Jeff Hakala is a co-founder and Chief Investment Officer at Clarkston Capital Partners, a money management firm based in Michigan. With a strong belief that investment success is driven by identifying companies that possess sustainable competitive advantages, Jeff developed his investment philosophy based on three key characteristics. He has a knack for financial statement analysis, assessing accounting practices, and business strategy. Along with his financial modeling and cash flow forecasting skills, he also has experience in client service and business development.

He studied Accounting and Finance at Michigan State University's Eli Broad College of Business, earning a Bachelor's and Master's degree. Jeff has been an Adjunct Professor at Walsh College in his career and was also a Senior Auditor at Arthur Andersen. Prior to co-founding Clarkston Capital Partners, Jeff worked as a Portfolio Manager and Investment Committee Member at Seger-Elvekrog, Inc.