John Ballis – Chairman of the Executive Committee at Kirkland & Ellis

John Ballis is Chairman of the Executive Committee at Kirkland & Ellis, one of the world’s leading law firms with 6,500 professionals (including more than 3,000 attorneys) around the world committed to the highest quality legal advice and unparalleled client service.

As a result of that commitment, revenue at the firm increased 11.5% per year on average over the past decade while profits per equity partner surged nearly 20%. He plans to continue that trend and expects the firm’s growth to continue, especially in M&A practice.

Early Life and Education

john ballis was born in Fairibault, Minnesota, where he honed his wits in the family dry cleaning business. After high school, he enlisted in the Marine Corps where he repaired radar equipment and torpedo bombers. Aside from his military exploits, he also founded National Land for People, a grass roots group dedicated to fighting large agricultural interests. He was a pioneer in utilizing social media to advance his cause. He remains an unapologetic activist to this day. During his long and storied career, he has authored a number of books, authored hundreds of articles for national publications, launched several successful non-profit organizations, and been credited with advancing the cause of environmental awareness in the Central Valley. One of his proudest achievements was a lifetime achievement award from the state of California.

Professional Career

As chairman of Kirkland & Ellis, Jon Ballis is in charge of a firm that last year handled more mergers and acquisitions than any other. Its revenue increased 11.5% per year and its profits per equity partner rose 7.6%.

That kind of growth isn’t easy to achieve. A recent Bloomberg Law article highlighted the firm’s reputation for brutally long hours, unforgiving deadlines and sharp-elbowed political jockeying.

It’s part of the legacy that Jeff Hammes has left behind. He’s been known to pay top dollar for star lateral recruits who are willing to put in the extra work.

Achievements and Honors

Aside from his many years at Kirkland & Ellis, Ballis was also known for his contributions to the local community. He served on the board of directors at the Fresno County Medical Research Foundation and was a founding member of the Fresno Chamber of Commerce’s business development committee. He also helped launch the Central Valley Business Forum, a networking event for small and mid-sized businesses.

He was also a self-described jack of all trades, a mix of finance, real estate, marketing, operations, and technology. Aside from his many accolades, his most significant achievement was helping to create a highly engaged employee culture at his firm. This is a feat that most companies strive for, but few manage to accomplish. With this goal in mind, he founded his own consulting company, Ballis Associates.

Personal Life

John Ballis is a businessman and investor who owns several real estate properties. He has also been involved in a number of charitable activities.

He is a supporter of various causes, including cancer research. He donates to the American Cancer Society and other organizations.

In addition to his work, he enjoys spending time with his family. He has four children and 13 grandchildren.

In his free time, he likes to watch horse races. He owns a horse named Groovy, who has won a number of races. He also has been involved in a variety of other endeavors, such as the National Land for People movement.

Net Worth

john ballis is the chairman of Kirkland & Ellis, one of the world’s leading law firms. With 6,500 professionals in more than 3,000 offices, Kirkland is committed to providing the highest quality legal advice and unparalleled client service.

During his career, Ballis has advised private equity firms like Bain Capital and Madison Dearborn on leveraged buyouts of public and private companies. He also has served on the firm’s global management executive committee. As the new head of Kirkland, Ballis is expected to usher in a more consensual style of leadership that will help the firm continue its transformation from challenger to the world’s top law firm. Currently, he has a net worth of $3 million. He was born on May 24, 1986. He has been married to Joni Ballis.