Zac Swarthout

About Zac Swarthout

I am a business lender, advisor, and former small-business owner who is passionate about helping entrepreneurs build stronger, more resilient companies. Over the past several years, I’ve worked hands-on with hundreds of small businesses across diverse industries—many of them navigating challenges that traditional lenders weren’t able to support. My focus has always been the same: meet owners where they are, help them stabilize and grow, and guide them toward long-term bankability.Before entering the lending world, I spent more than a decade operating and growing my own companies in the hospitality and retail sectors. That experience taught me what cash flow stress really feels like, what it takes to make payroll, how to build teams, and how to make strategic decisions in uncertain moments. It continues to shape how I show up for clients today—with empathy, practicality, and a commitment to helping them succeed.In my current work in small-business lending and advising, I specialize in: Commercial and small-business lending — structuring loans, analyzing financials, and evaluating risk Business advising and strategic support — helping businesses grow, stabilize, or become bankable Partnership development — collaborating with banks, credit unions, EDAs, and community organizations Credit readiness and financial coaching — guiding entrepreneurs through projections, cash flow, and planning Community-focused relationship building — supporting local businesses and rural economiesWhat drives me is the belief that strong businesses strengthen communities. I thrive in environments where relationship banking still matters, where advice is as important as capital, and where solving complex challenges alongside owners is part of the job.If you\'re looking to connect about commercial lending, community banking, small-business advising, or partnership opportunities, I\'d love to connect.

Experience

1. Business Banking Relationship Manager

   Old National Bank

   Feb 2026 — Present · Brainerd, MN, US

Education

• Central Lakes College

  Business Management, Business/Commerce, General, PSEO

  1999 — 2001

• Metro State University

  Master of Business Administration - MBA, Business Administration and Management, General

  2016 — 2018

• Metro State University

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Economics

  2001 — 2003

• Brainerd High School

  High School Diploma, General

  1997 — 1999

Skills

• Bar Management
• Budgeting
• Entrepreneurship
• Golf Resorts
• Ski Resorts
• Hospitality
• Business Planning
• Marketing Management
• Email Marketing
• Restaurant Management
• Hotels
• Full P&L Responsibility
• Budgets
• Social Media Marketing
• Hotel Administration
• Resorts
• Customer Satisfaction
• Golf
• New Business Development
• Hospitality Industry
• Yield Management
• Restaurants
• Food & Beverage
• Revenue Forecasting
• Financial Analysis
• Event Management
• Hotel Booking
• Revenue Cycle Management
• Profit Margins