Aren Leekong

About Aren LeeKong

Aren LeeKong is a seasoned business leader, investor, and entrepreneur with a rich history of over 25 years in financial and operational leadership roles. His career is defined by substantial contributions to credit and lending sectors, showcasing his ability to drive growth and deliver results in complex business environments.

Educational Background

Aren's educational journey began at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he earned a bachelor's degree between January 1995 and January 1998. This foundational education paved the way for a series of prestigious roles in some of the world's leading financial institutions.

Career Beginnings

Aren's career started at Citigroup, where he took on senior roles, showcasing his aptitude for high-level strategic planning and execution. He then advanced to KKR & Co. Inc., continuing to build his expertise in financial management and strategic investments.

Highbridge Principal Strategies

In 2011, Aren joined Highbridge Principal Strategies (HPS) as a Managing Director and Co-Portfolio Manager of the Strategic Capital Partners strategy. His tenure at HPS was marked by significant achievements in managing complex investment portfolios and contributing to the firm's growth.

Carlyle Group

Aren’s career further blossomed at Carlyle, where he held multiple key positions including Vice Chairman of Global Credit, Head of Direct Lending, and CEO of the Business Development Companies. His leadership was instrumental in enhancing the firm’s capabilities in credit services and expanding its market reach.

Organix Recycling

In addition to his roles at major financial firms, Aren served as the Executive Chair at Organix Recycling. At Organix, he led successful turnaround efforts, focusing on improving the company's financial, operational, and cultural dimensions. His strategic leadership resulted in increased revenue and EBITDA, demonstrating his ability to drive business success across different industries.

External Committees and Advisory Roles

Aren’s professional journey also includes his role on the External Investment Advisory Committee for the New York State Common Retirement Fund, where he provided expert advice on external investment strategies.

Community Service

Beyond his professional endeavors, Aren is actively involved in community service. He serves on the Advisory Board of The Family Center, an organization dedicated to providing social and legal services to families in crisis in New York. He also previously served on the board of directors for Sponsors for Educational Opportunities, reflecting his commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for young people.

Personal Life

Aren LeeKong is not just a business leader but also a devoted family man who enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters. His family is deeply engaged in community service, particularly in initiatives aimed at increasing access to education and healthcare. Aren’s contributions to the financial community are well-respected, and he frequently shares his insights at various industry conferences and events.