2025 Legends and Leaders

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Kei Lehigh

President
Equify Business Funding by Equify Financial
By Violet Synnestvedt

Kei Lehigh has made a significant impact on the specialty finance industry through over three decades of experience in factoring, asset-based lending and accounts receivable finance. As President of Equify Business Funding, a division of Equify Financial, he drives growth and innovation in the financial sector. Lehigh has held leadership roles at Citigroup, Wells Fargo Capital Finance, Bell Bank and UMB Bank, gaining deep expertise in portfolio management, business development and credit risk assessment.

Lehigh is known for transforming and building divisions within established firms. He blends strategic vision with operational execution, guiding businesses through downturns and restructurings. His leadership is grounded in integrity, transparency and empowerment. He focuses on developing strong, high-performing teams by equipping them with the tools, confidence and autonomy to succeed.

One of Lehigh’s key contributions is his focus on long-term, relationship-driven business practices. By prioritizing mentorship and collaboration, he has built lasting networks and helped many individuals advance in their careers. Many of his mentees have gone on to leadership roles. For Lehigh, specialty finance is about more than structuring deals — it’s about helping businesses overcome financial challenges and grow.

He remains deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of finance professionals, encouraging them to apply creativity, discipline and critical thinking. His philosophy emphasizes leading by example and fostering continuous learning.

Passion for his work drives Lehigh. He finds fulfillment in helping businesses secure the capital they need to evolve. The dynamic nature of the finance industry keeps him engaged, especially as new technologies and regulations emerge.

Lehigh sees great potential in alternative lending and fintech integration. He believes firms that embrace innovation and customer-centric models will lead the next wave of growth. His legacy is one of building empowered teams, fostering innovation and shaping the future of specialty finance.

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