Fifth Third Bancorp announced the expansion of its asset backed finance (ABF) group within the Commercial Bank with additional capabilities, capacity and expertise to underwrite and distribute asset backed securities (ABS). This expansion positions Fifth Third to grow its position as a leader in ABS transactions within its existing core asset classes, including transportation, consumer entertainment and equipment finance (small-mid and large-ticket).
Fifth Third's current capital commitment of more than $4.0 billion to ABS clients underscores its dedication to facilitating their structured finance objectives. The team has served as bookrunner on eight transactions in 2025, totaling $3.4 billion in debt offerings.
“This marks a significant moment in providing strategic ABS solutions for our clients,” said Kevin Khanna, head of Commercial Banking. “Beyond financing, this expansion of our capabilities and expertise reflects our commitment to meeting the full spectrum of client needs. This team brings insights, relevant experience and the Bank’s relationship-first commitment to help our clients grow with confidence and the capital they need to succeed.”
Leading this team is financial services and banking industry veteran Rebecca Moss. As Managing Director of ABF, Moss leads a team of experienced ABF bankers. She joined Fifth Third in 2022 after leading structured finance transactions at Credit Suisse and Deutsche Bank.
“Our approach is rooted in deep industry expertise and a commitment to relationship banking and long-term partnership,” said Bob Marcus, head of Capital Markets. “Rebecca and her team work closely with clients to uncover opportunities and craft financing strategies that evolve with their needs. We deliver more than just capital -- we’re strategic advisors, helping clients navigate growth and uncertainty.”
Moss’s team includes Steven J. Ellis, managing director, ABF-Consumer and Hector Campos, managing director, transportation and large-ticket equipment; and Joel Ashman and Kristan Gochee, managing directors, syndicate.
Ellis has 29 years of consumer ABS experience and joined Fifth Third in 2021 after roles at Bank of America Securities and Wells Fargo Securities. Campos joined Fifth Third in January 2025, with prior ABS roles at Redding Ridge Asset Management, Deutsche Bank and Merrill. Ashman has more than 25 years of experience at Fifth Third and is a veteran of the fixed income industry. Gochee joined Fifth Third in November 2024 after launching the US ABS trading desk at Lloyds Bank where she also ran sales and trading.
Other additions include team members in sales and trading to support this critical expansion, including Chris Connors, managing director, ABS sales, who joined Fifth Third in July 2025. His career has focused on structured product sales and trading at DLJ, Bear Stearns, Bank of America and Credit Suisse among others.