SFNet's Emerging Leaders Summit was held in Boston, MA for the first time, April 30-May 1 and drew more than 150 attendees. The Summit, now in its 8^th year, is a dynamic conference designed to unite professionals with 6-15 years of experience in secured finance, providing an unparalleled opportunity to gain insights from titans who have navigated the intricacies of the field. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking panels where industry luminaries offered a unique perspective on both the industry and effective leadership.

The Summit kicked off with a Freedom Trail Walking Tour which explored Boston's pivotal role in the American Revolution.  Over forty summit attendees hit the historic streets of Boston for a dynamic 1.5-hour Freedom Trail tour, guided by costumed interpreters. Participants visited iconic sites, including the final resting places of revolutionary figures like Samuel Adams and Paul Revere, and learned lesser-known facts –such as how the Boston Massacre might not have been the large-scale event often depicted. Attendees were also surprised to discover the sparkle of real gold atop several historic buildings – including a famous grasshopper weathervane! In conjunction with the tour, the Secured Finance Foundation made a $2,500 donation to the Freedom Trail.

Later that afternoon, attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with Bank CEOs and Presidents in an intimate small-group format during the Functional Roundtables. Conversations included forward-looking industry topics and attendees walked away with targeted advice aimed at accelerating their careers within secured finance.

Keynote Speaker Dave Spandorfer, CEO & Co-Founder, Janji, took the stage after. Attendees gained firsthand insights into building a successful company from Spandorfer. He shared the compelling story of how he and his partner identified a market opportunity, established Janji's distinct niche, and scaled the business to over $20 million in revenue. Spandorfer also provided valuable perspectives on navigating the current market dynamics and shared Janji's forward-thinking vision for adapting and evolving in the future.

Pictured above: Highlights from SFNet's Emerging Leaders Summit in Boston, April 30-May 1.



Pictured above: Members of SFNet's Emerging Leaders Summit Planning Committee

Living up to its reputation as a Summit highlight, the Opening Reception buzzed with energy as attendees reconnected with familiar faces and sparked new connections. Following the reception, the networking continued in more intimate settings, with groups enjoying delicious food and interesting conversations during the optional Dine-Arounds, held at Grill 23 & Bar, Sonsie, Parm and Saltie Girl.

The following day featured a variety of panels, beginning with Business Development – Winning the Deal. Rob Meyers, president, Republic Business Credit, served as moderator and panelists included Jeff Austin, sr. vice president, SLR Business Credit, Hiwot Gabreyes, business development, Wells Fargo, Susan Thompson, executive director originations, JPMorganChase, and Brandon Tully, SVP, new business originations–Healthcare, Siena Lending Group. This panel focused on what sets successful business development officers apart. Panelists shared their experiences, highlighting core strategies including top-notch efficiency, building strong buyer relationships, demonstrating relentless persistence, and ensuring rigorous credit work. Beyond tactics, the panel underscored the importance of mindset, advocating for a client-centric approach and actively working to dismantle outdated industry stereotypes about factoring and ABL. Panel attendees gained valuable inspiration for elevating their business development strategies.

Pictured Above: Business Development – Winning the Deal panel

Immediately follow was the Credit/Portfolio Management – Distress in the Market panel, Danielle Baldinelli served as moderator, and panelists included Matt Czerkowicz, director, Capital, Gordon Brothers, Frank Nicoletta, SVP ABL Underwriting, Citi, Paola Socci, associate portfolio manager, Siena Lending Group, and James Wollweber Jr., AVP credit analyst, TD Bank.  Addressing market volatility, panelists at the Credit & Portfolio Management session emphasized that adaptability and proactivity are paramount for navigating the current landscape. The discussion centered on exploring new avenues, such as enhanced flexibility and opening consideration to alternative assets. Crucially, the panel stressed clear communication and closely managing relationships as keys to smoothing the process for clients. The session concluded optimistically, leaving attendees with hope for a successful 2025.

Pictured above: Credit/Portfolio Management – Distress in the Market panel

The AI in the ABL Industry – Opportunities and Barriers panel followed after a networking Break. Philip Yannella, partner, Blank Rome LLP, served as moderator and panelists included Jennifer Daniels, partner, Blank Rome LLP, Dan Ennis, partner, Parker, Hudson, Rainer & Dobbs LLP and Michael Rich, member, Otterbourg P.C.

Highlighting AI as a powerful tool with largely unknown long-term implications, panelists at the AI in ABL session—drawing on their expertise as lawyers—stressed that thorough risk considerations are vital before using these programs, cautioning that entered information may be irretrievable and users are responsible for AI outputs, which can be wrong as systems learn. Panelists urged attendees to "be smart," specifically advising against using AI for confidential work, favoring closed models where possible, and implementing continuous review and risk monitoring.

          Pictured above: AI in the ABL Industry – Opportunities and Barriers panel