John Kerschen is President and Managing Partner of Charter Capital, where he has been a driving force in West Michigan’s investment banking community for nearly 30 years. Since taking ownership of Charter in 2006, he has transformed the firm into a full-service investment banking advisory group serving clients across Michigan and the U.S. He also co-founded Calder Capital in 2013 and LaGrey Capital in 2022.

Over his career, John has led more than 200 acquisition transactions with a combined value exceeding $2 billion and has invested over $100 million in Michigan private companies through the Michigan Accelerator Funds and Charter Growth Capital Funds. With the launch of Charter Growth Capital Fund II in 2024, he continues to expand access to private capital in the region.

In recognition of his impact, John was inducted into the Crain’s Grand Rapids Business West Michigan Dealmaker Hall of Fame in 2025. He currently serves on the boards of Keystone Solutions, Rim Guard, Ablative Solutions, Flow-Rite Controls, Mitten Fluidpower and Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, and is active in philanthropic initiatives including the Greenville Community Foundation and 100 Businesses That Care.