Hugh Swandel, President of Meridian OneCap Credit Corp., has been named the new Chair of the Canadian Finance & Leasing Association (CFLA-ACFL). The announcement was made on Thursday, Sept. 18 at CFLA’s 2025 Annual Conference, held in Winnipeg, Manitoba—Swandel’s hometown and a fitting location to begin his new role at the national association.
The role is a two-year appointment, and during that time Swandel will lead the Board to provide the CFLA with overall strategic insight, budgeting and support. The CFLA advocates for Canada’s asset-based financing, vehicle and equipment leasing industry's interests. It is the only organization in the country that represents the interests of this group and has more than 200 member companies. The professional, engaged board of directors, which Swandel will now lead, oversees the CFLA-ACFL’s essential work. He most recently served the board as Vice-Chair.
“It is an honor to serve as Chair of the CFLA,” said Swandel. “Canada’s asset-based finance sector is a cornerstone of our economy, empowering businesses of all sizes to innovate and grow. My priority is to help champion the development and sustainability of this ecosystem—by fostering collaboration, advocating for our members, and driving forward the values that make our industry resilient and future-ready. I look forward to working with our dedicated members and partners to ensure the CFLA continues to be a strong voice for progress and opportunity across Canada.”
The CFLA plays a leading role in lobbying and regulatory engagement on behalf of the asset-backed finance industry in Canada. They provide exclusive access to data and benchmarking tools that help members understand market dynamics while also fostering growth and connection through professional development and networking. The organization is committed to equipping members with the knowledge, tools and pathways necessary to thrive amid today's unique industry challenges and opportunities.
“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Hugh and witnessing firsthand the integrity, vision, and genuine care he brings to every challenge,” said Michael Rothe, President & Chief Executive Officer of CFLA. “His new appointment is not only a testament to his deep expertise, but also to the respect he’s earned across our industry. Hugh’s leadership inspires those around him, and I know he will champion the values and progress that matter most to our members. On behalf of all of us at CFLA, I’m thrilled to congratulate Hugh on this well-deserved recognition.”
Swandel joined Meridian OneCap in 2019, bringing a wealth of experience from senior leadership roles across the equipment finance sector. Prior to OneCap, he served as Senior Managing Director for The Alta Group in Canada, where he advised commercial finance organizations across North America. He also held executive roles at National Leasing Group and Electronic Financial Group (EFA) and founded Swandel & Associates.
Swandel has long been active in association leadership, and his tenure makes him an ideal figure to move the association forward. He is a former Board Member and President of the National Equipment and Finance Association (NEFA), an active member of the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA), and has previously served on the CFLA Board. He is also a three-time recipient of CFLA’s “Member of the Year” award, the industry’s highest honor in Canada.
Swandel assumes the role from previous chair Howard Cobham, who served a two-year term with distinction.