Santander Bank announced Brian Schwinn has been appointed to head the bank’s asset-based lending (ABL) and restructuring finance business in its Commercial Banking division. Schwinn is responsible for growing Santander’s ABL business, a full-service provider with a highly diversified portfolio and particular expertise in equipment financing, wholesale trade and financial services. He is based in Boston and New York City and reports to Robert Rubino, Santander’s co-president and head of Commercial Banking.

Schwinn transitions into his new role after joining Santander as Commercial Banking’s chief credit officer in November 2016. Prior to Santander, Schwinn spent 18 years at GE Capital holding several leadership positions, including London-based chief credit officer for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.  Before GE Capital, Schwinn was with UBS and JPMorgan Chase. During his career, he has advised clients and managed portfolios across a wealth of different product categories including leveraged finance, securitization, asset-based lending, debt capital markets, real estate, commercial aviation and structured products.

“Our growth strategy in the U.S. is centered on being an effective life cycle financial partner to our clients and prospects,” Rubino said. “Asset-based lending, and our continued investment in growing its capabilities, is core to this strategy. Brian’s diverse experience, proven leadership and ability to collaborate effectively will serve us well as we continue to build a best-in-class asset-based lending and restructuring practice. His industry knowledge and expertise will be instrumental in serving the financial needs of our clients.”

Schwinn earned a bachelor of science in applied economics and business management from Cornell University.