40 Under 40: Chris Patterson
Senior Risk Manager, Northpoint Commercial Finance; With Company: 6 years
Chris Patterson mentors analysts and credit staff to help them sharpen their technical credit skills while appreciating the nuances of the RV business.
As a leader, he works to instill confidence in his team, encourage sound judgment and creates an environment where the team feels accountable and empowered. Chris acts as a bridge between finance executives, risk officers and sales teams. He empowers his team to do more than issue credit decisions; they explain the “why,” ensuring all stakeholders understand how credit strategies align with broader business goals and dealer partnerships.
Chris sets the tone for credit strategy by ensuring that Northpoint supports dealers with competitive financing while protecting the company’s portfolio. In the RV industry, where seasonality, market cycles and consumer demand fluctuate, Chris anticipates risks and develops policies that enable dealers to maximize sales without exposing Northpoint to unnecessary risk.
Chris directs his team to understand the unique needs of RV dealerships. This means building trust through quick, fair credit decisions; structuring lines that align with inventory turnover; and being proactive about adjustments during market shifts. By putting dealers’ success at the forefront, he demonstrates leadership that extends beyond internal teams to industry partners.
Though he does not operate in a metric driven environment, his supervisor and mentor, Evan Jones, chief risk officer at Northpoint, says that “he’s an indispensable role player for us, making sure deals in the abstract are good in the particular and align with our risk appetite.”
Northpoint’s top honor, the Britton Award, is given annually to a single recipient. The award is named after a floorplan finance legend, Jerry Britton. Chris received the Jerry Britton Award for Northpoint in 2023.
One of nomination entries said: “Chris Patterson. One of the most professionally driven individuals I have had the pleasure of working with at Northpoint. He constantly strives to improve our processes and utilize personal achievements made by the employees, for the betterment of the company. While he is very humble about the achievements he has made so far, everyone in our office can attest to how detrimental it would be to lose him as a team member. With his wide range of knowledge for the business from the years of legwork he has done to understand the world of Northpoint fully, it isn’t hard to see that he is the future of the company and will continue to do great things.”
Chris follows college football and specifically cheers on the Georgia Bulldogs. He also spends time with his wife, Emily, and son, Drew, who just turned 15 months old. He and his wife love trying new restaurants, but since having Drew, they enjoy trying out new recipes at home.
What advice do you have for up-and-coming leaders in the RV industry?
Stay focused on what customers truly value and be ready to adapt as their needs evolve. The RV industry moves quickly, so staying curious and informed about emerging trends is key. Strong leadership is built on clarity, consistency and the ability to step up during challenges. One principle that’s guided me is that consistency builds trust — showing up reliably, especially in tough moments, makes a lasting impact.
What it means to you to be a 40 Under 40 honoree?
Being named a 40 Under 40 honoree is a tremendous honor. It highlights the critical role that strong credit management plays in supporting the RV industry’s continued growth. I’m proud to be recognized alongside so many talented professionals who are shaping the future of this dynamic industry.
