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Maybe being in the credit and collection industry for more than four decades has jaded Dave Avellis a little bit, but that hasn’t stopped him from establishing himself as a leader and mentor. In fact, maybe it’s helped shape his advice and guidance and made him a better leader. It’s ok to take, but never take more than you give … advice he lives by to this day. Read on to learn more about Dave, his love of classic rock, and how he finds peace among the chaos.
Name: Dave Avellis
Job Title: President | CEO | Consultant
Company: Rogues12 Consulting — Current Assignment: Wesley Financial
Length of time at current company: 5 years, 2 months
Length of time in industry: Over four decades
How did you get your start in the industry?
Like many in the collections industry, I started out by accident. I took a summer job as a collector at Sears in Salem, Mass., during high school. It was supposed to be temporary, but it got in my blood. I’ve never worked outside of the collections space since then — it’s where I’ve built my entire career.
What is your career highlight so far?
On a personal level, having a mentor like Scott Swonger stands out. He believed in me so much that he recruited me three different times in the exact same way — that kind of loyalty and belief leaves a mark. Professionally, it’s a combination of two things: consistently driving performance and results for the companies I’ve worked with, and the turnarounds I’ve led through my consulting work. Helping businesses find stability and growth again is incredibly rewarding.
When or how are you most productive?
Early mornings, without a doubt. I joke about it often: I can complete a project at 4am in 20 minutes and have it come out perfect. Try the same task at 4pm, and it might take two hours — and the result may not even be passable.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
Tina Hodges from Advance Financial. She’s the definition of a self-driven leader. She holds herself and those around her to incredibly high standards — but always leads with empathy, compassion, and integrity.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
I don’t believe there’s one single thing I do better than everyone else. What sets me apart is the ability to combine key skills — strategic thinking, communication, accountability, and mentorship — into an approach that drives success across the board.
What do you like most about this industry?
The people, hands down. This industry embraces individuals from all walks of life — many of whom didn’t have a fair starting point. I’ve seen people who felt like castaways from the “island of misfit toys” thrive here. With just a bit of guidance or encouragement, they become rock stars. I’m constantly inspired and proud of the people I’ve worked alongside.
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
The industry has come a long way from the “wild west” days when collectors could say virtually anything to a consumer. We’ve evolved into a more customer-centric and service-oriented business, and that’s a huge win. But if I could change one thing instantly, it would be the public’s perception. Even with all the progress, when I tell someone new what I do, it’s often met with, “Oh… you’re one of those people.” I’d love for our industry to be seen for what it truly is — a space of opportunity, professionalism, and growth.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
To quote the legendary Derek Smalls from Spinal Tap: “I’d be a full-time dreamer.”
Describe a typical work day.
Managed chaos. My job is often about unwinding the mess — figuring out what went wrong and setting things right. It keeps me sharp and on my toes.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Classic rock. I’ve got a long commute, and I spend that time blasting all the hits from the ’70s and ’80s. It’s my rolling concert, and it keeps me energized.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
“It’s okay to take — just never take more than you give.” That philosophy has shaped how I lead, mentor, and do business.
What are you currently reading?
“The Warriors” by Sol Yurick. It’s the book that inspired the cult-classic movie from the late ’70s. I’ve read it countless times, and it never gets old.
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
After so many years in this business, I may come across as a little gruff or jaded — but at my core, I’m still a good guy who genuinely cares. And that still counts for something.
