Justin Bakes

Co-founder & Executive Chairman

Justin Bakes is the Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Forward Financing. Justin served as Forward’s CEO for 12 years, guiding its growth and building a culture based on lasting relationships with customers, partners, and employees. Prior to founding Forward Financing, Justin worked in mergers and acquisitions at Watsco, Inc. (NYSE: WSO) and began his career in investment banking at UBS Investment Bank.

Originally from South Florida, Justin earned a Bachelor of Science degree in finance from Boston College. He serves on the Board of Directors of Camp Harbor View, sits on the Advisory Board of the Campaign for Catholic Schools, and is an active member of the Young Presidents’ Organization. He lives in the greater Boston area with his wife and two young children.