Cole Taylor Business Capital (CTBC), a division of Cole Taylor Bank, announced that it has surpassed $1 billion in loan commitments. CTBC was launched in 2008 under the leadership of Michael D. Sharkey, who headed LaSalle Bank’s asset-based lending group before its 2007 acquisition by Bank of America. Starting the division with a small team of experienced managers that worked together at LaSalle Bank, CTBC has funded more than 140 deals across the United States.

“The Cole Taylor Business Capital team is one of the strongest, most experienced and knowledgeable groups of ABL professionals in the market today,” said Sharkey. The CTBC team totals more than 50 employees in 14 regional offices and has customers coast-to-coast. “I am proud of the accomplishments we have achieved together in a few short years. Across the division, whether marketing, sales, operations, underwriting, portfolio management or anything in between, our people really make the difference for our customers. This team is what differentiates us from our competition.”

Mark A. Hoppe, president and CEO of Taylor Capital Group, and Cole Taylor Bank, commented, “This is a tremendous milestone for our ABL group and for Cole Taylor Bank. Mike’s ability to grow this business and gain market share in a competitive market is a testament to his leadership and knowledge of the business. The group consistently delivers on their promises and they close what they propose. The entire team’s experience and dedication to high quality credits have resulted in a superior portfolio that is a great asset to Cole Taylor Bank.”