Empowering the Auto Finance Community Through Connection, Education, and Innovation
The 2025 NAF Annual Conference kicked off June 4 with a warm welcome, setting the tone for three days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Concluding June 6 in Plano, Texas, the event left attendees informed, energized, and ready to shape the future of non-prime auto finance.
Throughout the conference, participants enjoyed an exceptional lineup of timely, insightful, and engaging presentations. The speaker’s expertise and passion elevated every session, providing valuable knowledge and practical tools that attendees can apply immediately.
“The pace of change in the auto and auto finance industry has sped up to unprecedented levels,” said Marguerite Watanabe, NAF Board Member and President at Connections Insights. “The NAF Annual Conference gave the members of the non-prime auto financing community a space to explore how to manage the challenges and optimize the opportunities ahead.”
Over the course of the conference, participants engaged in deep dives on topics spanning the evolving legal landscape, emerging fraud threats, and the power of community connection – key hallmarks of this impactful industry gathering.
The Legal Landscape and Navigating Regulatory Complexity
Among the most valuable sessions was the Legal Landscape Panel, where leading legal minds broke down the fast-evolving compliance environment. Panelists examined emerging risks, recent enforcement actions, and litigation trends reshaping the industry, while sharing practical strategies that lenders and service providers can implement now to stay ahead.
“From navigating the current climate and challenges to key legal issues impacting auto finance, the conversations challenged perspectives and provided attendees with insights on regulatory expectations and strategies to safeguard their business,” said Eric Johnson, Partner at Hudson Cook, LLP.
For those looking to deepen their compliance expertise, registration is now open for the NAF Association’s Compliance Champions Workshop, taking place September 9–10 in Irving, TX.
Shifting Scams and Schemers
Fraud prevention took center stage during Frank McKenna’s compelling session, which explored how sophisticated criminal networks are deploying new tactics to exploit auto lenders. He broke down the latest schemes threatening the industry and emphasized the urgent need for vigilance, collaboration, and smart tech adoption.
The session proved to be a game-changer, with attendees pointing to Frank’s real-world examples and practical advice as immediately useful for tightening internal controls. It was one of many sessions offering actionable takeaways for immediate use.
“The sessions this year truly reflected the challenges and opportunities our industry faces,” said Jennifer Martin, NAF Executive Director. “We’re proud to bring together such a committed and collaborative community.”
Innovation in Action
That same spirit of progress and collaboration extended into the Expo Hall, which served as a vibrant hub of innovation. Solution providers showcased cutting-edge technologies, tools, and services designed to propel the non-prime auto finance industry forward.
From advanced analytics and digital servicing platforms to fraud prevention and compliance solutions, attendees experienced hands-on demos and engaged in meaningful conversations. The energy in the hall captured the essence of the conference, where ideas spark action, relationships grow, and the future takes shape.
Celebration and a Splash of Fun
While education and strategy took center stage, the 2025 conference made plenty of room for celebration. The Awards Ceremony, sponsored by dotData, honored outstanding individuals making a significant impact on the non-prime auto finance industry, recognizing leadership, innovation, and dedication.
This year, Gary Perdue, President of Peritus Portfolio Services, was selected as the recipient of the Jack Tracey Pinnacle Award, the Association’s highest honor. Suzi Straffon, Director of Finance Company Markets at Allied Solutions, was named the inaugural recipient of the Summit Leadership Award, a newly introduced recognition.
Beyond the ceremony, attendees took full advantage of peer roundtables and networking breaks, forging new connections and exchanging ideas across all corners of the industry.
The Poolside Beach Bash, sponsored by DRN, was a standout evening complete with live music, tropical vibes, and plenty of laughs. It was the perfect setting for attendees to relax and recharge in a more casual atmosphere.
The conference’s lighter but no less exciting highlight came during the Casual Friday Networking Breakfast, where the winner of the Hawaii Trip for Two — generously sponsored by Gestalt — was announced.
Winner Hunter Lovelace of RepoSystems expressed his excitement: “Winning the trip was the perfect ending to an incredible conference. The connections I made here will last, and now I get to enjoy some well-earned rest in Hawaii!”
Looking Forward
As attendees return to their roles, they carry with them new strategies, renewed energy, and a stronger network to lean on in a complex market. With a foundation this strong, the future of non-prime auto finance looks brighter than ever.
For auto finance leaders looking for a unique and elevated experience, the NAF Association’s C-Suite Retreat is an intentionally intimate gathering for executives and senior leaders to sharpen their skills and connect deeply. Registration is now open for the retreat, scheduled for August 6–8 at the Omni Amelia Island Resort in Florida.
Stay connected with NAF year-round by joining the association and getting involved. Membership gives you and your entire organization exclusive access to the latest industry news, expert insights, valuable resources, and priority event updates, keeping you at the forefront of non-prime auto finance. Be sure to follow us on LinkedIn to engage with the community and stay informed between events.
Thank you to everyone who made NAF2025 a resounding success, from our speakers and sponsors to all attendees and exhibitors. We look forward to seeing you next year!
