Wintrust Specialty Finance (WSF), a division of Beverly Bank & Trust Company, N.A., announced the hiring of Doug Nielsen as Senior Vice President and Chief Sales Officer. Based out of the Denver, CO., metro area, Nielsen will be responsible for managing all new vendor business development activities and program relationship management, working closely with all Wintrust entities to support the growth and success of the organization.

“I’m thrilled to be joining the WSF team and to have the opportunity to further develop and expand WSF’s exceptional portfolio of clients across so many high-growth and high-yield industries,” said Nielsen. “Wintrust has built itself into a market leader by delivering innovative and reliable equipment finance and leasing solutions, and I’m looking forward to channeling my passion for business development into new opportunities and continued growth on behalf of our partners and customers.”

“Doug’s industry knowledge and expertise will be vital as we continue to implement our strategic growth initiatives, and we couldn’t be more excited to have him on our team,” said David Normandin, CLFP, president and CEO of WSF. “Doug has built his career using data and insights to drive sustainable business growth, and I have no doubt that his leadership will fuel new growth for our business, motivate our team and further the stellar reputation of WSF as a whole.”

Nielsen brings more than 35 years of experience to this role. Prior to Wintrust, he held various senior leadership roles with Key Equipment Finance, Bank of America, El Camino Resources and Highline Capital Group, among others.