John Canning Jr.
John A. Canning Jr. | |
|---|---|
| Alma mater | Denison University (BA, 1966), Duke University (JD, 1969) |
| Occupation(s) | Private equity investor, sports executive |
| Years active | 1968–present |
| Known for | Founder and chairman of Madison Dearborn Partners |
John A. Canning Jr. is a prominent figure in private equity investment and sports management, recognized as the founder and chairman of Madison Dearborn Partners, a leading private equity firm headquartered in Chicago.
Career
Canning was among the pioneering investors in the field of private equity during the late 1970s and early 1980s. In 1992, he established Madison Dearborn Partners, which has successfully secured more than $14 billion in commitments from investors. Prior to founding Madison Dearborn, he oversaw private equity investments at First Chicago Corporation. His career began at The First National Bank of Chicago in 1968, where he spent 24 years, including roles as Executive Vice President and President of First Chicago Venture Capital, the entity that preceded Madison Dearborn.
Board Memberships
Canning holds board positions with several organizations, including:
- Minority ownership and board membership with the Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Club
- Exelon Corporation
- TransUnion
- Northwestern Memorial Hospital
- Children’s Inner City Educational Fund
- The Economic Club of Chicago
- Corning Incorporated
He also serves on the Boards of Trustees for:
- Northwestern University
- Field Museum of Natural History
- Museum of Science and Industry
- Big Shoulders Fund
Moreover, Canning contributes as a member of the Public Advisory Board for the American Joint Replacement Registry, acts as commissioner for the Irish Pension Reserve Fund, serves as trustee and chairman of The Chicago Community Trust, and holds the position of director and chairman at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago.
Education
Canning obtained his bachelor's degree from Denison University in 1966, followed by a J.D. degree from Duke University in 1969.
Awards
In recognition of his accomplishments in Business & Industry, John Canning Jr. was honored as a Laureate of The Lincoln Academy of Illinois and was awarded the Order of Lincoln, Illinois' highest distinction, by Governor Pat Quinn in 2014.