Lisa Forrest
Lisa Forrest
Head of Search Fund Lending Self-Funded SBA, Live Oak Bank
Lisa Forrest is the head of Live Oak Bank’s self-funded search lending vertical and has more than 35 years of banking experience. She is nationally recognized for her expertise in SBA and conventional lending for small and midsize businesses in the lower middle market, specializing in transactions up to $15 million in enterprise value.
Forrest previously held leadership roles at Banc of California, Union Bank, and Fortune Bank and helped establish Wells Fargo’s SBA sales presence in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. She also served as chief operating officer of The Money Store/First Union.
She holds a BS in finance and economics and an MBA from California State University, Sacramento. A frequent speaker at ETA conferences and guest on industry podcasts, Forrest is also an active mentor to the military veteran, SMB, and search fund communities. Outside of work, she enjoys golf, outdoor activities, and spending time with her dogs.