Finova Group Inc., Phoenix, has promoted deputy treasurer Meilee Smythe to treasurer in investor relations with the rank of senior vice president.
Previously a vice president, Ms. Smythe succeeded Robert J. Fitzsimmons, who retired in June.
Before joining Finova in 1988, Ms. Smythe was a vice president in corporate lending at Continental Illinois National Bank, which BankAmerica Corp. bought in 1994.
Finova also promoted Melissa Huckins to vice president and assistant treasurer. She was vice president of short-term funding.
Virginia Nelson was promoted to vice president of cash management and treasury operations. She has been director of cash management.
Downey Financial Corp., Newport Beach, Calif., has promoted Daniel D. Rosenthal to chief operating officer of the holding company and its Downey Savings and Loan Association.
He will remain president of DSL Service Co., Downey's real estate development subsidiary, a job he has held since 1994. He will also remain director of major loans at the bank.
Mr. Rosenthal joined the company in 1975.
