Michael P. Russell joined Second Avenue Capital Partners, a lender specializing in asset-based loans for the broader retail and consumer products industry, as a managing director. Based in the firm’s Boston office, Russell will be responsible for origination, underwriting and account/relationship management.

“We’re excited to have Michael join the SACP team,” Chris O’Connor, president of Second Avenue Capital Partners, said. “We’ve known him for several years and had the pleasure of working with him on a couple of transactions. Given his background and depth of experience, Mike brings a new perspective to our team which will benefit our clients for years to come. As SACP continues to grow, I know Mike will be a key contributor.”

With more than a decade of experience in the direct lending industry, Russell joined Second Avenue Capital Partners from SLR Credit Solutions (formerly known as Crystal Financial), where he served as a managing director. At SLR, he was responsible for evaluating and structuring new transactions, as well as managing a portfolio of secured debt investments. Prior to SLR, Russell worked at Hercules Capital, where he focused on investments in venture-backed life science and technology companies.

“I’m thrilled to join the dynamic, client-centric team at Second Avenue Capital Partners,” Russell said. “I’ve seen first-hand how SACP’s deep roots in retail and a true partnership approach result in uniquely tailored, creative financing solutions for the firm’s borrowers. The in-house knowledge at SACP is a differentiator in the market, and I look forward to being able to leverage that expertise for my clients, partners and referral sources.”