Leadership Team
Chris A. Di Lillo
Owner and Chief Executive Officer
Chris is an accomplished business owner who has owned and operated several successful enterprises, the primary being Maxus Capital, which he founded in 1993 after a successful tenure at LDI Corporation. With more than 39 years experience in the equipment leasing and commercial finance industry, Chris has resident knowledge on what a middle market business encounters in a debt and capital raise during changing economic conditions. Chris also has a keen perspective from both sides of the negotiation table, as Maxus Capital Group has originated hundreds of millions in quality middle market financings. Chris has also raised more then $450 million in debt and equity for Maxus Capital Group through an equity deal with Morgan Stanley, achieved a debt raise with several regional and national lenders, and a recent private capital raise with a group of professional accredited investors. The mission of building strong customer relations, implementing advanced operating systems, and maintaining the confidence of financial institutions has helped Maxus Capital Group grow and become a trusted capital asset finance source for middle-market to Fortune 100 companies in more than 30 states across the country.
Michael R. Dance
Senior Managing Director
Mike has more than 40 years of experience in the commercial lending and equipment leasing industry, including positions within The CIT Group, Royal Bank of Scotland, General Motors, US West, Sumitomo Corporation of America, ABN AMRO, Westinghouse, Heller Finance and GE Capital. Having worked with both banking and financial service institutions, he possesses the knowledge of the disciplined and process-oriented banking environment as well as the creative, structure-minded finance company. This provides a balanced blend to institutions looking to align and capitalize on the current market conditions.
John M. Cunningham
Executive Vice President
John has more than 25 years of experience in Banking and Commercial Finance. Having led teams in Commercial & Industrial as well as Commercial Real Estate Lending, he has a unique perspective on both structuring and underwriting opportunities. He has held senior lending positions with banks ranging from large national institutions to smaller community banks. Starting his career at National City Bank, he has run businesses at PNC Bank, Huntington Bank, Chemical Bank (TCF Bank via merger) and Premier Bank. With experience presenting to, as well as being an adjudicating member of multiple credit committees, John has a deep understanding of formal credit processes, credit policy and the importance of disciplined underwriting methods.
John received his Bachelor of Science in Economics from Miami University and his Master of Business Administration degree from Case Western Reserve University.
Anthony N. Granata
Vice President, Portfolio Management
Anthony joined Maxus Capital Group in May 1996 as Vice President – Credit and Funding. He is responsible for overseeing the credit, syndication, and treasury functions for the company. Anthony has more than 30 years of experience in banking and equipment finance.
Anthony received his Master of Business Administration degree from Cleveland State University in 1993 and Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Kent State University in 1986.
Jonathan A. LaFrance
Director of Marketing
Jonathan has more than 25 years of commercial experience in the financial sector. He has held several sales and marketing positions within The General Electric Company and GE Capital. Prior to his business experience, Jonathan served as an infantry officer with the 2/327th, 101st Airborne Division. His primary responsibilities include marketing and sales force effectiveness.
Jonathan is a graduate of the Northeastern University in Boston, MA.
“Rangers Lead The Way”
Brian D. Huyghe
Director of Credit
Brian joined Maxus Capital Group in 2015 and has over 10 years of experience in commercial lending. He has held multiple positions at Maxus and now oversees credit operations, risk management, and syndications with a specialized focus in equipment lending. He enjoys the creative nature of structuring transactions across unique industries and new equipment types.
Brian is a graduate of John Carroll University in University Heights, OH.
Outside of work, Brian is a passionate bowler and has achieved three perfect 300 games in sanctioned bowling competition.
Andrew J. Kallay, CPA
Director of Accounting & HR
Andrew (AJ) is an accomplished finance professional with over a decade of experience in accounting and financial leadership across diverse sectors. As a CPA, CMA, and MBA graduate, he brings expertise in financial reporting, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance. AJ’s background in Big 4 public accounting, along with his consulting experience, highlights his commitment to accuracy, client satisfaction, and service excellence.
Outside of work, AJ serves on the board of the Community Cat Project nonprofit, supporting stray cat population control in Cleveland, and enjoys running, CrossFit, paddleboarding, and cheering for Cleveland sports.
Adam A. Pucella
Director, Business Development
Adam brings extensive experience to the table, having previously worked in the credit department at Maxus and served as one of the Vice Presidents of Mortgage Lending at Mutual of Omaha Mortgage. With a robust background in financial analysis and client relationship management, Adam plays a vital role as a liaison between origination, credit, and the investment committee, ensuring smooth communication and transaction feasibility.
Adam graduated from Bowling Green State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, specializing in Finance, as well as Applied Economics in International Economics.
Matthew R. Nicol
Director, Business Development
Matt brings a diverse professional background, with experience in insurance & financial services, military, manufacturing, retail, and entrepreneurship. Throughout his career, Matt has gained extensive expertise in project management, complex problem solving, consultative sales, and strategic client relationship management. In his role at Maxus Capital Group, Matt’s core focus is business growth and cultivating enduring relationships with both new and existing clients.
Matt earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from Franklin University.