Hugh Swandel, president of Meridian OneCap Credit, has been named the new chair of the Canadian Finance & Leasing Association (CFLA-ACFL). The announcement was made on Thursday, Sept. 18 at CFLA’s 2025 annual conference, held in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
The role is a two-year appointment, and, during that time, Swandel will lead the board to provide the CFLA with overall strategic insight, budgeting and support. The board of directors, which Swandel will now lead, oversees the CFLA-ACFL’s essential work. He most recently served the board as vice-chair.
“It is an honor to serve as chair of the CFLA,” Swandel said. “Canada’s asset-based finance sector is a cornerstone of our economy, empowering businesses of all sizes to innovate and grow. My priority is to help champion the development and sustainability of this ecosystem — by fostering collaboration, advocating for our members and driving forward the values that make our industry resilient and future-ready. I look forward to working with our dedicated members and partners to ensure the CFLA continues to be a strong voice for progress and opportunity across Canada.”
Michael Rothe, president and CEO of CFLA, added, “I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Hugh and witnessing firsthand the integrity, vision and genuine care he brings to every challenge. His new appointment is not only a testament to his deep expertise, but also to the respect he’s earned across our industry. Hugh’s leadership inspires those around him, and I know he will champion the values and progress that matter most to our members. On behalf of all of us at CFLA, I’m thrilled to congratulate Hugh on this well-deserved recognition.”
Swandel joined Meridian OneCap in 2019, bringing a wealth of experience from senior leadership roles across the equipment finance sector. Prior to OneCap, he served as senior managing director for The Alta Group in Canada, where he advised commercial finance organizations across North America. He also held executive roles at National Leasing Group and Electronic Financial Group (EFA) and founded Swandel & Associates.
Swandel has long been active in association leadership, and his tenure makes him an ideal figure to move the association forward. He is a former board member and president of the National Equipment and Finance Association, an active member of the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association and has previously served on the CFLA Board. He is also a three-time recipient of CFLA’s “Member of the Year” award.
Swandel assumes the role from previous chair Howard Cobham, who served a two-year term with distinction.
