John Whalen

John Whalen spearheads Kroll Capital™’s deal origination, driving a dynamic pipeline of strategic transactions that align with our clients’ growth objectives. With over two decades of corporate development experience, John has identified and negotiated hundreds of middle‑market deals—spanning technology, engineered manufacturing, value‑added distribution, and business services.

Renowned for his proactive outreach and deep industry relationships, John expertly guides each opportunity from initial exploration through closing and transition. He combines comprehensive market research with nuanced negotiation skills to ensure every deal maximizes shareholder value while minimizing risk. Clients rely on John’s unwavering dedication and transparent communication to confidently navigate complex transactions.

John earned his B.S in Finance from the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign and pursued graduate studies at the University of Illinois Chicago. He remains an active contributor to industry forums and professional associations, sharing insights that shape best practices in M&A.

Education & Credentials

• B.S. in Finance, University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign

• Graduate Studies, University of Illinois Chicago

• Member, ACG

Fun Facts

• John is right at home when playing pickleball, cycling, fishing, golfing, and traveling internationally.