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ELFA Announces New Leadership Deborah Baker Board Chair

🕓 Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes

Overview

The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA) has announced a pivotal leadership transition, naming Deborah Baker of HP Inc. as the incoming ELFA Board Chair for the 2026 term. This significant appointment, alongside a comprehensive slate of new officers and directors, was confirmed by the association's voting members, signaling a renewed focus on strategic direction and industry advocacy. Baker, who currently serves as Senior Vice President, Head of Worldwide Leasing and Financing at HP Inc., brings extensive experience and a proven track record to her new role, poised to guide the influential trade association through a dynamic period for the equipment finance sector.

The announcement underscores ELFA's commitment to robust governance and fostering strong equipment finance leadership. As the leading voice for the $1 trillion equipment finance industry in the United States, ELFA plays a crucial role in promoting best practices, advocating for favorable public policy, and providing educational resources to its members. The selection of Baker, a seasoned professional from a global technology giant, reflects the evolving landscape of equipment finance, increasingly intertwined with technological innovation and diverse financing models.

Background & Context

Deborah Baker's ascent to the Chair position is the culmination of years of dedicated service and leadership within the equipment finance community. Before her current role at HP Inc., she held significant positions, including Vice President and General Manager, Global Vendor Finance, at DLL. Her extensive career has provided her with a deep understanding of both vendor finance and captive finance operations, crucial perspectives for guiding ELFA's diverse membership. Her prior engagement with ELFA includes active participation on various committees and earlier stints on the Board of Directors, demonstrating a consistent commitment to the association's mission.

The transition for the 2026 term will see Baker succeed Mike DiCecco, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Huntington Technology Finance, who is serving as the ELFA Board Chair for 2025. This structured transition ensures continuity and stability within the organization. The full slate of new ELFA officers directors for 2026 includes several prominent industry figures, reinforcing the collective strength of the association's governance. Kris Snow, President, Cisco Capital, was named Chair-Elect; Lori G. Frasier, Senior Vice President, Strategy and Performance, Key Equipment Finance, was named Treasurer; and Robert Premo, Managing Director, Head of Equipment Finance, Truist Securities, was named Secretary. These officers, along with new and returning directors, represent a broad cross-section of the equipment finance industry, encompassing banks, captives, and independent finance companies.

Implications & Analysis

Baker's leadership comes at a critical juncture for the equipment finance industry. The sector faces ongoing challenges related to economic volatility, supply chain disruptions, and the accelerating pace of technological change, including the rise of artificial intelligence and digital transformation. As the industry continues to innovate, her background in technology-driven finance solutions at HP Inc. positions her uniquely to address these trends. Her vision is expected to emphasize agility, sustainability, and the strategic integration of technology into equipment financing models, ensuring ELFA remains at the forefront of industry development.

Furthermore, the appointment of a female leader to such a prominent position highlights the increasing diversity within senior ranks of the financial services sector. This shift not only reflects changing demographics but also brings diverse perspectives to strategic decision-making, which can lead to more innovative solutions and broader industry engagement. The collective expertise of the new equipment finance leadership team is anticipated to bolster ELFA’s advocacy efforts, particularly in shaping regulations that support economic growth and expand access to capital for businesses across all scales.

Reactions & Statements

The announcement has been met with widespread optimism within the industry. Ralph Petta, ELFA President and CEO, expressed his enthusiasm for the incoming leadership, stating, 'Deborah Baker is an outstanding choice to lead the ELFA Board of Directors for the 2026 term. Her deep industry knowledge, strategic acumen, and dedication to ELFA's mission will be invaluable as we continue to champion the equipment finance industry.'

Upon her confirmation, Deborah Baker ELFA shared her vision and appreciation. She was quoted remarking, 'I am incredibly honored to be elected as the 2026 ELFA Board Chair. The equipment finance industry is dynamic and essential to economic growth, and I look forward to working with the Board, our members, and ELFA staff to advance our strategic priorities. My focus will be on driving innovation, promoting diversity, and ensuring that ELFA continues to provide unparalleled value to its members.'

'I am incredibly honored to be elected as the 2026 ELFA Board Chair. The equipment finance industry is dynamic and essential to economic growth, and I look forward to working with the Board, our members, and ELFA staff to advance our strategic priorities. My focus will be on driving innovation, promoting diversity, and ensuring that ELFA continues to provide unparalleled value to its members.' - Deborah Baker, incoming ELFA Board Chair.

Current ELFA Chair Mike DiCecco also offered his congratulations and support, highlighting the strength of the association's succession planning. 'Deborah is a highly respected and experienced leader, and I am confident that she will guide ELFA with vision and integrity. I look forward to collaborating with her during the transition and witnessing her impact on the industry,' DiCecco stated.

What Comes Next

The new slate of ELFA officers directors will officially assume their roles at the start of the 2026 fiscal year. In the interim, Baker will work closely with the current leadership to ensure a seamless transition, familiarizing herself with ongoing initiatives and strategic imperatives. Key areas of focus for the incoming board are expected to include advocacy on Capitol Hill, fostering technological advancements within the industry, expanding membership, and providing robust professional development opportunities for finance professionals. The association's annual agenda typically involves major conferences, research publications, and educational programs designed to empower its members to thrive in an evolving economic climate. The strategic planning process for 2026 and beyond will likely be shaped by the collective insights of this new, diverse leadership team.

Conclusion

The appointment of Deborah Baker as the 2026 ELFA Board Chair and the confirmation of a dynamic new slate of officers and directors marks a significant moment for the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association and the broader industry it represents. Her leadership, coupled with the diverse expertise of the incoming board, is set to steer ELFA through the complexities and opportunities of the coming years. This transition underscores the association's commitment to strong governance, strategic foresight, and continued relevance in a rapidly changing global economy, promising a robust future for equipment finance professionals and the businesses they serve.

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