Southern Auto Finance Company Appoints Brian Hopper as New Senior Vice President and Chief Risk Officer

Southern Auto Finance Company Welcomes Brian Hopper

Southern Auto Finance Company, LLC (SAFCO) has exciting news as it introduces Brian Hopper as its new Senior Vice President and Chief Risk Officer. With over two decades of experience in various facets of risk management, Brian is expected to play a pivotal role in the strategic direction of the company.

Prior to his new role at SAFCO, Brian Hopper held influential positions at reputable organizations such as AutoNation and LL Funds. At AutoNation, he was integral in implementing process efficiency initiatives that resulted in significant cost savings and improved operational effectiveness. His tenure at LL Funds saw him spearheading a major portfolio turnaround, alongside the development of innovative data oversight solutions that enhanced business intelligence.

Before those roles, Brian made his mark at United Auto Credit and Westlake Financial, where he excelled in managing substantial portfolios and enhancing credit risk methodologies. His accomplishments included leading securitizations that exceeded $1 billion, showcasing his depth of knowledge in financial operations and risk assessment.

Brian's strong educational background complements his professional experience. He earned his MBA from Arizona State University and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Northern Arizona University. Furthermore, he is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and possesses Series 65 credentials, reflecting his thorough understanding of finance and investment strategies.

In welcoming Brian to SAFCO, George Fussell, the CEO, expressed confidence in his capabilities. He stated, "We are thrilled to welcome Brian Hopper as our new Chief Risk Officer. His extensive experience in risk management and strategic approach will be invaluable as we strengthen our risk framework and pursue new growth opportunities."

SAFCO prides itself on its belief that potential should not solely be determined by credit scores. With a strong presence in the auto finance sector, the company currently partners with over 3,000 dealerships, leveraging technology to enhance operational success.

As Brian steps into this new role, stakeholders can expect robust developments in SAFCO's risk management framework, ultimately contributing to the company’s growth and sustainability. His leadership is anticipated to drive substantial value across operations—positioning SAFCO favorably within the competitive financial services landscape.

For more information about Southern Auto Finance Company and its ongoing initiatives, contact Jason Person, Chief Financial Officer, at 954-745-2503 or via email at [email protected]