Star Hill Financial announced the creation of a new division, SH Franchise Finance, with the addition of three key leaders. Mike Orlov and Greg McNally were appointed Senior Vice President, Business Development Officer and Christopher Wellbrock was appointed Senior VP of Credit. Keith Smith, Star Hill’s President of Equipment and Franchise Finance stated, “With my experience leading the franchise finance division at Sterling National Bank, I saw a unique opportunity in the marketplace to bring a fresh balance sheet to support the franchise industry. We will continue to support national brands with a focus on Tier 1 and Tier 2 quick serve restaurants.”
“As I have said before, expansion and growth is our mission for 2021. Creating a franchise division was a natural addition to our product offering. Mike, Greg, and Chris bring over 40 years of experience in franchise financing. Combined they financed over $1 billion in franchise transactions “They are top performers in their field; and we know they will continue to be successful at Star Hill”, said Hollis Bufferd, Chief Executive Officer.
Prior to joining Star Hill, Mike Orlov was VP of Sales at Bridge Funding Group, Inc., a Bank United Company, and GE Capital focusing on all major restaurant brands as well as the personal services and fitness sectors. Orlov stated, “When Star Hill approached Greg and me with the opportunity to join their team it was a no brainer. They have a talented team that will allow us to focus on continuing to grow the franchise lending portfolio by offering our customers a wide variety of lending products.”
Greg McNally most recently was VP of Sales and Bridge Funding Group, Inc. where he expanded to all major restaurant brands, fitness, and personal services. He previously held the position of Controller at GE Capital Franchise Finance and later moved into a business development role focusing on the pizza segment. He added, “Mike and I are excited to be working together again. We are looking forward to building a team from the ground up. Working at Star Hill will allow us the flexibility to pivot based on the ever-changing environment. We look forward to working with our customers to continue to assist them with their growth.”
Christopher Wellbrock has built his career in risk management including serving as Vice President and Senior Underwriter in Sterling National Bank’s franchise finance division. Prior to Sterling, Chris was an underwriter at JP Morgan Chase & Co. in the Wholesale Credit Risk Regulatory & Strategy group. “The addition of Chris Wellbrock rounds out our executive team,” said Smith, “His experience in risk management, specifically in restaurant franchises, supports the expansion of Star Hill.” Wellbrock said “The synergy of the Star Hill team is amazing. I am excited to work with seasoned industry leaders like Keith, Mike, and Greg.”