BFS Capital swings in new ex-axe throwing exec
Small business loan provider BFS Capital has announced its new chief operating officer (COO), Brian Simmons.
The new COO comes from international axe throwing event company BATL, based in Toronto, Canada, where he managed its operations.
BFS Capital will need Simmons to oversee its transition to a fully digital-enabled lending platform
Backed by Canadian investment bank FirePower Capital, BATL saw Simmons work as part of its executive team for more than five years.
Alongside this, Simmons founded the International Axe Throwing Federation (IATF) which promotes axe throwing as an official sport.
Slightly different from his past ventures, BFS Capital will need Simmons to oversee its transition to a fully digital-enabled lending platform and plan its international expansion.
“I’m excited to help Mark [Ruddock – BFS Capital’s CEO] and the company usher in new digital processes which brings improved transparency and a seamless new customer experience to the small business lending space,” says Simmons.
Before his axe throwing days, Simmons served as head of product at Wonga, a payday lender which went bust last year. Here Simmons became the first North American employee and established a beachhead in the region.
The newly-appointed COO also has experience from online auction company OpenLane, where he stayed for nearly ten years and became responsible for the company’s growth strategies.
“Brian, who I have known for many years, brings strong leadership in digital transformation, extensive know-how in consumer credit products, and an entrepreneurial spirit to round out our executive team,” says Ruddock.
Related: Eileen Burbidge steps down as chair of digital bank Tide
