Kinzie Capital Partners, based in Chicago, is a private equity firm making significant strides in the lower middle market. Founded and led by Suzanne Yoon, a seasoned investment professional, Kinzie focuses on control investments across manufactured products, business services, and consumer industries. The firm distinguishes itself through an operational focus and a commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to unlock value and propel portfolio companies forward.
At the helm of Kinzie Capital Partners is Suzanne Yoon, the Founder and Managing Partner. Her leadership extends to chairing the Investment Committee for Kinzie and holding Board Chair positions within Kinzie’s portfolio companies. These include Colony Display, Chelsea Lighting, GT Golf Holdings, and Arctic Industries, showcasing the diverse range of businesses under Kinzie Capital Partners‘ guidance. Yoon’s vision for Kinzie Capital Partners, launched in 2017, centers on proactively using technology and innovative strategies to create tangible improvements and growth for companies. This approach has earned Kinzie Capital Partners industry recognition, including being named the North American Female Founded Firm of the Year by the Private Equity Women Investor Network (PEWIN) in 2020.
Suzanne Yoon brings over 25 years of experience to Kinzie Capital Partners, with a deep background in investing in and advising middle market companies. Prior to establishing Kinzie Capital Partners, she held key senior roles at Versa Capital Management, CIT Group, and LaSalle Bank/ABN AMRO. Her early career foundations were built in the Special Assets Group and Restructuring Advisory at LaSalle Bank and Ernst and Young’s Corporate Finance group, respectively. This extensive experience provides a robust foundation for her leadership at Kinzie Capital Partners, informing the firm’s strategic investment decisions and operational oversight.
Beyond her accomplishments at Kinzie Capital Partners, Suzanne is recognized for her broader influence in both business and civic arenas. She has served on numerous private company and civic boards, including the National Philanthropic Trust, Chicago’s John G. Shedd Aquarium, and the University of Iowa Center for Advancement. Her engagement extends to leadership roles within industry organizations such as the Steering Committee of the Women’s Association of Venture & Equity (WAVE) and active participation in PEWIN. She is also a member of the Illinois Venture Capital Association and The Chicago Network, further solidifying her position as a prominent figure in the financial and business community.
Suzanne’s academic credentials include a B.A. in Economics from the University of Iowa and Executive Scholar status from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management. Her expertise has been consistently recognized by industry publications. Mergers & Acquisitions has repeatedly named Yoon among the Most Influential Women in Mid-Market M&A from 2020 to 2023. The Wall Street Journal acknowledged her as a Top Female Deal Maker Shaping Private Equity’s Present and Future in 2019, and Chicago United honored her as a Business Leader of Color in 2021. These accolades highlight the significant impact Suzanne Yoon and Kinzie Capital Partners are making in the private equity landscape.
Based in Chicago, Suzanne balances her demanding professional life at Kinzie Capital Partners with family life, enjoying outdoor activities and sports with her husband and three children.
