The Certified Lease & Finance Professional (CLFP) Foundation, the education and certifying body created to raise the industry standards among equipment leasing and financing professionals, announced the appointment of Melissa (Mel) Vinson, CLFP, as Director of Academies.

“With the rapid growth in demand for our Academies for Lease & Finance Professionals (ALFPs), we knew that it was time to hire someone to run the entire ALFP experience, including traveling to in-person classes once permitted,” said Reid Raykovich, CLFP, CEO of the CLFP Foundation. “After gaining her designation in May of 2020, Mel jumped in and began teaching right away and has shown a dedication to the Foundation, and our mission. Her passion and enthusiasm for what we do, and her desire to help others, makes her a natural fit and we are ecstatic to have join the team.”

Vinson said, “I am humbled and honored but most of all delighted to take on the role of the Director of Academies with the CLFP Foundation. I have always had great joy in roles that allow me to help and mentor others, and I feel this position will be a perfect fit for supporting others in their desire to take their careers to the next level. I had such a positive experience obtaining my own CLFP certification that I hoped others would feel the same – and was eager to give back right away. I am grateful that I can now use my energy and positivity to help certify many more CLFPs to come and help grow this organization. I can’t wait to get started!”

The CLFP designation identifies an individual as a knowledgeable professional to employers, clients, customers, and peers in the commercial equipment finance industry. There are currently 1,099 active Certified Lease & Finance Professionals and Associates in the United States (including Puerto Rico), Canada, Australia, India and Africa.