Igor Jokanovic holds a B.A. in Business Management from Rockford University and a M.B.A. in International Finance from Loyola University Chicago. He served as a Senior Relationship Banker at LaSalle Bank before founding Arete Renovators with his family and friend in 2002. Igor worked as a financial advisor for Morgan Stanley before going full time as an entrepreneur in 2008. Arete Renovators evolved in 2014 to a design and build firm with a full design studio center in the Albany Park neighborhood of Chicago.
Igor is also the founder of the American Southeast Europe Chamber of Commerce whose goal is to promote charitable endeavors and meaningful relationships between the southeastern region of Europe and the United States. In 2016, along with his wife and brother, Igor formed the new Board Of Directors at Council Oak Montessori School in Blue Island, IL. The school is thriving today and helping to shape its local community for many future generations.
Arete’ Enterprise (Arete’) today includes Arete Fund Management – private equity fund, Arete Homes – buy and sell properties, and Arete Property Development – property management company. Arete’ is in a position today to provide clients a full real estate solution.
Igor lives in Blue Island, IL with his wife Lila, and their children Sara and Miles.
In his own words:
“We separate our business and personal lives but we shouldn’t separate our approach to life. Challenges present themselves no matter what is going on in our worlds. What makes the difference is the people, the family and community, you have built around you that will help you get through to the other side of any challenge. If I know anything it’s that as long as we stand together, we have already succeeded. That’s how I’ve led my life, and this company, and how I will continue to do so.”