Ed Lhee, the co-founder of New Harbor Capital, is a distinguished figure in the field of private equity, particularly known for his work in the lower-middle market. His commitment to leveraging private equity as a force for growth in small businesses is rooted in his experiences, from his upbringing in Seoul, South Korea, to becoming a leader in the American business community. His journey underscores his dedication to nurturing entrepreneurial talent and fostering transformative business opportunities.

Raised in Seoul by various family members while his parents were in the United States, Ed learned the importance of adaptability and resilience early in life. These lessons in overcoming challenges and building strong relationships shaped his future approaches to business and leadership. At seven, he moved to Chicago to reunite with his parents, later settling in the northern suburbs. He attended New Trier High School, where his involvement in team sports like basketball and baseball taught him about teamwork, leadership, and the importance of cultivating a winning culture.

Ed’s pursuit of education led him to the University of Pennsylvania, where he attended the Wharton School of Business and the College of Arts and Sciences. He completed dual degrees in finance and psychology, which provided him with a robust understanding of market dynamics and human behavior—insights that would prove invaluable in his private equity career.

After college, Ed began his professional career at Morgan Stanley in the M&A and Corporate Finance Groups. This role provided him with a solid foundation in financial analysis and strategic business operations. He further refined his skills at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, where he earned his MBA in 1997.

Portfolio: https://edlhee.com/