Kevin Calkiewicz named Rising Star 2025 at AFC Summer Awards

Held at City Central in the grounds of the Honourable Artillery Company in London, the awards ceremony brought together leaders, innovators, and trailblazers from across the asset finance sector. Kevin’s recognition as the AFC Rising Star, sponsored by verifi, marks the culmination of an extraordinary five-year journey in the industry, one defined by rapid progression, commercial excellence, and an unwavering commitment to talent development.

Reflecting on the award, Kevin shared, “This particular accolade is one I’ve quietly aspired to over the past few years. I was fortunate to be shortlisted in 2023, but it wasn’t meant to be at the time. Now, two years on and in my final year of eligibility, I was hopeful that the progress we’ve made in our London office might give me a fair chance. I’m honoured that hope became reality.”

Since the ceremony, Kevin has seen just how wide-reaching the award’s impact is: “I hadn’t fully appreciated the reach and significance of this award until after the ceremony. I’ve attended several events where peers and colleagues across the industry have kindly acknowledged it. It’s been both humbling and genuinely touching to see how far this recognition extends.”

Transforming the London office and beyond

Kevin joined Charles & Dean Finance straight out of university with no industry background. Just five years later, he has ascended to the role of Associate Director and Head of the firm’s London office, a team he launched personally in January 2023. Starting with only three team members and an empty Mayfair office, Kevin has grown the team to 14, generated over £100 million in asset finance transactions, and maintained zero staff turnover; a rare feat in the fast-paced world of finance.

His leadership is both strategic and deeply personal. Kevin is involved in every hire, mentors each member of his team, and leads by example as a top-performing broker. His personal portfolio includes over £100 million in motor finance deals, with clients ranging from iconic automotive brands to high-net-worth collectors. His largest single transaction to date stands at an impressive £2.05 million.

A champion for new talent and higher standards

A central pillar of Kevin’s impact is his unwavering dedication to the next generation of finance professionals. He played a founding role in the Charles & Dean Academy, a structured training programme that has already produced six successful graduates now thriving in the industry.

Kevin’s advocacy doesn’t stop within the walls of Charles & Dean. He is an active voice at roundtables, conferences, and industry events, pushing for stronger outreach, clearer entry standards, and better cross-sector collaboration to attract young talent.

He shared his perspective at the awards: “As we move into an era of greater transparency and evolving compliance standards, the industry has a responsibility to raise the bar for new entrants, particularly within the broker market… While brokers may not currently be classified as fiduciaries, we are in many ways held to a fiduciary standard in the eyes of our clients and lender-partners.”

“Introducing more rigorous testing and qualification requirements will raise the standard of professionalism. It will also make the profession more attractive to individuals seeking a meaningful and respected career in finance.”

Advice for the next generation

When asked what guidance he would offer to newcomers in the industry, Kevin emphasised emotional intelligence and patience: “What sets successful brokers apart is their capacity to remain composed and thoughtful under pressure. Developing the habit of stepping off autopilot and managing emotions thoughtfully is, in my view, one of the most valuable pieces of advice I can offer.”

He added, “Building a successful broker career depends on the strength of your network. Early on, it’s common to feel like progress is slow or even invisible, but perseverance and consistently delivering high-quality work will inevitably produce results.”

Industry recognition and future vision

Already named one of The Leasing Foundation’s 30 Under 30 in 2023, Kevin’s growing influence is helping to reshape the future of asset finance. He continues to work closely with lenders, contribute to thought leadership, and push for a more structured and transparent path for those entering the profession.

The AFC Rising Star Award is a recognition of more than just potential, it acknowledges Kevin’s tangible impact: a thriving London office, a respected training academy, and a powerful example of what leadership looks like when purpose, performance, and people align.

At just 29, Kevin Calkiewicz is not just a rising star; he’s already a defining figure in the future of asset finance.