United Capital Business Lending, a Maryland-based national business lender specializing in franchise finance, announced two new additions to the organization’s business development team. Melanie Gutzmer, VP, regional business development officer and Michelle Ternus, senior account manager, will be responsible for developing business opportunities and managing key client relationships in the Central region of the U.S.

Gutzmer comes to United Capital with over 13 years of proven sales and marketing experience in franchise lending, most recently from Infinity Franchise Capital and First Franchise Capital. She is well known in the industry as a solid producer and has consistently ranked among the top performing loan originators at her previous companies, United said.

Ternus brings a wealth of account management experience gained from managing and servicing over 1000 accounts in the nation’s top franchised restaurant concepts while working at Infinity Franchise Capital and First Franchise Capital, United added.

“Together Melanie and Michelle have an amazing track record of success in the franchise financing sector. We are thrilled that they have joined United Capital’s franchise lending team,” said William Johnson, SVP of sales and business development for United Capital.