Dime Forms $15B-Asset Equipment and Franchise Finance Group Led by Veteran Keith Smith
Dime formed an Equipment & Franchise Finance Group to provide tailored financing to middle market firms and experienced franchise operators. The new vertical, led by SVP Keith Smith—who previously built a $2 billion lending platform—will target large-ticket equipment and multi-unit quick-service restaurant financing.
1. Group Formation
Dime announced the launch of its Equipment & Franchise Finance Group to expand specialized commercial banking verticals and drive organic growth. This unit will deliver customized financing solutions to middle market companies and established franchise operators seeking asset-based capital.
2. Leadership Team
The new group is led by Senior Vice President Keith Smith, who joins from Star Hill Financial after building a $2 billion equipment and franchise lending platform. Supporting him are Chris Wellbrock (VP, Portfolio Manager & Senior Underwriter), Zerka Gul (VP, Operations & Closing Manager), Lori Rainbolt (VP, Senior Underwriter) and Emily Moreno (Senior Closer).
3. Market Focus and Growth Plan
The group will focus on large-ticket equipment financing for essential-use assets across waste management, construction, medical, commercial and specialty vehicles, and material handling. It will also target multi-unit quick-service restaurant operators, leveraging Dime’s relationship-oriented culture and targeted talent acquisition to capture middle market demand.