Jon A. Ballis

Jon A. Ballis is a nationally acclaimed attorney and Chairman of Kirkland & Ellis LLP. With more than 30 years of experience, Jon has established himself as one of the country’s foremost legal advisors in private equity mergers and acquisitions. His legal practice has focused on advising leading private equity firms in complex, high-stakes transactions, earning him recognition as a trusted dealmaker and strategic advisor. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated deep legal insight, strong commercial judgment, and a commitment to delivering client-focused results.

Jon earned his J.D., cum laude, from Harvard Law School in 1994 and received his B.A. with High Honors from Lehigh University in 1991.

Admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1994, Jon joined Kirkland & Ellis LLP as a partner in 2005 and rose through various leadership roles before becoming Chairman in 2020. In addition to his legal work, Jon oversees firm-wide strategic initiatives and helps shape the cultural and business priorities of one of the world’s leading law firms. His leadership has helped drive growth across key practices and elevate standards of performance, client service, and collaboration across Kirkland & Ellis LLP’s global platform.

Beyond his legal practice, Jon A. Ballis is an influential figure in the broader legal and business community. He holds leadership positions on several civic and nonprofit boards, including Northwestern Hospital’s Board of Directors and Legal Aid Chicago’s Justice Circle. He is a member of the Commercial Club of Chicago and the Economic Club of Chicago and frequently serves as a guest lecturer at top law schools, including Harvard, Northwestern, and the University of Chicago. Recognized as one of the nation’s leading M&A attorneys, Jon continues to shape the future of corporate law through his legal expertise and leadership.

Law Office Affiliations

• Chairman, Kirkland & Ellis LLP
• Member, Chicago’s Civic Committee
• Member, Commercial Club of Chicago

Licensed State

• Illinois

Education

• Harvard Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Lehigh University
  BA with Cum Laude

Awards & Badges