Channel, a national leader in equipment finance and working capital solutions, announced key executive appointments to drive the company’s next phase of growth and innovation.
Adam Peterson has been appointed CEO of Channel. Since co-founding the company in 2009, Peterson has played a central role in shaping Channel’s culture, operations, and strategic direction. Known for his visionary leadership and ability to inspire teams, he has consistently delivered strong performance across the company’s equipment finance and working capital offerings. Peterson’s extensive network and collaborative relationships span the industry, enabling him to influence and mobilize partners, peers and stakeholders. His management of organizational growth and industry involvement, including eight years on the NEFA Board of Directors, serving as President in 2023, has earned him widespread respect as a trusted voice in the equipment finance industry.
“I am honored to step into the role of CEO at a time when expanded capabilities and strategic backing create opportunities to strengthen our long-standing relationships and accelerate new ones,” said Peterson. “Channel was built on the principles of innovation, integrity and partnership, and those values remain at the center of everything we do.”
Ryan Schlenner has been named Managing Director of Channel. Ryan brings more than 20 years of experience from U.S. Bank Equipment Finance, most recently serving as Vice President of Capital Markets. His deep expertise in funding strategy, portfolio performance, and partner development will be instrumental in supporting the CEO and advancing the company’s long-term growth initiatives. Known for his ethics, collaborative approach, and commitment to meaningful partnerships, Ryan’s career has focused on the same values that define Channel, making him a natural fit to steer the company’s next phase of growth.
Brad Peterson, Co-Founder and current CEO, has announced his retirement. He will work closely with Adam and the leadership team over the coming months to ensure a seamless transition and remain connected to the company he helped build and scale. Brad will continue to provide strategic guidance and counsel to Channel as a member of the Executive Board. He looks forward to balancing his time between Channel, his home in Florida and his passion for fishing, while continuing as a respected advocate for both the company and the broader industry.
“It’s been an incredible ride, and throughout my career, I’ve learned time and again that success is always about the relationships,” said Brad Peterson. “For 45 years, I’ve been fortunate to work alongside some of the best people in the industries I’ve served, with the last 30 in equipment finance. I am especially proud of the Channel organization that Adam, Jill [Fleck], and I founded 16 years ago. From the start, our focus has been on creating a business and culture grounded in trust, integrity, and doing the right thing, and I hold our team in the highest regard for their efforts. Beyond that, the support, friendships, partnerships and shared accomplishments I’ve enjoyed throughout my career – with colleagues, peers and partners alike – are the most meaningful part of my journey. I’ve truly enjoyed every step and with excitement for what’s ahead, I’m proud to pass the reins to Adam who will continue carrying our mission forward.”
Peterson noted, “With Ryan joining the leadership team and Brad continuing to provide strategic guidance, we are perfectly set to scale our capabilities, deepen our impact, and deliver long-term value to our partners and their customers.”
Justin Nielsen, Founder and CEO of Onset Financial, Channel’s parent company, underscored the importance of these leadership moves. “This leadership evolution reflects the depth of talent and vision that have always set Channel apart. Brad’s longstanding reputation and marketplace influence remain invaluable assets to our organization. Both Adam and Ryan bring complementary perspectives and proven leadership to advance capital access, product offerings, and disciplined growth. Together, this team is exceptionally positioned to lead from the front: driving innovation, advancing product and program development, and continuing to build lasting and meaningful partnerships unlike any others across the marketplace.”
With more than $3 billion in assets across its business divisions and the financial capacity to continue to grow and scale, Channel remains committed to investing in its leadership, people, and platform. These appointments reinforce the organization’s track record of delivering strong capital structures, introducing creative finance product solutions, and
expanded opportunities for its partners and their small business customers.