With more than $4 billion in debt placements and a reputation for saving businesses from the brink of collapse, Haze Walker has become a force in the world of alternative finance. As managing partner of Lawrence Financial, Walker has reshaped how companies secure capital, proving her transformative leadership.
BEGINNING WITH BANKING
Walker’s journey into the commercial finance industry began more than 40 years ago when she joined First Interstate Bank. Initially tasked with handling consumer loans, she quickly transitioned into commercial lending. “Turning down so many companies for financing became frustrating, which led me to reevaluate my focus,” Walker says. In 1993, this shift in focus led her to alternative financing, a move that would shape the rest of her career.
Walker saw the potential of alternative financing early on, understanding that small and medium-sized businesses, often overlooked by traditional banks, needed better options.
“I realized there was an untapped opportunity to help businesses access capital in ways that banks simply couldn’t provide,” she says. Over the years, she built her expertise, developing a deep understanding of the alternative funding ecosystem and how to leverage it for maximum client benefit.
A CLIENT-TAILORED APPROACH
In 2009, Walker joined Lawrence Financial as a partner. Under her leadership, the firm has not only expanded its volume but also significantly increased its closing rate, a testament to her strategic vision and ability to cultivate strong relationships with lenders. Her approach has always been centered on finding the right fit for each client.
One of Walker’s most significant accomplishments is her ability to help companies avoid bankruptcy and preserve jobs. “I’ve always found it immensely rewarding to help businesses not only survive but thrive,” she says.
One example is a turkey jerky manufacturer on the verge of closing its doors. The company had secured a deal with Sam’s Club to place its product in all locations nationwide but lacked the resources to fulfill such a massive order. Walker’s team secured multiple forms of financing, including purchase order and accounts receivable lending, allowing the company to meet the demand and grow to over $100 million in annual revenue. “Within two years, they became bankable and expanded into many other retailers,” Walker says.
Another success involved a startup that began with just $50,000 in monthly revenue. Over eight years, Walker guided the company through various stages of growth, securing multiple rounds of financing, including factoring, ABL and sub-debt structures. By 2023, the company had grown to more than $200 million in annual revenue, with its products available at major retailers. “Helping that company go from a small operation to a nationally recognized brand, all while maintaining ownership without needing private equity, is one of my proudest achievements,” Walker explains.
ADAPTING TO THE MARKET
One of the keys to Walker’s success has been staying ahead of market trends and embracing non-traditional borrowing bases, especially in industries like e-commerce and SaaS, where traditional lending models often fall short.
“The market is evolving, and companies with significant online operations or recurring revenue need solutions that go beyond the conventional borrowing base. That’s where we come in,” she explains.
Her adaptability was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, which she describes as a turning point for many businesses. As companies grappled with changing financial circumstances, Walker found ways to secure funding despite the challenges. “COVID really forced us to rethink how we structure financing. Balance sheets were altered, and suddenly, everyone had to contend with EIDLs and SBA subordination requirements. But we found ways to make it work,” she says.
Walker’s impact on the industry extends beyond the deals she makes. She is passionate about mentoring women and young professionals. Recognizing the unique challenges women face in the industry, she has organized a variety of networking events designed to foster community and support among women in finance. “We need more women in this industry, and I’m committed to helping them find their place at the table,” she says.
Her leadership at Lawrence Financial is equally forward-thinking. As the firm looks to expand its footprint across the U.S., with plans to bring on additional partners in the Midwest and East Coast, Walker remains focused on helping businesses navigate financial challenges and grow sustainably. “We’ve built something special at Lawrence Financial, and I’m excited to see how we can continue helping companies thrive, no matter where they are in the country,” she says.
Walker’s greatest source of pride is the lasting impact she has had on the businesses she’s worked with. “Every deal I’ve done represents more than just a financial transaction. It represents jobs saved, families supported and businesses that can continue to contribute to their communities,” she says.
As she looks ahead, Walker remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in specialty finance. “There’s always more to learn, more ways to innovate and more companies to help,” Walker says. “I’m just getting started.” •
