Jim Forward president

Creative & Visionary

Jim’s career began when he drew “Blinky” and “The Pirate,” submitted them for evaluation and was told he had what it takes to be a commercial artist. He then went on to graduate from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and worked at a flurry of agencies before starting his own: Forward branding & identity.

Jim claims his outside-the-box mentality stemmed from shows like Mad Magazine and Saturday Night Live in the early years - parodies made him question how things work.

Jokes aside, Jim is brilliant. He’s a leader and visionary, and he’s not afraid to roll up his sleeves and get right into the design pit with the best of ’em. Jim is always teaching someone something. His giving and encouraging approach has led his clients and employees to become branding masters themselves.

Jim has taught at local universities, sat on numerous boards of directors, and won the Rochester Business Journal’s inaugural “40 Under 40” Awards, which recognize Rochesterians under age 40 who have made outstanding professional and civic contributions and are regarded as the community’s next generation of leaders.

He also has 3 gorgeous daughters (one of whom is a Buffalo Jill) and a beautiful, loving wife.

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What makes a great brand: “Obsessive customers - tribal consciousness and an unmet need.”

Top 5 Brands: