Mike Sharkey will retire from his role as president of Fifth Third Business Capital at the end of September after a 40-year career in the asset-based lending industry.
Sharkey began his career as a field examiner at GE Capital and went on to establish and manage various ABL businesses, including StanChart Business Credit, LaSalle Business Credit, Cole Taylor Business Capital and MB Business Capital.
Sharkey devoted his career to building teams of talented asset-based financing professionals committed to managing risk, thinking creatively, providing excellent customer service and being a trusted partner to middle market businesses. Sharkey earned a reputation as a patient and steady hand who thrived in an environment where he developed strong long-term relationships with dealmakers and corporate executives. Sharkey was a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Commercial Finance Association (SFNet) and is a member of the Secured Finance Network Hall of Fame.
Sharkey announced his intention to pursue a new venture by retiring from banking effective Sept. 30, 2020. He will split his time between Chicago and Sedona, AZ, and enjoy golfing, hiking with his wife Sue, spending time with his children and grandson, and supporting his favorite charities: HFS Chicago Scholars and the American Brain Tumor Association.
