We are acting on behalf of a well-established European financial services group with a substantial international footprint. Our brief is to appoint a Managing Director to lead the group's North American subsidiary, based on-site in Chicago. The role is particularly well suited to an experienced leader relocating from Germany, with relocation support provided to ease the move.This is the most senior post in the region and carries full responsibility for commercial operations across the United States and Canada. The successful candidate will report directly to international senior management at the European headquarters, ensuring a close working link back to the parent organisation.Key ResponsibilitiesOverseeing all core functions, including sales, credit, operations, and portfolio management.Providing strategic and operational leadership of the North American business unit.Establishing and maintaining relationships with business partners, vendors, and the board.Driving business development and long-term growth in line with the parent company's global strategy.Reporting regularly to the board on business performance and key initiatives.Leading and developing a local management team.The incoming leader will take over a stable, well-run operation and will be expected to sustain that performance while identifying opportunities for continued growth.Other InformationLocation: Chicago, IL (On-site) Relocation Assistance: AvailableEngagement: Fixed-term, 3 to 4 years Travel: 40 to 50%, domestic and international RequirementsEssentialA thorough, end-to-end understanding of the leasing business, covering origination, credit, operations, and portfolio management.A university degree.Strong credit analysis and risk assessment capabilities.Between 5 and 10 years in a senior leadership position within leasing, commercial lending, or financial services.Experience across a wide range of ticket sizes and most asset classes.P&L management experience, with responsibility for a corporate unit generating substantial revenue.A solid grasp of financial mathematics alongside an appreciation of legal and fiscal considerations.A proven ability to manage and develop teams while driving performance.English fluency at native or business-proficient level.Strong networking abilities, both within an organisation and externally with partners and clients.An entrepreneurial mindset combined with operational discipline.Proficiency with enterprise systems such as ERP platforms, CRM tools, and the MS Office suite.A high degree of flexibility, resilience, and a strong work ethicPreferredPrior experience operating across both European (especially German) and North American markets.An MBA or equivalent advanced degree.A previous international assignment or cross-border management experience.Experience in vendor financing and dealer channel business models.Proficiency in German or another European language.A background with a global leasing company or the leasing division of a major international bank.BenefitsA variable incentive structure (roughly 30% of total compensation).A base salary of approximately $250,000 to $280,000 (more may be considered for an exceptional candidate).A comprehensive benefits package including 401(k), medical, dental, vision, life insurance, prescription drug coverage, and disability insurance.25 days of paid leave.A company car (partial maintenance).Why This RoleThis is a rare opportunity to serve as the senior-most leader of a well-established international subsidiary in North America. For a candidate moving across from Germany, it offers a natural bridge between European and North American business cultures, with the backing and resources of a large European financial services group throughout. The incoming executive will inherit a sound operational foundation and the mandate to shape the next chapter of the business. The position brings meaningful autonomy, direct engagement with global leadership, and the chance to leave a lasting mark on a growing platform.Keller is a recruitment agency that provides services to clients ranging from startups and non profits to multinational corporations. Keller emphasizes ethical search processes, attentive candidate care, and leadership placements that support long-term client outcomes.To learn more about the firm and about our candidate services - please visitExecutive Search Germany:Headhunter and Recruitment Services in GermanyEqual Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under EU law and the laws of the respective EU member states. Commitment to Diversity Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected. We recognize and celebrate the cultural diversity across EU member states. Reasonable Accommodations Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, in accordance with EU Directive 2000/78/EC and national laws of EU member states. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations. Compensation Information For client positions, compensation information will be provided in accordance with applicable EU and national laws. When required by law, salary information will be included in job postings or provided during the recruitment process. We are committed to pay transparency and equal pay for equal work, in line with EU Directive 2006/54/EC and national laws on pay equity. Compliance with Laws Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with EU laws, directives, and regulations, as well as national laws of EU member states governing non-discrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. Workplace Harassment Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on any protected characteristic under EU law and the laws of EU member states. This includes, but is not limited to, harassment based on race, ethnic origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, nationality, age, disability, or genetic information. Data Protection and Privacy We process personal data in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and applicable national data protection laws. For more information about how we collect and process personal data for recruitment and employment purposes, please review our Privacy Policy at www.kellerexecutivesearch.com. Pay Equity Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable EU and national laws. Working Time and Leave We comply with EU Directive 2003/88/EC concerning certain aspects of the organization of working time, as well as national laws of EU member states regarding working hours, rest periods, and leave entitlements. Health and Safety We are committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment in accordance with EU Framework Directive 89/391/EEC on Safety and Health at Work and relevant national laws of EU member states. Works Councils and Employee Representation We respect the rights of employees to form and join works councils and other forms of employee representation in accordance with EU Directive 2009/38/EC and national laws of EU member states. Country-Specific Declarations While this policy provides a general framework applicable across the EU, it's important to note that specific employment laws can vary significantly between EU member states. To ensure full compliance with local regulations, we make the following provisions: Local Law Compliance: In addition to EU-wide regulations, we comply with all national laws and regulations of the specific EU member state where the employment takes place. Country-Specific Addenda: For each EU country where we operate, we maintain country-specific addenda to this policy. These addenda outline any additional requirements, protections, or procedures mandated by national law that go beyond or differ from EU-wide standards.Language Requirements: In countries where local law requires that employment policies be provided in the local language, we will make available a properly translated version of this policy and its country-specific addendum. Notification of Applicable Laws: During the recruitment process, candidates will be informed of the specific national laws that apply to their potential employment, in addition to EU-wide regulations. Regular Updates: We commit to regularly reviewing and updating our country-specific addenda to reflect any changes in national employment laws. Precedence of National Law: Where national law provides greater protection or additional rights to employees beyond what is outlined in this general EU policy, the national law will take precedence. Specific Declarations: Where required by national law, we will make specific declarations regarding matters such as: Pay transparency and gender pay gap reporting Working time arrangements Collective bargaining agreements Data protection and privacy measures Whistleblower protection mechanisms Any quota systems for underrepresented groups in employment.Access to Information: Employees and candidates can request information about the country-specific policies applicable to their employment or potential employment by contacting assistance@kellerexecutivesearch.com. Use of Artificial Intelligence in Recruitment Keller Executive Search and our clients may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the recruitment and candidate evaluation process. These tools are used exclusively to support human decision-making by helping to review and assess candidate qualifications and materials. AI is never used to automatically reject, disqualify, or make final hiring decisions about candidates. All AI-assisted evaluations are reviewed by experienced recruitment professionals, and all hiring decisions are made by qualified human recruiters. Our use of AI is designed to enhance fairness, consistency, and efficiency while maintaining our commitment to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination principles. Genetic Information In accordance with EU and national laws, both Keller Executive Search and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law. Local Laws Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate within the EU. Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location within the EU.
We are acting on behalf of a well-established European financial services group with a substantial international footprint. Our brief is to appoint a Managing Director to lead the group's North American subsidiary, based on-site in Chicago. The role is particularly well suited to an experienced leader relocating from Germany, with relocation support provided to ease the move.
This is the most senior post in the region and carries full responsibility for commercial operations across the United States and Canada. The successful candidate will report directly to international senior management at the European headquarters, ensuring a close working link back to the parent organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Overseeing all core functions, including sales, credit, operations, and portfolio management.
- Providing strategic and operational leadership of the North American business unit.
- Establishing and maintaining relationships with business partners, vendors, and the board.
- Driving business development and long-term growth in line with the parent company's global strategy.
- Reporting regularly to the board on business performance and key initiatives.
- Leading and developing a local management team.
The incoming leader will take over a stable, well-run operation and will be expected to sustain that performance while identifying opportunities for continued growth.
Other Information
- Location: Chicago, IL (On-site)
- Relocation Assistance: Available
- Engagement: Fixed-term, 3 to 4 years
- Travel: 40 to 50%, domestic and international
Requirements
Essential
- A thorough, end-to-end understanding of the leasing business, covering origination, credit, operations, and portfolio management.
- A university degree.
- Strong credit analysis and risk assessment capabilities.
- Between 5 and 10 years in a senior leadership position within leasing, commercial lending, or financial services.
- Experience across a wide range of ticket sizes and most asset classes.
- P&L management experience, with responsibility for a corporate unit generating substantial revenue.
- A solid grasp of financial mathematics alongside an appreciation of legal and fiscal considerations.
- A proven ability to manage and develop teams while driving performance.
- English fluency at native or business-proficient level.
- Strong networking abilities, both within an organisation and externally with partners and clients.
- An entrepreneurial mindset combined with operational discipline.
- Proficiency with enterprise systems such as ERP platforms, CRM tools, and the MS Office suite.
- A high degree of flexibility, resilience, and a strong work ethic
Preferred
- Prior experience operating across both European (especially German) and North American markets.
- An MBA or equivalent advanced degree.
- A previous international assignment or cross-border management experience.
- Experience in vendor financing and dealer channel business models.
- Proficiency in German or another European language.
- A background with a global leasing company or the leasing division of a major international bank.
Benefits
- A variable incentive structure (roughly 30% of total compensation).
- A base salary of approximately $250,000 to $280,000 (more may be considered for an exceptional candidate).
- A comprehensive benefits package including 401(k), medical, dental, vision, life insurance, prescription drug coverage, and disability insurance.
- 25 days of paid leave.
- A company car (partial maintenance).
Why This Role
This is a rare opportunity to serve as the senior-most leader of a well-established international subsidiary in North America. For a candidate moving across from Germany, it offers a natural bridge between European and North American business cultures, with the backing and resources of a large European financial services group throughout. The incoming executive will inherit a sound operational foundation and the mandate to shape the next chapter of the business. The position brings meaningful autonomy, direct engagement with global leadership, and the chance to leave a lasting mark on a growing platform.
Keller is a recruitment agency that provides services to clients ranging from startups and non profits to multinational corporations. Keller emphasizes ethical search processes, attentive candidate care, and leadership placements that support long-term client outcomes.
To learn more about the firm and about our candidate services - please visit
Executive Search Germany:Headhunter and Recruitment Services in Germany
Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under EU law and the laws of the respective EU member states.
Commitment to Diversity
Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected. We recognize and celebrate the cultural diversity across EU member states.
Reasonable Accommodations
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, in accordance with EU Directive 2000/78/EC and national laws of EU member states. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.
Compensation Information
For client positions, compensation information will be provided in accordance with applicable EU and national laws. When required by law, salary information will be included in job postings or provided during the recruitment process. We are committed to pay transparency and equal pay for equal work, in line with EU Directive 2006/54/EC and national laws on pay equity.
Compliance with Laws
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with EU laws, directives, and regulations, as well as national laws of EU member states governing non-discrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Workplace Harassment
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on any protected characteristic under EU law and the laws of EU member states. This includes, but is not limited to, harassment based on race, ethnic origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, nationality, age, disability, or genetic information.
Data Protection and Privacy
We process personal data in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and applicable national data protection laws. For more information about how we collect and process personal data for recruitment and employment purposes, please review our Privacy Policy at www.kellerexecutivesearch.com.
Pay Equity
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable EU and national laws.
Working Time and Leave
We comply with EU Directive 2003/88/EC concerning certain aspects of the organization of working time, as well as national laws of EU member states regarding working hours, rest periods, and leave entitlements.
Health and Safety
We are committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment in accordance with EU Framework Directive 89/391/EEC on Safety and Health at Work and relevant national laws of EU member states.
Works Councils and Employee Representation
We respect the rights of employees to form and join works councils and other forms of employee representation in accordance with EU Directive 2009/38/EC and national laws of EU member states.
Country-Specific Declarations
While this policy provides a general framework applicable across the EU, it's important to note that specific employment laws can vary significantly between EU member states. To ensure full compliance with local regulations, we make the following provisions:
- Local Law Compliance: In addition to EU-wide regulations, we comply with all national laws and regulations of the specific EU member state where the employment takes place.
- Country-Specific Addenda: For each EU country where we operate, we maintain country-specific addenda to this policy. These addenda outline any additional requirements, protections, or procedures mandated by national law that go beyond or differ from EU-wide standards.
- Language Requirements: In countries where local law requires that employment policies be provided in the local language, we will make available a properly translated version of this policy and its country-specific addendum.
- Notification of Applicable Laws: During the recruitment process, candidates will be informed of the specific national laws that apply to their potential employment, in addition to EU-wide regulations.
- Regular Updates: We commit to regularly reviewing and updating our country-specific addenda to reflect any changes in national employment laws.
- Precedence of National Law: Where national law provides greater protection or additional rights to employees beyond what is outlined in this general EU policy, the national law will take precedence.
- Specific Declarations: Where required by national law, we will make specific declarations regarding matters such as:
- Pay transparency and gender pay gap reporting
- Working time arrangements
- Collective bargaining agreements
- Data protection and privacy measures
- Whistleblower protection mechanisms
- Any quota systems for underrepresented groups in employment.
- Access to Information: Employees and candidates can request information about the country-specific policies applicable to their employment or potential employment by contacting assistance@kellerexecutivesearch.com.
Use of Artificial Intelligence in Recruitment
Keller Executive Search and our clients may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the recruitment and candidate evaluation process. These tools are used exclusively to support human decision-making by helping to review and assess candidate qualifications and materials. AI is never used to automatically reject, disqualify, or make final hiring decisions about candidates. All AI-assisted evaluations are reviewed by experienced recruitment professionals, and all hiring decisions are made by qualified human recruiters. Our use of AI is designed to enhance fairness, consistency, and efficiency while maintaining our commitment to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination principles.
Genetic Information
In accordance with EU and national laws, both Keller Executive Search and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law.
Local Laws
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate within the EU.
Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location within the EU.
Keller Executive Search International is a global executive search that recruits senior leaders for prominent brands and organizations. We offer full-spectrum services, such as Executive Search, Board Services, CEO Succession Planning, Executive Assessment, Business Culture Review, and Corporate Handover.
Keller Executive Search International is a global executive search that recruits senior leaders for prominent brands and organizations. We offer full-spectrum services, such as Executive Search, Board Services, CEO Succession Planning, Executive Assessment, Business Culture Review, and Corporate Handover.
