Living Entrepreneurship Blog / Babson Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurship Faculty Profile: John Hallal

John Hallal

Babson is fortunate to have many successful adjunct professors. Although they may not teach year-round, these faculty members contribute real-world experiences that are highly valued by students. Professor John Hallal teaches at Babson in the spring semester and also works as an expert advisor to companies and entrepreneurs for mergers and acquisitions.

What is your role at Babson? How long have you been at Babson?
Since 2010, I have been an adjunct lecturer in the entrepreneurship division. I also advise student and alumni businesses in the launch and grow stage at the Butler Venture Accelerator.

Why did you come to Babson?
I presented a deal to the Boston Harbor Angels investment group in 2009. Afterward, Dr. Candida Brush came up to me and asked if I was interested in teaching a finance course at Babson!

What class do you teach?
Mergers & Acquisitions for Entrepreneurs in the Blended MBA program in Boston and San Francisco. I enjoy sharing information about new deals and my personal experiences with students. I use a very practical approach to business.

What is your definition of entrepreneurship?
The pursuit of opportunity and the creation of value, regardless of available resources. It is also important to mention that entrepreneurship goes beyond starting a company – that’s just one part of it. You can be entrepreneurial by buying an existing business, or by creating value within an existing organization.

What does the world need from entrepreneurs today?
The world needs entrepreneurs to continue to pursue and execute on opportunities to grow the economy, create jobs, solve problems, and make the world a better place.

Do you have any tips for entrepreneurs?
Know your market and become an expert in it. Ask yourself, “Is this the market into which I should invest my time, energy and resources? Why?” This applies to people either starting a company or seeking to buy one.

What do you think makes Babson unique?
Babson offers practical, real world guidance, rather than purely theory, in a can-do environment.

What do you do for fun?
I love to help business owners seeing to exit their businesses in a way that helps them meet their goals. I also enjoy cooking, going on vacation with my wife and three boys, and improving my golf game.

Describe yourself in four words.
Energetic, passionate, positive, family-oriented.

Anything else people should know?
Be passionate about your work. If you’re not, change what you do.