Forward Financing Names New Chief Commercial Officer

July 10, 2024 | Company News

July 10, 2024 – Forward Financing is excited to welcome Val Gui as its Chief Commercial Officer (CCO).

Gui brings a wealth of invaluable experience innovating, both as an entrepreneur and business operator. He was formerly the Vice President & General Manager of Automotive Lending at Upstart, an online lending platform, a multi-time business founder, and has served as a venture investor, working with dozens of startups. During his tenure at Upstart, Gui led cross-functional teams across Go-To-Market, Sales, Marketing, Product, Engineering, and AI/Machine Learning. He also spearheaded a strategic acquisition that enabled the business to explore new market opportunities.

“We are thrilled to have Val join Forward. With his proven track record of helping companies grow and continue innovating, he will be an invaluable addition to the team,” says Justin Bakes, Forward’s Co-Founder & CEO. “I’m confident that his role as Chief Commercial Officer and the knowledge he brings will help take Forward to new heights.”

Gui will be responsible for overseeing all Forward Sales teams and functions including New Sales, Renewal Sales, Business Development, Partnerships, and Sales Operations.

“I understand the critical role companies like Forward play in the financing ecosystem,” said Gui. “I’m excited to join the Forward Financing team and contribute to enhancing its positive impact on the small business community.”

Gui has a Bachelors of Science degree in Economics with a focus on Sales and Marketing from the University of Michigan.

About Forward Financing

Forward Financing is a financial technology company headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts with an operational hub in Santiago, Dominican Republic that provides fast, flexible capital to US small businesses that have been long underserved by traditional financing options. Forward offers revenue-based financing – delivering an upfront sum of working capital in exchange for a set amount of the business’s future revenue. By simplifying the requirements, streamlining the process, and using advanced proprietary technology, Forward is often able to deliver approvals within hours and funds that same day — giving more businesses the financial opportunity they need to thrive. Plus, with their dedicated teams and award-winning service, customers get personalized support when they need it most.

Since 2012, Forward has expanded access to capital by providing over $2.8 billion in funding to more than 61,000 small businesses. The company is A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau with an Excellent / 4.8 stars rating on Trustpilot.com. Forward is also recognized as a Best Place to Work by Built In Boston, certified as a Great Place to Work®, and is committed to helping their people and the small businesses they serve to achieve their full potential.