James Cretella - What Being an SFNet 40 Under 40 Honoree Taught me about Building a Career in Specialty Finance

The path through specialty finance is rarely a linear one. Along this journey, I’ve found that professional growth often stems from embracing new perspectives, seeking alignment, and building trust through authentic connections.

Being named to SFNet’s 40 Under 40 list was more than a milestone—it was a reflection of consistent effort, integrity, and contributions that stand out in a competitive industry. SFNet created this recognition to spotlight professionals shaping the future of secured finance, and being selected brought a deeper awareness of the responsibility that comes with influence.

This acknowledgment not only elevated my visibility within the community but also validated the work I had been doing behind the scenes. Colleagues and peers began to view my role through a wider lens, opening up conversations that hadn’t happened before. It served as a reminder that growth is often recognized when you're focused on delivering value, not just seeking credit.

Starting Strong - Early Career Lessons

The early stages of my career were defined by a willingness to listen and an eagerness to learn. I didn’t always have the answers, but I made it a point to surround myself with people who had the experience I lacked. Their guidance helped me avoid missteps and shaped how I approach challenges now. I can still recall specific conversations that shifted my mindset and gave me the confidence to lean into uncertainty.

One of the most valuable lessons came through trial and error—learning how to ask questions, take ownership of mistakes, and remain curious even when the path wasn’t clear. Those early years weren’t glamorous, but they were critical. I took on roles that didn’t always match my long-term goals, yet each one taught me something essential about the business—and about myself.

Building Networks That Drive Careers Forward

Specialty finance is built on trust, and relationships are the currency that keep deals moving. I learned quickly that technical skill alone wasn’t enough. Being dependable, responsive, and thoughtful in interactions often opened more doors than a resume ever could. Trust, once earned, became a long-term asset that continued to pay off throughout different phases of my career.

What stood out most was how generosity within the secured finance community made a difference. People shared insights, made introductions, and offered guidance simply because they believed in supporting the next wave of professionals. It taught me to do the same for others, and that kind of reciprocity has been invaluable. In many ways, that spirit of giving back has become part of my approach to leadership.

Gaining Perspective and Seeing the Industry from Multiple Angles

Working across different teams gave me an appreciation for how interconnected every function is in specialty finance. Whether it was underwriting, relationship management, or risk, each role revealed a new layer of complexity and opportunity. That broad exposure helped me think more strategically and communicate more effectively across departments.

Rotating through these areas wasn’t always planned, but each shift forced me to adapt quickly and understand the business beyond my immediate responsibilities. It became clear that seeing the bigger picture wasn’t just helpful—it was essential to becoming a more well-rounded professional. Exposure to varied workflows also helped me understand how my work impacted downstream processes, strengthening my ability to collaborate effectively.

Staying Focused and Aligning Career Goals

Over time, I realized that progress felt more meaningful when it aligned with a deeper sense of purpose. It wasn’t just about landing the next role or promotion, but about choosing work that reflected what I cared about—integrity, collaboration, and lasting impact. That clarity made it easier to say no to distractions and yes to opportunities that aligned with my values.

Being intentional about skill development helped me avoid distractions and stay focused on long-term growth. I sought out opportunities that would stretch me, even when they felt slightly out of reach. Those moments pushed me forward faster than any formal training could have. Having a clear internal compass helped me navigate uncertainty with more confidence, especially during industry shifts or organizational changes.

Practical Takeaways for Emerging Professionals

If I could share one message with those just starting out, it would be to stay curious and stay connected. The most rewarding parts of my journey came from asking questions and building real relationships—not just networking for the sake of it, but truly investing in people. Curiosity has a way of unlocking opportunities that aren't always visible on the surface.

Don’t be afraid to raise your hand for something you’re not fully ready for. Growth rarely happens in comfort zones. And when possible, get involved in industry groups like SFNet early on. The exposure, support, and perspective you gain can shape your career in ways you won’t fully understand until later. Gradually, these small decisions compound into something much bigger than a resume—something that reflects character and commitment.

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