Our Staff
Mike Croxson, CEO has 30 years of experience in the financial services industry and has particular skills and inclinations for adapting new technology to meet the needs of consumers struggling with their financial situation. He served as president and COO for one of the nation’s largest and most innovative debt management companies and has held senior leadership roles in the areas of commercial banking, specialty financial services and credit card processing.
Scott Wolford, Program Director – Lending is an experienced CDFI professional who previously served on the executive team for a statewide CDFI business lender, where he honed his skills in business development, capitalization, and staff management. He also has four years of experience with small business development centers and SBTDC where he designed and delivered leadership development, planning, and business training initiatives, and provided technical assistance to small businesses. Scott is a skilled facilitator, mediator, financial counselor and strategic planner, and with past experience as a social worker, is acutely aware of the systemic barriers facing low-wage workers and historically disadvantaged populations.
Joe Battle, Program Director – Business Services is passionate about helping people and companies achieve their goals. He has years of experience advising NC entrepreneurs. Prior to joining CCI he led a state-wide team for CDFI business providing business counseling services. Co-founded a successful business providing counseling services to small business owners.
Steve Cole, CESI’s Director of Finance has more than 25 years of experience in accounting and finance, including internal auditing, corporate finance, and long range planning. Steve has been a licensed CPA for more than 20 years and is a certified BV auditor. He supports CCI in all financial management and compliance efforts, and oversees related bookkeeping and audit functions.
Atiya Ward, Executive Assistant has 6 years of experience with CESI and 15 in responsible executive assistant roles in the private and non-profit sectors. She takes loan inquiries, prepares credit reports, and coordinates development services and collections as needed.