 Christopher Davis - UGA President
After holding a variety of business management and collection related positions, Chris Davis began working on a revolutionary concept in consumer finance; that being, financing and billing of services and memberships, two areas virtually ignored by conventional lenders. Prior to that time, Chris accepted the position of President of Travelers Investments, Inc. Soon after his arrival, Travelers was praised by Inc. Magazine for its five-year growth rate of nearly 1000% and was ranked #257 among America's 500 fastest growing, most productive companies. Chris became a leader in the finance industry by pioneering creative and aggressive custom-built financial services. By challenging the industry's investment mold, he aided in the profit increases of over 75 of the traditionally "non-lendable" business sectors. Chris's innovation in custom financing was primarily in response to the diminishing revenue sources for a variety of businesses, ranging from education services to recreation to business related programs. Chris understood early in his career, and believes now, that in a difficult economy, consumers need more opportunity to be able to afford the products and services they desire. That's why his companies are dedicated to offering alternative purchasing methods, during both good and bad economic times.
 Jeff Daum - UGA Vice President
Jeff Daum began his career as the youngest owner of a Nissan dealership franchise in the history of Nissan. With auto dealerships serving as the nesting ground for his interest in the finance industry, Jeff started a small independent auto dealership specializing in sub-prime financing. His in-house loan program grew rapidly, and Jeff's success in the venture led him to sell his portfolio of business and accept a consulting position with Travelers Acceptance Corporation. While working with Travelers, he designed a conservative, high-yield, auto finance program which was marketed aggressively by Travelers. The program maintained high performance levels and unprecedented popularity. Jeff's progressive approach to auto finance has expanded into a variety of other industries and has enhanced Universal Guardian Acceptance's niche for high-yielding, sub-prime finance programs for UGA clients. Aside from finance program development, Jeff has enjoyed much success in real estate development. He has completed numerous rehabilitation projects for historic properties in his native town of St. Joseph, Missouri. His passion for historic preservation has garnered him appointments to the St. Joseph Landmark Commission and the St. Joseph Downtown Review Board.
 Earl "Packy" R. Wilson - UGA Secretary
Packy Wilson has been involved in business development and revenue building since his career began. Packy's business perspective is truly unique, and whether it's developed by observing Ray Wilson, his father, in his business practices or by his own participation at the ground level of new product and program development, it's uncannily accurate. Packy knows that doing business in any economy is a flexible pursuit, and as such, his common sense business-building strategies have become fundamental for both business administrator and sales personnel alike. His creative and fresh approach to finance packaging has helped many businesses find untapped revenue sources. His tailor-made finance programs have continually generated substantial profits for UGA clients. As a co-founder of Family Fitness Centers and as a partner in Travelers Acceptance Corporation, Packy brings a broad skill set and a well-rounded approach to service contract financing. It's no wonder that Packy has ongoing success in real estate development, is a prolific fundraiser for venture capital projects, and is the founder of a financial holdings company that serves as a finance incubator to both business and industry.
 Mark Schmitz - UGA Chief Financial Officer
Mark Schmitz graduated Summa Cum Laude from Washburn University in Topeka, KS with a dual major in Finance and Economics. Mark began his career with a Fortune 500 company as an accountant at the plant level. He was quickly promoted to an accounting manager at the divisional level and then as a finance manager where he prepared financial statements and analysis at the corporate level. Mark furthered his experience as an accounting and finance manager in the non-profit sector and as the head of finance, accounting and IT for a family-owned service company. Mark's well-rounded experience in various industries with small, large and non-profit enterprises enables him to tailor our services to fit the needs of our diverse client base.
 Jim Lóser - Sales and Marketing Director
With nearly 20 years experience in the finance & collection industry, Jim Lóser has a proven record of maximizing sales/revenue. After working in the Finance & Collections Department at Travelers, Jim launched UAS and UDS with what many of our clients call "a scientific method for increasing cash flow."
After seven years in the consumer finance industry, Jim launched his own business. As a former small business owner, Jim knows the importance of a paying portfolio; that's why he designed Universal's billing program to be an effective, customer-friendly approach to collecting current customer receivables. As an experienced finance professional, Jim works continuously to develop the most innovative programs to increase sales revenue and cash flow.
 Edward Vasques - Director of
Operations
Edward serves as the Director of Operations and is accountable for ensuring the proper controls are in place to safeguard company assets. Edward is also responsible in making sure that customer credit and risk levels are managed properly while maintaining high internal and external customer satisfaction. Edward has a dynamic skill set that includes strong accounting and analytics, solid organizational ability, a keen attention to detail, and the ability to effectively manage multiple priorities. Mr. Vasques's "customer first" mindset will ensure that Universal stays in compliance in an ever-changing, consumer driven market.
Prior to being Director of Operations with Universal, Edward worked for companies such as NCO Financial Systems and Guardian Financial as Director of Operations. Edward's experience includes purchasing delinquent accounts, commercial collections, consumer (1st and 3rd party) collections, and risk management services. Mr. Vasques's ability to proactively identify, develop, and execute solutions to improve overall effectiveness and efficiency puts him at the forefront amongst his peers.
 Tom Janni - Information Technology Director
Since 1986, Tom Janni has kept abreast of the latest trends and changes in information technology. With eighteen years of information technology management and director experience in both operations and programming for the finance industry. Tom gained much of his knowledge and experience managing billing and collection software systems by working as Information Technology Director for Travelers Investment Corporation. Since joining UDS in 2003, Tom has quickly established a strong reputation with our clients for being an innovative problem solver and a clear communicator. Tom is extremely well-versed in translating coded information into meaningful and customized business reports for our diverse clientele. He works diligently to maintain a highly secure electronic environment for our data management system. |
