Jacob Swain

About Jacob Swain

Private equity–backed CEO and CFO who builds teams, fixes underperforming assets, and drives cash-generating growth through disciplined execution and AI-enabled operations.Track record includes reversing EBITDA erosion, leading successful exits, executing IPOs, and developing AI-powered platforms that expand margins and scale efficiently.Highlights:• Delivered major EBITDA turnaround for media company; reduced DSO and restructured debt.• Built “Robot Radio,” an AI-driven SaaS platform serving a nationwide network and transforming cost structure.• Led industrial services company through PE-backed exit with strong investor returns.• Served as CFO of NASDAQ-listed company; led IPO, SEC reporting, and investor relations.Core Strengths: Turnarounds | P&L Leadership | Private Equity Value Creation | M&A & IPO Execution | AI & Automation | Team Building | Working Capital Optimization | Board & Investor RelationsIndustries: Media | Industrial Services | Technology | Manufacturing | Investment ManagementTransactions: IPO | M&A (Buy/Sell-Side)| Divestitures | SPAC | Debt Restructuring | ABL

Experience

1. CEO

   Gow Media

   Jan 2023 — Present

   At Gow Media, I led a multi-brand media portfolio through a successful turnaround and exit preparation, backed by high-net-worth investors. Delivered substantial EBITDA improvement, improved lender terms, and unlocked working capital by reducing DSO by one-third.AI & Digital Transformation:• Built Robot Radio, an AI-enabled SaaS platform serving a nationwide radio affiliate network. Automated content production, reduced cycle times, and achieved high-margin, ad-driven profitability.• Modernized and consolidated multiple digital properties to enhance performance, SEO, and domain authority.• Launched Tournify, a digital promotions platform that opened a new, high-growth revenue stream.Financial & Operational Leadership:• Negotiated improved capital structure and increased financial flexibility.• Implemented rolling forecasts, KPI dashboards, and initiative tracking to institutionalize operating rhythm.• Integrated analytics and reporting tools to strengthen decision-making and reduce reporting cycle time.Team & Governance:• Partnered with the Board and investors to align strategy and communicate performance.• Built and scaled cross-functional teams across finance, sales, and technology.• Enhanced financial controls and forecasting capabilities through strategic leadership hires.

Education

• University of Hawaii at Manoa

  Bachelor's, Business Administration

• University of Houston-Clear Lake

  Master of Science (M.S.), Computer Science

• Rice Business

  Master of Business Administration (MBA)