Gerber Finance announced Barry Karen has joined the team as Senior Vice President. Barry will be responsible for covering the New York, New Jersey and the mid-Atlantic region.

Prior to joining Gerber, Karen held senior positions with Fleet Bank, CIT and Israel Discount Bank focusing on asset-based loans and financial lending services to both public and privately held companies ensuring strong operations and growth. Karen has more than 40 years’ experience with hundreds of companies in a wide range of industries; including consumer products, apparel, manufacturing, distribution, wholesale, importing, real estate investment and financial lending.

He has always been active in the industry and currently is a member of the CFA and a board member of the New Jersey CFA chapter. Before joining the industry, Karen graduated from Columbia University with a Master Degree in Business Administration.

We have known Barry for many years and feel privileged and honored that he has joined Gerber,” said Jennifer Palmer, President. “Barry brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will add tremendous value to our portfolio as it grows. In particular, Barry’s experience in working with finance companies provides a unique perspective when evaluating credits. We also feel confident that due to Barry’s energy and enthusiasm he can help us expand our geographic footprint and introduce us to new and exciting opportunities.”

Gerber Finance Inc. is an asset-based lender located in New York, NY. Founded in 1995, Gerber is the product of a joint venture between Investec and the Gerber Goldschmidt Group, a leading International trading company, both based in South Africa. Gerber Finance provides businesses with credit lines from $500,000 to $10 million and specializes in financing the growth of importers, distributors, service providers, and manufacturers across a wide range of industries.