With a proven track record of transforming underperforming businesses into thriving, exit-ready enterprises, Joe Graci stands out as a forward-thinking leader and expert in operational excellence with industry-agnostic growth frameworks. With over 20 years of experience across US-centric, North American businesses, he excels in building marketable companies, leveraging innovation, and high-performance cultures to drive operational excellence and market differentiation. Joe has built $100M+ businesses, delivered private equity exits with 4x ROI, and developed AI-driven tools that revolutionize industries. A collaborative mentor with a passion for scaling organizations, Joe’s strategic insights have earned him accolades like the Canadian Business Excellence Award. His expertise spans multi-industry turnarounds, exit readiness, SaaS platforms, and forging distribution channel partnerships for sustained growth and profitability.

As the Growth Advisor and Entrepreneur at JOVA Ventures since 2021, Joe has been instrumental in guiding startups and mid-sized businesses toward scalable growth and investor appeal. His work includes crafting exit-oriented strategies, implementing AI-driven tools, and professionalizing operations to mitigate owner dependency risks. His leadership has consistently delivered acquisition offers, operational excellence, and robust growth trajectories for his clients.

Previously, Joe led Metal Networks.AI as CEO from 2021 to 2023, where he spearheaded the development of the industry’s first patent-pending AI technology, JAQI®, revolutionizing digital transformation in industrial B2B markets. His innovative approach prepared the company for strategic exit opportunities by consolidating ownership, building a SaaS marketplace platform, and enabling procurement and sales teams to scale effectively. His strategic vision drew acquisition interest and positioned Metal Networks.AI as a market leader.

Serving as Managing Partner of Interwork Technologies from 2011 to 2020, Joe directed operations for a $100M cybersecurity software distribution business across North America. During his tenure, he scaled revenues from $40M to $100M, increased EBITDA tenfold, and delivered nine consecutive years of growth. His operational restructuring initiatives saved over $1.5M while his focused leadership enhanced employee retention and performance. Joe’s efforts secured two successful private equity exits, earning a remarkable 4x ROI for investors.

Earlier, Joe excelled at Ingram Micro, where he was entrusted with launching the Wireless and Mobility division in Canada, achieving $100M+ in revenue in under 36 months. By building strategic partnerships with major wireless carriers and vendors, he created unique distribution channels and developed Canada’s first Distribution Activation Program in collaboration with all three major carriers. His leadership in the Networking Technology Business division further demonstrated his capacity to drive double-digit growth and establish operational efficiency.

In his prior career, Joe advanced through leadership roles at the Bank of Nova Scotia, where he managed a $100M portfolio and delivered significant improvements in cost efficiency, transaction volumes, and divisional revenues. His ability to negotiate advantageous contracts and implement innovative strategies contributed to the bank’s operational success.

Beyond his executive roles, Joe has actively contributed to industry advancement as an Advisory Board Member for Optimy.ai and CyberLucent, as well as Entrepreneur-in-Residence for Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU). His guidance has helped scale emerging technologies, secure funding, and establish product-market fit in competitive sectors like AI-driven sales platforms and cybersecurity solutions. Joe’s commitment to community extends to his service on the Board of Directors for the Silver Creek Centre for Early Learning and Development, where he chaired committees and implemented governance strategies.

Academically, Joe earned an Executive MBA from Athabasca University, graduating with the Highest GPA Award among 200 peers. He also holds a Bachelor of Administrative Studies in Marketing from York University and a Personal Financial Planning (PFP) designation from the Institute of Canadian Bankers.

Recognition for his leadership includes multiple Canadian Business Excellence Awards and top performance rankings in coaching and employee engagement. Known for fostering collaborative, KPI-driven cultures, Joe combines high emotional intelligence with a passion for mentorship and talent development.

Committed to lifelong learning and innovation, Joe continues to leverage cutting-edge technologies, operational strategies, and high-performance cultures to solve complex business challenges and deliver sustainable growth across dynamic and emerging markets.