Lou Rubin

Lou Rubin was giant in the world of the corporate finance industry. Rubin began his career at AJ Armstrong, an independent commercial finance company, becoming president in 1978. His career coincided with a major transformation in commercial finance from mainly independent asset based lenders into multinational financial institutions in ‘80s & 90s.  When AJ Armstrong was merged into Security Pacific in 1982, Rubin became president of the Business Credit division. 

In 1986, Rubin was recruited to become President CEO of NatWest USA Credit Corporation. As shared by Dave Kantes, the former Chief Operating Officer of NatWest: "Lou was usually quiet and reserved, but he was always actively thinking through issues, concerns, and focused on managing risk, supporting clients, prudently managing the capital resources the Bank made available. Under Lou's superb leadership, NatWest USA Credit Corp and later, Nat West USA Bank produced 10 year results that were the very best globally.” Rubin retired in 1992 a leader of the industry.

Lou was not just an expert in deals; he was a dear friend, teacher and a mentor to the people who worked for him. “Your father was a huge influence in my life…simply put, I would not have realized the successes in my life if it wasn’t for your father.  A week does not go by without some mention of your father. 'What would Lou think of this…' is a common question you hear around the office to this day." Bill Hall, formerly of Nat West Credit Corp.

After his retirement in 1992, he enjoyed travelling and playing golf with his wife, Ruth, and spending time with his two daughters and five grandsons.

Throughout his career, Rubin was active in NCFA, now SFNet. He would be so proud to receive this recognition alongside many of his close friends and colleagues who are past SFNet honorees. His family is grateful for this honor.