Jen Zhao, Chief Operating Officer – Investment Banking, is based in Marathon Capital’s Chicago office. She manages day-to-day operations and oversees marketing, business development, business analytics, and junior banker management functions, supporting Marathon Capital’s investment banking business objectives. Jen also plays a key role in coordinating efforts across Marathon Capital’s global offices, product groups, and strategic partnerships, aimed at delivering optimal solutions for our clients.

Jen joined Marathon Capital in 2017 as an Investment Banking Associate and was later promoted to Vice President, Chief of Staff, and Chief Strategy Officer. During her time at Marathon Capital, Jen has worked closely with bankers at all levels and across all departments. As Chief Strategy Officer, she was dedicated to furthering Marathon Capital's vision by advancing, communicating, and executing the firm’s strategic plans. As Chief of Staff, she was instrumental in institutionalizing the junior banker program by collaborating closely with the staffers, training leads, and the HR team. In a transactional capacity, she played key roles in solar, wind, and competitive retail mandates serving LS Power, Goldwind, Hanwha, Heelstone, and Asian and European energy strategies.

Prior to joining Marathon Capital, Jen was an investment banking associate with Bank of America Merrill Lynch’s Power and Utilities practice in New York. Before business school, Jen conducted research at the World Resources Institute, a leading environmental and energy think tank in Washington, D.C.

Jen received a BA in History and International Studies from Peking University, China, an MA in International Affairs from George Washington University, and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. She holds Series 24, 63, and 79 licenses.