP, Zions Bancorporation N.A.

Robert Dubow, CLFP
Vice President, Business Development, Beacon Funding Corporation

Perry Grothen, CLFP
Senior Accountant, Geneva Capital, LLC

Amber Guthrie, CLFP
Vice President/ Director LEAF Credit Underwriting, LEAF Commercial Capital Inc.

Nicholas Heins, CLFP Associate
Senior Credit Manager, Targeted Lending Co., LLC

Zachary Herman, CLFP
Assistant Vice President, Sales, LEAF Commercial Capital Inc.


Joshua Johnson, CLFP
VP, Senior Business Development Manager, Customers Commercial Finance, LLC

Nicholas Lionello, CLFP
Sr. Business Development Consultant, Beacon Funding Corporation

Aaron Rustebakke, CLFP
Sales Operations, Beacon Funding Corporation

Ryan Sabatke, CLFP
Associate Manager, Financing Services, Stryker

Megan Stermon, CLFP
Finance Coordinator, Approve

Jennifer Travaglini, CLFP
Senior Contract Specialist, Auxilior Capital Partners, Inc.

Sarah Wreschinsky, CLFP Associate
Funding Manager, Beacon Funding Corporation

Hannah Wright, CLFP
Senior Finance Specialist, Stryker

Megan Stermon shares, “At my company, Approve, we really are like family. We encourage each other to push for growth both personally and professionally, and we genuinely love the work we are doing. When the opportunity was presented for me to pursue the CLFP designation, it was an easy decision for me. While the process to complete and receive the designation did not come easily, it was an opportunity that I am so grateful for.

“I have clearer insight of the industry as a whole and of the products I am connecting with customers about. I have a deeper respect for our lending partners, and for my colleagues who have also earned their CLFP letters. I am so grateful to now be a part of this community!”

The CLFP designation represents the highest standard of knowledge and integrity in equipment finance, uniting professionals who are committed to advancing the industry through excellence and continued learning. There are currently Certified Lease & Finance Professionals and Associates located throughout the United States (including Puerto Rico), Canada, India, Pakistan, Africa, New Zealand, and Australia. For more information, please visit www.CLFPFoundation.org

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CLFP Foundation Classes
2026

April 21 – 22, 2026
Channel, Public, In Person
Minnetonka, Minnesota

May 11 – 12, 2026
CoBank, Private-in-Person, ALFP

June 2 – 3, 2026
In-Person, ALFP Hosted

June 8 – June 10
Hosted by US Bank Equipment, Online, Public, ALFP

July 9 – 10
Public, Virtual ALFP

September 10 – 11
In-Person, Private ALFP Hosted

September 15 – 16
In-Person, Public ALFP Hosted

CLFP has both a Certified Lease & Financial Professionals Handbook and an audio version.
Begin Your CLFP Journey - https://clfpfoundation.org/clfp-journey

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Major Finance/Leasing Associations Conferences

May 5—May 7
American Association of Commercial Finance Brokers
Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista, Disney Springs, Orlando, Florida

Whether you’re coming for the education, networking, or to strengthen existing relationships, staying at the conference hotel enhances the full AACFB experience.

Plus - the Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista is just steps away from the Disney Springs entertainment district and offers free shuttles to all four Disney Theme Parks! 
Room Rate: $219 per night plus a $25 resort fee 
Cut-off Date: April 20, 2026 
Resort Fee Includes:

• Guestroom high speed wireless internet access
• Shuttle transportation to/from Disney World Theme Parks
• DVDNow movie rentals
• Two (2) bottled waters daily
• $5.00 discount on one attraction ticket from concierge desk
• 50% off golf rentals at Disney Golf Courses

Reserve your room today and check one more thing off your conference to-do list.

Golf Tournament at the  Shingle Creek Golf Club on May 5. You will need to register by Wednesday, April 28. The fee to play is $225 per person.

The Women in Finance Luncheon will be held on May 5 from noon to 1:30 pm at the Planet Hollywood Restaurant. The cost is $50 per person.

Leasing News coverage by Vicki Shimkus, CLFP, Leasing News Advisory Board, Finance, Brokers Relationship Manager, Ameris Bank Equipment

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June 1
DeBanked Broker Fair
Returns to NYC June 1, 2026, after 1,100 Turn-Out in Miami
https://debanked.com/2026/03/broker-fair-returns-to-new-york-city-june-1-2026/

Don Cosenza, CLFP,  Senior Vice President, Maxim  Commercial Capital, will cover the conference for Leasing News readers

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September 15th - 16th
Brokers Expo, New York City
https://thefundersforumbrokerexpo.com/ny/

Edward Castagna, CEO, InPlace Auction will be covering the Brokers Expo

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September 28—30, NEFA Fall Conference
Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park
https://www.nefassociation.org/event/2026-fall-conference/

Don Cosenza, CLFP, Senior Vice President, Maxim Commercial Capital, will cover the conference for Leasing News readers

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October 21-23, AACFB Commercial Financing Expo
Hilton Irvine, Irvine, California
https://community.aacfb.org/events/event-description?CalendarEventKey=068b9817-3c58-4aaf-b21d-01999b13a2e4&Home=%2fevents%2fcalendar

Don Cosenza, CLFP, Senior Vice President, Maxim Commercial Capital, will cover the conference for Leasing News readers

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October 25—27, ELFA Annual Conference
JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, Palm Desert, CA
Online Scheduling Coming

Randy Haug, LTi Technology Solutions, Leasing News Person of the Year 2024, will cover for Leasing News Readers

Help Wanted Ad
    Ameris Bank Equipment Finance

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Hunter, Account Manager, or Processor
By Scott Wheeler, CLFP

There are three primary types of originators in the commercial equipment finance and leasing industry: Hunters, Account Managers, and Processors. While most originators perform elements of all three roles, each professional is ultimately defined by the function they prioritize and excel at.

Hunters
Hunters thrive on identifying, soliciting, and securing new relationships. They are energized by the pursuit of key accounts that elevate production, expand market presence, and strengthen their competitive position. Hunters are forward‑looking, driven by growth rather than past success, and they adapt quickly to changing market conditions. They consistently rank among top producers because they focus on building new, meaningful relationships that align with current opportunities.

Account Managers
Account Managers excel at nurturing and retaining existing relationships. They manage their portfolios with precision, deliver exceptional service, and often become indispensable to their vendors and end‑users. Their strength lies in consistency and reliability. However, because they devote most of their time to servicing current accounts, they often struggle to create new ones—making any potential loss of a relationship feel disproportionately significant.

Processors
Processors are highly effective at managing individual transactions once they enter the pipeline. They stay deeply involved with credit, documentation, and funding teams to shepherd deals through the system. While their intentions are good, excessive involvement can unintentionally slow the process and limit their ability to generate new business. The most successful originators understand the process, trust it, and—most importantly—sell it, rather than becoming part of it.

The industry urgently needs more Hunters—professionals who can consistently develop new, high‑quality relationships. While every originator must manage accounts and understand the process, those who prioritize hunting will lead the industry, drive production, and command superior income.

One of the most revealing questions to ask any originator is: “Tell me about the new relationships you’ve established in the last ninety days or the last six months.”

The answer quickly clarifies whether the originator is functioning primarily as a Hunter, an Account Manager, or a Processor.

I am coaching individual originators to become hunters, to maximize their efforts and increase their personal production.

For more information contact me at: scott@wheelerbusinessconsulting.com

Wheeler Business Consulting is working with individual originators and sales teams throughout the industry to ensure that they are well positioned in the market, capturing their fair share of business, and outperforming the competition. To schedule a one-on-one meeting contact Scott Wheeler at: scott@wheelerbusinessconsulting.com

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Video Pointers for Job Interviews
Career Crossroads By Emily Fitzpatrick/RII

In 2022, 60% of HR Managers will use or have used video interviewing in the hiring process. There are two types of video interviews:

1. Live interviews using FaceTime, Live Messenger, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, etc., coupled with Interview Platforms
2. Recorded question-and-answer interviews, also called “time-shifted” video interviews, often found on Job Board Services.

In a recorded interview (time-shifted interviews), the job seeker is directed to a website to answer questions on video, using their computer or phone (I always recommend using a computer). These video interviews provide an apples-to-apples approach to assessing candidates. All applicants are asked the same questions. The HR team is typically the first to review these recordings and rate the responses. The candidates’ recordings that pass this step (answers are scrutinized for essential experience, personality, culture fit, communication skills, and similar) are then forwarded to the hiring manager(s) for the next round of interviews.

Popularity:
The use of Interview Video Platforms has skyrocketed due to the Pandemic. Moving to this interview mode was eventually the next evolution of interviewing; the Pandemic CATAPULTED this approach. Highly rated platforms include Spark Hire, Premier Virtual, HR Avatar, ZipRecruiter, Indeed, Google Workspace, InterviewOpps, and more. Zoom, Skype, etc., are modes of interfacing (generic) and are not “interview” platforms.

Video interviewing software (platform) is equipped with recruitment-specific features, such as candidate assessment templates, prerecorded questions, and email notifications. The video interview can be conducted on a computer with a webcam or using an app.

Prep:
Remember, this is a “real” Interview and you need to prepare.

Be mindful of where you set up for your video interview. Be sure the area is free of visual distractions (clutter). Carefully consider what is in the background. Additionally, check your technology well in advance of the interview, e.g., connectivity. You may also have to download the platform software, read instructions, and explore the technology.

One of the best things you can do to prepare for a live video interview is practice with friends or family before your job interview. Also, clarify with the interviewer who will initiate the call and double-check the username. Furthermore, be sure to account for time zone differences.

Pointers:
Eye Contact: Make sure to affix a specific spot on your computer or screen.  Do not look straight into the camera.  A habit I have is looking up or sideways. Practice and tape an X where to fix your gaze.

Dress: Professional dress from head to toe is recommended. Always expect the unexpected because you never know when you might need to stand during an interview

Lighting is important. If the light source is behind you, you may appear as a dark silhouette on the screen.  Position a lamp or other light source in front of you.

Positioning: Prop up the computer so that you are not looking down at it and practice where to sit so you are framed correctly by the webcam. Make sure your torso is visible, including your hands.

Communication Clarity: It is expected these days that you use a USB-connected headset or “buds” for an interview instead of the computer’s speakers  Headsets are inexpensive, but earbuds can be expensive (however, in 2022, almost everyone has a pair; contact me for suggestions) and can provide a much clearer interview experience.

Dial-up the Enthusiasm: Someone who speaks with normal energy in a one-on-one conversation can come across as flat and monotone in a video interview. It is essential to be a little more enthusiastic than normal.

Lean In: You have heard that “the camera adds 10 pounds.”  The reason for this is that many people lean backward in their chair when they should be leaning forward. Sitting back and relaxing in your chair will position your head further away from the webcam than your stomach. Lean forward

I have many more ideas and tips; feel free to request our Video Interview Guide.

Emily Fitzpatrick
Senior Executive Recruiter & Career Consultant
Recruiters International, Inc. | RII | RII Career
Phone:  954-885-9241
Cell:  954-612-0567
emily@riirecruit.com
Invite me to Connect on LinkedIn
www.linkedin.com/pub/emily-fitzpatrick/4/671/76
Also, follow us on Twitter #RIIINFO

News Briefs

Iran escalates crackdown on dissent as arrests, executions and threats surge, observers say
https://abcnews.com/International/story?id=132195741  

Iran War Live Updates: Tehran and Trump Send Mixed Signals Ahead of Potential Talks
Iran War Live Updates: Trump Officials and Iran Plan New Talks Despite Mixed Messages - The New York Times

U.S. Has Turned Back 27 Ships Since Strait of Hormuz Blockade Start
The Touska, the Iranian-Flagged Ship Seized by U.S. Forces, Was Under Sanctions - The New York Times

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer is leaving Trump's Cabinet after abuse of power allegations
https://www.sfgate.com/news/politics/article/labor-secretary-lori-chavez-deremer-is-leaving-22216704.php

Apple CEO Tim Cook to step down after more than a decade; John Ternus to take over with Cook as Chairman of the Board.
Apple CEO Tim Cook to step down after more than a decade; John Ternus to take over – The Mercury News

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Javier Manzano Leasing News Computer Tech
   Available San Francisco Bay Area in Person
       Also Available by Telephone/Email/Computer

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Sports Briefs

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California News Briefs

A seven-mile electric transmission line is slated to be built underneath San Jose and Santa Clara
https://www.mercurynews.com/2026/04/20/pge-electric-economy-tech-power-build-property-energy-develop-jobs-ai/

Proposal looks to turn San Jose hotel development  site into housinghttps://www.mercurynews.com/2026/04/20/home-san-jose-build-economy-hotel-develop-property-real-estate-house/

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Gimme that Wine

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJnQoi8DSE8

Unsung Sonoma County winemaker scores historic victory
https://www.pressdemocrat.com/2026/04/20/unsung-sonoma-county-winemaker-scores-historic-victory-at-north-coast-wine-challenge/

Robert Mondavi Winery Reopens Its Historic 
   Oakville Estate Following A Multiyear Transformation Timed to its 60th anniversary,
https://www.winebusiness.com/news/article/316726

U.S. Wine Market Tops $115 Billion In 2025, BW166 Report Finds

https://www.forbes.com/sites/lizthach/2026/04/14/us-wine-market-tops-115-billion-in-2025-new-report-finds/