Southern Auto Finance Co. (SAFCO) recently made its second strategic move so far this year, appointing Marissa Kaliman as its vice president of compliance and general counsel.

SAFCO highlighted Kaliman brings a wealth of expertise to its senior leadership team, possessing more than 14 years of legal and finance experience.

“We are delighted to welcome Marissa to our team as SAFCO’s new vice president of compliance and general counsel,” SAFCO CEO George Fussell said in a news release. “Her extensive legal background and track record of success make her a valuable asset to our team as we continue to uphold the highest standards of compliance and governance.”

Prior to joining SAFCO, Kaliman served as the associate general counsel at Off Lease Only, one of the largest independent dealers in the country. In this capacity, she led the legal department’s day-to-day operations, overseeing regulatory matters, compliance, contract negotiation, insurance claims and litigation.

With a strong foundation in both litigation and corporate practice, SAFCO highlighted Kaliman has also held positions at Givner Law Group, LLP, Akerman LLP, and O’Quinn Stumphauzer, P.L. Her notable achievements include leading in-state and out-of-state expansions, negotiating high-profile leases, and serving as special litigation counsel for a leading mortgage lender.

“SAFCO looks forward to the contributions of Ms. Kaliman as we strive for continued success in the financial services industry,” the company said.

In January, SAFCO announced that Colombia-based Finanzauto has acquired a minority equity stake in the company.