Private Equity Value Creation Podcast Ep. 97: Rita Ferrandino, Arc Capital Development | The Downturn Playbook: How to Thrive When Growth Stalls and Disruption Accelerates
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Oct 30, 2025 Rita Ferrandino, Co-founder of Arc Capital Development, specializes in propelling growth for education companies and advising on AI-driven transformations. In this conversation, she reveals a playbook for navigating economic downturns, emphasizing the importance of risk assessment and financial health. Rita warns against superficial AI applications and advises companies to solidify existing customer relationships and build top-tier teams before integrating new technologies. She highlights unique challenges posed by AI in today's market and the necessity for strategic pre-planning.
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AI Changes Market Consumption Patterns
- AI is changing how customers consume products and services, so old delivery models won't suffice.
- Rita warns that simply "AI-ifying" legacy products won't stop market erosion or declining revenue.
Begin With A Risk-First Strategic Review
- Start with a risk analysis and quantify the risk of doing nothing, safe moves, and proactive actions.
- Use that risk view to shape a strategic plan rather than rushing to bolt on AI.
Clean Up Financials Before New Bets
- Fix financial hygiene: know cash, costs, and prioritize investments with new-market realities in mind.
- Combine that with a product/service diversification review anchored to customer needs.
