Meet the Founder & Principal

Erik Forstall is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of experience in management, sales, and finance, complemented by expertise in international business and cross-cultural operations.

Fluent in French and with a career spanning the United States and Europe, he brings a global perspective and a proven ability to drive results across diverse industries. Known for fostering innovation, cultivating strategic partnerships, and driving sustainable growth, Erik combines visionary leadership with hands-on expertise.

Originally from Los Angeles, California, Erik began his career in financial market trading, specializing in foreign exchange at Banque Paribas and short-term instruments at Credit Suisse. He further advanced his skill set by constructing hedge fund portfolios for London-based investment firms, providing risk and marketing consulting to US alternative asset management groups, and leading Treasury Finance and Risk operations at Cisco Systems, cementing his reputation as a strategic financial leader. At Cisco, Erik’s contributions played a key role in the company receiving the prestigious Alexander Hamilton Treasury and Risk Award.

Building on his financial expertise, Erik transitioned to broader management and sales roles. As Chief Financial Officer of a promising startup, he secured €25 million in investor commitments and optimized the company’s financial and operational structures. At Rolex, he oversaw sales and operations, personally generating $14 million in revenue over a three-year period, a testament to delivering measurable outcomes. Most recently, as Executive Vice President at Gladius, Erik developed comprehensive plans for the North American market expansion of the company’s Westpoint subsidiary, navigating complex challenges posed by global tariffs and shifting cost structures.

Erik holds a bachelor's degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and an MBA from the University of Nevada, Reno, along with advanced studies in business and communications at the Sorbonne University in Paris. Erik is also a proud father of three college-aged children.