Consumer-focused investment firm CAVU Consumer Partners has announced a significant leadership update, promoting Jared Jacobs to the role of Managing Partner. Jacobs, a pivotal member of the team since 2017, now joins Co-Founders Brett Thomas and Rohan Oza in steering the firm's strategic direction. This appointment not only recognizes his substantial contributions but also positions CAVU for its next chapter of growth and investment in disruptive consumer brands.
Expanded Responsibilities and Strategic Vision
In his newly expanded role, Jacobs will take on greater responsibility for shaping CAVU’s overarching investment strategy while continuing to lead deal-sourcing and execution. He will maintain his focus on the high-growth pet, human nutrition, and wellness verticals, areas where he has already demonstrated significant expertise and success. This strategic enhancement to the leadership team is designed to sharpen the firm's competitive edge as it continues to identify and nurture emerging market leaders.
A History of Impactful Investments
Throughout his tenure at CAVU, Jacobs has built a reputation for his hands-on engagement and thoughtful guidance, which have been central to scaling brands through critical growth phases. His influence is reflected in his work with several of the firm's portfolio companies, and he currently serves on the Board of Directors of Once Upon a Farm. This track record demonstrates his ability to partner effectively with management teams to achieve meaningful milestones and drive long-term value.
Acclaim from Firm Co-Founders
The promotion was accompanied by strong endorsements from CAVU's co-founders, who highlighted Jacobs' unique skill set and alignment with the firm's values. Brett Thomas praised his rare ability to build authentic relationships with founders and identify consumer trends before they become mainstream, noting he "earns trust quickly." This sentiment underscores the confidence the firm's leadership has in his capabilities to guide both portfolio companies and CAVU's internal strategy forward.
A Partner Embodying Firm Values
Co-Founder Rohan Oza further emphasized that Jacobs embodies the core principles of a CAVU partner, citing his exceptional brand instincts and deep empathy for the entrepreneurial journey. Oza remarked on his "unwavering commitment to our mission of helping purpose-driven companies reach their full potential," reinforcing the cultural fit. This shared vision and dedication are seen as critical components for the firm's continued success in a competitive investment landscape.
A Foundation in Finance and Private Equity
Jacobs' career path provided a strong foundation for his success in consumer investing, beginning with a role as an Analyst in the M&A group at Morgan Stanley. He subsequently honed his expertise in the sector as an Associate in the consumer and retail group at private equity firm AEA Investors. His academic background includes a Bachelor of Business Administration with high distinction from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business.
The elevation of Jared Jacobs to Managing Partner is a clear reflection of CAVU's strategy to cultivate and promote top talent from within its own ranks. Jacobs himself expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and reiterated his excitement for continuing to back the next generation of iconic consumer brands. This move solidifies the firm's leadership for the future, ensuring it remains well-positioned to execute its mission of partnering with visionary founders.