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Copper River Funding LLC

Meet the Leadership Team at CRF

At CRF, our leadership team brings years of expertise in finance, real estate, and lending. Committed to providing fast, flexible, and customer-focused solutions, our leaders ensure that CRF remains a trusted partner for real estate investors, developers, and business owners. With a deep understanding of the market, our team works tirelessly to deliver exceptional service and innovative financing options tailored to meet our clients' needs.

Craig T. Gaudio, Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

With extensive experience in both finance and real estate, our CEO drives the vision and strategic direction of CRF. Focused on innovation and customer service, they ensure we consistently deliver value to our clients. Mr. Gaudio, co-founded the Company and Copper River Funding, LLC, and previously ran Nexus Financial Group, a loan brokerage. His past roles include CEO of Environmental Solutions, where he developed waste-to-energy projects overseas, and executive positions with Tetridyne Solutions and OTC Capital Ltd. In addition to his business career, he directed social ministries at St. John Lutheran Church and currently serves as Idaho State Director for Ducks Unlimited, promoting wetland conservation.

Michael S. Peart, Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

The CFO manages CRF's financial health, ensuring we offer competitive rates and sustainable growth. His financial expertise allows us to provide tailored loan solutions that meet both client and market demands. Mr. Peart, co-founded Copper River Funding, LLC, and previously co-founded Nexus Financial Group, a loan brokerage. He earned a Bachelor of Science from Florida State University in 1993 and served distinguishably in the U.S. Army. Mr. Peart is also a member of the American Association of Private Lenders and the National Ethics Association.

Timothy M. Stamps, Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Our COO oversees the day-to-day operations, ensuring smooth processes and efficient loan approvals. With a passion for operational excellence, they keep CRF running at peak performance. Mr. Stamps cofounded the company and has specialized in commercial real estate loans since 2008, with experience in conventional and SBA lending, managing large loan portfolios, and private bridge financing. He holds a BBA in Marketing from Sam Houston State University and an MBA in Entrepreneurship from the University of Oklahoma. As a former college football player, he values teamwork and collaboration to achieve common goals.

Melissa Watson, In-house Lending Counsel

Melissa Watson serves as the In-House Lending Counsel at Copper River Funding, LLC, where she leverages her extensive background in private commercial lending and real estate law. Since joining Copper River Funding in September 2024, Melissa has been instrumental in overseeing complex lending transactions and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Prior to this role, she practiced law at a leading local real estate law firm and fee attorney office, where she focused on real estate contracts, title issues, and commercial transactions for over four years. Melissa also gained valuable experience as both an Escrow Officer and Fee Attorney with Fidelity National Title. In that role, she managed escrow accounts and facilitated smooth closings for real estate deals. Her comprehensive legal expertise, combined with her dedication to client service, makes her a vital asset to the Copper River Funding team.

A Message from Our Leadership Team

“At CRF, we believe in more than just providing loans. We are committed to empowering our clients by offering reliable, fast, and flexible financing solutions that help them achieve their real estate goals. Our team works closely with each client to deliver a seamless loan experience from start to finish.”

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