Ed Lhee

Ed Lhee, a key figure in the world of private equity as the co-founder of New Harbor Capital, has consistently championed the role of lower-middle market private equity in transforming small businesses. His philosophy, deeply rooted in his own life experiences, emphasizes the significant impact that thoughtful investment can have on the growth and success of entrepreneurial ventures. From his beginnings in Seoul, South Korea, to his leadership role in the American business landscape, his story is a testament to the power of resilience and strategic foresight. Ed was raised in Seoul by family members, and his parents worked to establish a new life in the United States. This early life, filled with lessons in adaptability and the importance of community, instilled in him a robust foundation of interpersonal skills and flexibility. When he was seven, he moved to Chicago to reunite with his parents, later settling in the city's northern suburbs. His education at New Trier High School, where he was actively involved in sports, provided him with insights into teamwork, leadership, and the importance of a unified cultural approach, all of which have informed his business strategies. Pursuing higher education, Ed attended the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied at the Wharton School of Business and the College of Arts and Sciences. His dual degrees in finance and psychology allowed him to develop a unique blend of skills that combine economic insight with an understanding of human behavior, which proved invaluable in his private equity career. After university, Ed's professional path began at Morgan Stanley, where he worked in the M&A and Corporate Finance Groups. Here, he acquired foundational skills in financial analysis and strategic business evaluation. He expanded these skills at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management, where he earned his MBA in 1997. Despite investment banking and consulting opportunities, Ed's passion lies in private equity. He joined Code Hennessy & Simmons in Chicago, where he honed his investment skills and embraced a deeper understanding of what it means to lead and grow businesses effectively.