Managing Partner
Wolverine Partners is led by Managing Partner John W. Kemp, who brings over four decades of experience as an operating executive, consultant, and investment banker. In 2022, Wolverine Partners successfully acquired Virtual Freight Inspections (VFI), the nation's leading freight inspection company.
Throughout his career, John has worked across a wide range of industries, including manufacturing and distribution, the automotive aftermarket, food, healthcare, retail, consumer goods, and business and financial services – and through the acquisition of VFI, trucking, logistics, and inspection services. He has consistently focused on delivering strong results for the organizations he has served, led, or owned, always prioritizing the success and satisfaction of customers, clients, employees, contractors, colleagues, and business partners – including trusted referral sources.
Earlier in his career, John played a pivotal role as the number two executive at Sears Automotive, leading a turnaround that resulted in a $150 million profit improvement over three years. In 2017, he was elected President of the Turnaround Management Association (TMA) Chicago/Midwest Chapter – the largest chapter globally – where he worked with more than sixty volunteer leaders to develop programming, educational content, and networking events that drove strong attendance and increased membership. As a middle-market investment banker, John was a trusted advocate for companies seeking to raise financing for future growth, navigate challenging situations, or plan for succession, ownership transition, or exit strategies.
John holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Michigan and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. He is a former Certified Turnaround Professional (CTP), a designation awarded to top professionals in the turnaround and restructuring industry. Prior to becoming an independent sponsor, John was an active member of several professional organizations, including the TMA, AM&AA, MBBI, SFNet, and ACG. He also served as a Governing Member of the Chicago Zoological Society (Brookfield Zoo) for nearly twenty-five years. His civic memberships today include the Economic Club of Chicago (ECC), and he has been a long time member of the University Club of Chicago.
