Brian Heck was promoted from Senior Associate to Vice President in May of 2024. He has been a valuable team member since joining Merit in 2019.  Brian currently serves on the Board of Directors of CyCan Industries and supports Merit’s investments in American Producers Supply, Propét Footwear, and John-Richard.

In July of 2024, Alec Hutcherson joined Merit as a Vice President. Previously, Alec was an Associate with CIC Partners in Dallas, focused on identifying, evaluating, and executing middle-market private equity investments. Among other activities, Alec currently serves on the Board of Directors of AFX, Inc.   Alec received his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, with concentrations in Accounting and Entrepreneurship, and previously earned his B.B.A. in Finance and Accounting from The University of Texas at Austin.

Finally, Jack McKerr joined Merit as an Associate, also in July of 2024. Prior to joining Merit, Jack was an Investment Banking Analyst at Balmoral Advisors. Jack received his B.S. in Finance from the University of Illinois’ Gies College of Business.

“We are excited to announce Brian’s promotion and to welcome Alec and Jack,” said Dan Pansing, Managing Director.  “Brian has done a great job learning our business and working with our portfolio companies over the last five years.  He’s become a very valuable contributor and we’re lucky to have him. Also, it’s nice to add two talented individuals like Jack and Alec, expanding our team’s strength and depth, and helping position us for continued success in the years ahead.”