CSI Leasing unveils new leadership team

CSI Leasing has announced a series of senior leadership promotions and transitions aimed at strengthening its strategic direction and supporting continued global expansion.

The changes mark a significant moment for the business, including a shift at the top as long-serving chief executive Steve Hamilton steps back from day-to-day operations after more than four decades with the company.

Hamilton, who has spent the last nine years as CEO, will move into the role of executive chairman while remaining on the board of directors. His tenure spans 43 years, during which he played a key role in CSI’s international growth, having joined the company in 1983 and progressed through a range of senior leadership roles.

Paul Keefe has been appointed as the new chief executive officer and has also joined the board.

Keefe joined CSI in 2003 and most recently served as executive vice president and chief financial officer, overseeing the company’s financial operations. His appointment signals continuity within the leadership team as CSI looks to build on its existing foundations.

Elsewhere, Arnaldo Rodriguez will take on an expanded remit, adding chief commercial officer to his current role as president.

Rodriguez has been instrumental in driving CSI’s international expansion and now assumes broader responsibility for global commercial strategy.

The leadership reshuffle also includes the retirement of chief operating officer Fred O’Neal, who leaves after more than 35 years with the company. O’Neal will continue to support CSI in a consulting capacity through 2026, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity of expertise.

Janine Todd has been promoted to chief financial officer, having spent nearly three decades with the company in senior accounting roles.

Barry Naylor has been named chief administrative officer, reflecting his extensive experience across CSI’s international operations.

In a move designed to sharpen strategic focus, Chas McDaniels and Jeff Rousseau have both been given the additional title of co-chief strategy officer alongside their existing executive responsibilities. The dual appointment underscores the company’s emphasis on long-term planning and global business development.

Further promotions across the organisation include Masa Hiraga to executive vice president, Bruna Souza to international controller, Kirk Kasicki to director of accounting, and Esteban Moreno to head of European credit, highlighting CSI’s commitment to developing talent from within its global network.

Commenting on the changes, executive chairman Steve Hamilton expressed confidence in the newly structured leadership team.

“I’m very optimistic for the future of the CSI Group led by this extremely capable and experienced management team,” he said.

“Leading CSI as CEO for the past nine years has truly been the highlight of my career. Reflecting on the last four decades, I am extremely proud of how much we’ve grown as an organization. It’s truly remarkable and I am grateful to have been part of its success.”

Incoming CEO Paul Keefe said he was honoured to take on the role, emphasising the strength of CSI’s workforce and culture.

“I am excited and honoured for the opportunity to lead this company full of extraordinarily talented and passionate professionals. I’ve been fortunate enough to spend the last 23 years learning what an amazing company CSI is, and I am very much looking forward to continuing our success,” he said. “I certainly have big shoes to fill, but I am excited and ready to get started.”