Most of the challenges Angela Santi has encountered in the asset-based lending industry have been self-imposed. She is naturally introverted and lacked self-confidence at the beginning of her career, but she has since learned to trust herself more and regularly follows her instincts. Santi has also learned to be OK with not having all the answers and does not allow that to hold her back.

Throughout her career in ABL, Santi has held various positions in account management, audit, underwriting, treasury and operations. She has been in the industry for more than 35 years and currently serves as the president and chief operating officer of Access Capital, which she joined in 2000.

As she’s navigated the world of ABL and her own career, Santi has developed a passion for forging strong relationships with colleagues, partners, collaborators and clients. As a leader at Access Capital, Santi is even more dedicated to creating value and aiding her team members and industry peers in advancing their own careers and business success.

“I hope that I’ve had a meaningful and positive effect on my colleagues in this industry and that I’ve added value at each stop along the way,” Santi says.

Unsurprisingly, Santi has picked up many key lessons during her more than three decades in the specialty finance sector, many of which can be applied to any aspect of life. She says it is important not to settle for mediocrity and that having a strong character is critical. She also advises others to always ask questions but to trust their instincts as well. Lastly, she urges everyone, whether they are in leadership positions or not, to strive to be a good role model.

In the future, Santi would like to continue adding value to Access Capital and hopes to get better at embracing the importance and evolution of technology as a necessity in the company’s growth initiatives.