Morning Kickoff Panel

Jim Smolik is an associate in Ice Miller’s Business Group, where his practice focuses on mergers and acquisitions, private equity, and corporate finance.

Jim represents private equity funds, mezzanine debt funds, independent sponsors, and family offices in all stages of their corporate life cycle. Jim also counsels clients in matters relating to pre-incorporation planning, joint ventures, and outside general counsel services.

Jim received his juris doctor from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law and his bachelor’s degree, from the University of Dayton. 

Erika Oku is a Senior Investment Associate at 3A Partners, an asset manager focused on investing in private fund managers across the United States, with a particular emphasis on Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs). Since joining the firm in 2024, she has focused on sourcing, underwriting, and monitoring SBIC fund investment opportunities. Prior to joining 3A Partners, Erika developed expertise in commercial banking and credit underwriting through roles at Park National Bank and Peoples Bank.