Our Team - Acceptance Finance

Angelo Carrubba

Credit Adviser - Operations

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Angelo Carrubba

Credit Adviser - Operations

Angelo is a founding member of Acceptance Finance, and joined the team to expand his commercial and mortgage lending background to encompass vehicle and equipment finance. He brought with him 12 years’ experience in both residential and commercial lending. Previously he had been involved both as an underwriter and in a management capacity for a large national lender. In 2002, Angelo was appointed General Manager with the main areas of responsibility being Accounting, Systems and IT, Compliance and Human Resources. He is a member of the Institute of Public Accountants and his qualifications include a B. Business (Administration) and Diploma of Financial Services. On the weekends he loves going out for breakfasts with his family and barracking for his beloved St Kilda Saints.

What’s your coffee order?

Long Macchiato

If the world were silent for 20 seconds and all ears were turned to you, what would you say?

Let’s all just chill and ‘give peace a chance.’

0417 349 668

angelo@acceptancefinance.com.au

Jonathan Cornish

Head of Operations

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Jonathan Cornish

Head of Operations

Jonathan joined Acceptance Finance in November 2007, starting in the Client Service’s team, moving onto a Credit Adviser role in 2009. After nearly 10 years as a Credit Adviser, Jonathan transitioned to a Operations role within Acceptance Finance, managing the accounts, IT, HR functions of the business.

He still works closely with a network of accountants and financial planners, and enjoy’s providing their clients with clear advice on their finance requirements.

Awards:

Top 30 Mortgage Brokers in Australia under 30
The Advisor Magazine
December 2012

Finalist – Australia’s Brightest Broker – BrokerIQ
St George Bank and The Advisor
July 2012

What’s your coffee order?

Long black

0419 014 734

jonathan@acceptancefinance.com.au

Daniel Di Conza

CEO

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Daniel Di Conza

CEO

After first entering the finance industry in 1992, Daniel joined Acceptance Finance 2002 to become the driving force in developing the mortgage division of the business. Daniel’s qualifications, which include a Diploma of Financial Services and Finance and Banking Certificate IV, ensure his technical knowledge is sound. His ‘hands on’ approach to the business has led to its continued growth, and he is a widely respected thought leader in the industry.

What’s your coffee order?

Cappuccino, 1 sugar

If the world were silent for 20 seconds and all ears were turned to you, what would you say?

Nothing, I’d enjoy the silence.

03 9854 3500

daniel@acceptancefinance.com.au

Karen Easdon

Client Service Officer

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Karen Easdon

Client Service Officer

Karen joined Acceptance Finance with over 25yrs in the finance industry, plus another 5 years of running her own successful business. She loves helping people with the loan process, and understands that this can be one of the most stressful times in their life. She has gained sound knowledge of the entire lending market and applies these skills in her daily duties.

She loves fishing and bush walking (especially if it takes in the view of the ocean!)

WHAT’S YOUR COFFEE ORDER?

Soy flat white, no sugar.

IF THE WORLD WERE SILENT FOR 20 SECONDS AND ALL EARS WERE TURNED TO YOU, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY?

I would tell everyone to smile and hug the person next to them.

03 9854 3570

karen@acceptancefinance.com.au

John Empey

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

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John Empey

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

John has been a Credit Adviser since 2008. Previously he spent ten years as an Executive Director and Head of Mortgages at ING Bank and ING Direct. Prior to that, John spent seventeen years at Citibank Australia as State Manager in WA, then State Manager for NSW and ultimately as Head of National Distribution for Consumer and Business products.

Away from the office, John is married with two children, a daughter who works and lives in London and a son currently studying at Macquarie University. Golf is his weekly passion, along with supporting the Sydney Swans football team and the Toronto Blue Jays baseball team.

John works from his office at Suite 2, Level 6, 111 Pacific Highway, North Sydney, NSW 2060.

0449 173533

john@acceptancefinance.com.au

Sam Epstein

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

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Sam Epstein

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

Sam joined Acceptance Finance in August 2016 after spending time working for various financial planning and mortgage brokerages.

With a passion for property, Sam enjoys helping people from all walks of life, and finds it humbling to be able to impact people’s lives in a positive way when it comes to their finances.

Sam completed his Commerce Degree at Deakin University in 2014, specialising in Finance and Financial Planning, and hold a Certificate IV in Finance and Mortgage Broking.

Sam is committed to providing an excellent service to his clients, with his ability to build strong relationships and make his clients feel taken care of.

Q. What is your coffee order?
A. Strong Latte, 1/2 Sugar

Q. What might someone be surprised to know about you?
A. Traveling is the best way to experience life. I’m always looking forward to an adventure and experiencing all that the world has to offer. And music. Music is life.

Q. If the world were silent for 20 seconds and all ears were turned to you, what would you say?
A. You must be the change you wish to see in the wold

0419 014 483

sam@acceptancefinance.com.au

Richie Kasai

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

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Richie Kasai

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

Richie joined Acceptance Finance after spending many years in the private, not-for-profit and public sectors in corporate management roles. He is committed to providing a high level of service for all his clients and believes in establishing long term relationships.

Richie is based in the Balwyn office however he is always willing to accommodate the needs of clients by visiting them at their home or office. He will be able to source the most competitive and appropriate mortgage including residential, commercial, self-managed super fund (SMSF) and reverse mortgage lending.

Richie’s qualifications include a Master of Business and Certificate IV in Finance and Mortgage Broking.

Richie likes to spend his weekends supporting his beloved Bombers and playing golf.

What’s your coffee order?

I’m not a coffee drinker but can’t get by without my sugar free V drink in the morning.

If the world was silent for 20 seconds and all ears were turned to you, what would you say?

See the Bombers fly up, up, to win the premiership flag.

0418 502 809

richie@acceptancefinance.com.au

Albert Kavcic

Head of Distribution

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Albert Kavcic

Head of Distribution

Albert joined Acceptance Finance in 2015 and brings with him 33 years’ experience in the Finance and Banking industry incorporating a wide range of roles. Albert’s extensive experience, knowledge and understanding of clients’ needs and expectations, makes him an invaluable member of the AF team.

Albert’s qualifications, include a Diploma of Financial Services and Finance and Banking Certificate IV, ensuring he holds and maintains sound technical knowledge. Albert is a natural people leader and winner of many industry awards for service and sales and his extensive network within the finance industry is second to none.

Relationship building, problem solving and a friendly approachable style is the formula for Albert’s high quality of service.

What’s your coffee order?

In the Morning, Cappuccino – In the Afternoon, Macchiato

If the world were silent for 20 seconds and all ears were turned to you, what would you say?

We are the navy blues….. we are the old dark navy blues!!!

0417 661 999

albert@acceptancefinance.com.au

Matt Mannaert

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

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Matt Mannaert

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

Having completed a Diploma of Financial services, Matt joined Acceptance Finance in early 2009. Matt has quickly established himself as an integral part of the Acceptance Finance Team, his problem solving abilities and high customer service standards have ensured Matt is in high demand.

Having run a small business for over 20 years, Matt’s emphasis is on service and adding value to his clients.

On the home front Matt is married with twins, they share their property with their cat, dog, horse and bunnys and wild king parrots

Don’t hesitate to call him for friendly efficient service.

What’s your coffee order?

Large Flat White

If the world were silent for 20 seconds and all ears were turned to you, what would you say?

If people spent just 5% of their time helping someone else the world would be a much better place

0419 888 421

matt@acceptancefinance.com.au

Ally Merchant

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

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Ally Merchant

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

Ally started in the mortgage broking industry in 2014 and joined Acceptance Finance in November 2017.

Ally realized his passion to help people understand their finances after holding various roles in the banking sector. His goal is to build strong, long term relationships with his clients and provide outstanding service. He feels it is important to understand his clients goals and objectives so that he can best tailor their finance options.

He loves problem solving and thinking out side of the box. These skills have been a key part of his success, especially when dealing with complex scenarios. Clients trust that Ally will go that extra mile.

On the weekends you can find Ally winding through the country hills on his motorbike – the best way to experience the outdoors!

WHAT’S YOUR COFFEE ORDER?

Skinny flat white.

IF THE WORLD WERE SILENT FOR 20 SECONDS AND ALL EARS WERE TURNED TO YOU, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY?

I would just look up at the sky and smile.

0431 585 128

ally@acceptancefinance.com.au

Sharon Modica

Consultant

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Sharon Modica

Consultant

Sharon has over 15 years’ experience in the financial services sector, across both mortgage broking and financial planning. She has applied this experience with Acceptance Finance via her role of developing networks for referring parties, primarily developing relationships with financial planning licensees and their representatives, and specialist property development businesses.

Whilst Sharon has decided on a career break, she remains fully engaged with Acceptance Finance as a major equity owner and will also be available, when the opportunity arises, to become involved in the development of strategic relationships to further enhance Acceptance Finance coverage.

What’s your coffee order?

Long black.

If the world were silent for 20 seconds and all ears were turned to you, what would you say?

Thanks for the peace and quiet!

0409 237 160

modicasharon@gmail.com

Giulia Polizzi

Credit Adviser - Vehicle and Equipment

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Giulia Polizzi

Credit Adviser - Vehicle and Equipment

Giulia has been with Acceptance Finance since 2002 as our Leasing Manager. She is responsible for overseeing and managing the vast leasing client base accumulated over this period and is the main contact for all vehicle, plant and equipment finance needs. Giulia has vast knowledge of leasing products and technical knowledge in this field having dealt with varied financial structures over the years. She is very proud to have developed many strong relationships with her loyal clients over her tenure.

What’s your coffee order?

Short black with one sugar.

03 9854 3556

giulia@acceptancefinance.com.au

Megan Ponniah

Office Administrator

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Megan Ponniah

Office Administrator

Megan has been in the banking industry for 14 years starting with Bank of Melbourne Ltd/Westpac Banking Corporation from 1992 – 2004. She has worked in Consumer and Commercial Lending, processing loans from application to settlement. She was later promoted to the position of Executive Assistant to the Manger of Retail Lending.

Megan joined Acceptance Finance in 2015 as our Office Administrator, which sees her as the first point of contact for those visiting our office. Her other roles include supporting the Leadership Team, and providing the oil to keep the office engine running smoothly.

What’s your coffee order?

Skinny Latte, one sugar.

If the world were silent for 20 seconds and all ears were turned to you, what would you say?

Show your loved ones how much you love them before it is too late.

(03) 9854 3506

megan@acceptancefinance.com.au

Andrew Sanger

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

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Andrew Sanger

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

Andrew joined us in 2004 after spending an extensive amount of time in the financial planning and mortgage industry, working compliance and mortgage consulting fields. His focus at Acceptance Finance is on providing assistance to clients in both the residential and commercial investment lending areas. Andrew also holds a Diploma of Financial Services.

With a 14 year background in property investing himself, Andrew has also established his own website to help clients navigate their way through the world of investment property; www.allthingsproperty.com.au.

What’s your coffee order?

Due to my British heritage, coffee is off the menu and tea is the hot drink of choice.

If the world were silent for 20 seconds and all ears were turned to you, what would you say?

It would be a joke, as it would be awesome to hear the whole world laughing at once

0419 014 161

andrew@acceptancefinance.com.au

Russel Shaw

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

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Russel Shaw

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

After entering the Broking Industry in 2007 Russel joined the Acceptance family in May of 2010. Now operating between our Melbourne office and the Northern Rivers Region covering Byron Bay and South East Queensland, Russel has all the resources of the Acceptance Finance group available to him, ensuring the best service for all his clients.

With an Economics Degree from La Trobe University, Graduate Diploma in Education from Griffith University, Diploma of Finance and Mortgage Management, plus an extensive career in Merchant banking Russel’s experience is invaluable to our group and his clients. With extensive personal business experience, including developing and investing in many projects from renovations, subdivisions and multi apartment constructions, Russel’s level of knowledge is second to none.

Russel works from his office at 85 Byron Street, Bangalow, NSW, but is willing and capable to deal with any scenario anywhere in the country.

What’s your coffee order?

Flat White… extra hot…

0412 833 280

russel@acceptancefinance.com.au

Simon Stoll

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

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Simon Stoll

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

With an extensive background in banking and finance over more than 15 years, Simon brings a wealth of knowledge to Acceptance Finance. Immediately before joining Acceptance Simon ran his own independent brokerage for some 8 years very successfully. Simon knows that the secret to that success was not just knowledge and experience; it also depended on superior service to all his clients, both new and existing.

Simon makes himself available to suit your needs, whether you need to see him personally in your home or office, over the phone or at the head office in Balwyn.

What’s your coffee order?

Latte 2 sugars. Nice & Sweet.

If the world were silent for 20 seconds and all ears were turned to you, what would you say?

Only those who dare to fall greatly, can never achieve greatly. Feel the fear and do it anyway.

0419 014 825

simon@acceptancefinance.com.au

Peter Werner

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

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Peter Werner

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

Peter has been involved in financial services for over 35 years. After 10 years in Treasury with BT and Citibank he ran his own recruitment business that specialised in financial services.

He is based in Sydney.

With a Bachelor of Commerce from Melbourne University, Peter combines his understanding of banking with a deep appreciation of the challenges of running a business and the financial pressures that clients can face.

Peter is also involved in the disability sector as a Board member and Life Governor of Autism Spectrum Australia.

0417 297 477

peter@acceptancefinance.com.au

Sally Whitworth

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

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Sally Whitworth

Credit Adviser - Mortgages

Entering the finance industry in 1999, Sally joined Acceptance Finance in 2001 as a Credit Adviser in both mortgages and leasing. In this role Sally has helped hundreds of our clients with their home and investment loans. Sally has a focus on helping them to make educated decisions and providing flexible finance options.

With her extensive knowledge of both bank products and credit guidelines, Sally’s core role is to develop our ever growing team of Credit Advisers. She also mentors new Credit Advisers when they join Acceptance Finance and works to maintain and develop the service standards and specialist knowledge of our Credit Adviser team. Sally holds a Bachelor of Business (Management) and a Diploma in Financial Services.

What’s your coffee order?

Skinny Latte

If the world were silent for 20 seconds and all ears were turned to you, what would you say?

For the first time I might actually be speechless!

(03) 9854 3504

sally@acceptancefinance.com.au

Janet Wintle

Client Services Officer

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Janet Wintle

Client Services Officer

Janet is a core member of our valued client services team. She has over 20 years experience providing administration support to mortgage managers and lawyers, enabling her the skills to oversee her clients application from inception to completion.

Janet enjoys being able to guide her clients through the sometime rocky road of a finance application, and regularly receives glowing feedback from the clients she helps.

A one eyed Collingwood supporter, enjoys spending time with family and friends, and is avid traveller.

What’s your coffee order?

Skinny Latte

If the world was quite for twenty seconds, what would you say?

Go Pies!!!

(03) 9854 3515

janet@acceptancefinance.com.au

Leo Zhang

Client Services Officer

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Leo Zhang

Client Services Officer

Leo is a vital part of our Client Services team. He graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Masters of Management (Finance) Degree, and also holds a Certificate IV in Finance and Mortgage Broking, as well as a Diploma of Finance and Mortgage Broking Management.

Leo joined Acceptance Finance in July 2017, after worker as a mortgage broker associate for three years previously. He loves working closely with our clients and solving their queries throughout the application process. He aims to be a mortgage broker in the near future.

(03) 9854 3526

leo@acceptancefinance.com.au