John Atkinson

John Atkinson is an operating partner at The Vistria Group within its financial services team. He is a recognized leader in the risk and human capital space. He has spent his career building companies and teams focused on helping clients navigate complex business problems.

Mr. Atkinson is a board director at Cradles to Crayons, as well as Argentum, a leading national trade organization serving the senior living industry. He is a member of the Board of Regents of Loyola University Chicago and the Board of Advisors of Catholic Charities of Chicago.

Before Governor Pritzker appointed John as Chair of the Illinois Economic Development Corporation in 2023, John served as  chairman of the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) where he led the board’s development of a new equity focused strategic plan called A Thriving Illinois for post secondary education in Illinois. He also served as the Chair of $27 billion State University Retirement System pension fund.

Mr. Atkinson and his wife have four adult children and reside in the suburbs of Chicago.