Headquarters: Milwaukee
AUM: $150 billion as of June 30
U.S. employees: 120
Years Won: 2012-2024
In their own words:
“Baird is a great place because of our unique corporate culture, our employee ownership model and our commitment to creating a great workplace for all. We always put clients first while never asking our people to compromise what they believe. Our associates and clients often tell us Baird’s culture inspires dedication and trusting relationships. Baird offers tuition reimbursement, mentoring programs, associate resource groups and leadership development opportunities to ensure everyone can be their personal and professional best. We encourage associates to maintain a balance between work, home and the community, and we support local communities through the firm, Baird Foundation and the community involvement of associates.”
Three cool things:
- Baird has a Fun Committee that plans themed lunches, trivia contests, Oktoberfest events, tennis outings and Pi Day pies (for March 14). For the summer of 2023, the company celebrated an associate’s 25th work anniversary with kickball and tailgating at American Family Field, the Milwaukee Brewers’ ballpark.
- The company targets sharing 12%-14% of its operating income with employees in the form of a 401(k) match and profit sharing. Full-time and part-time associates are also eligible to become shareholders, which includes voting rights for the election of the company’s board of directors.
- Baird Gives Back Week encourages employees to get out of the office and volunteer; employees receive two paid days off each year to volunteer, and the Baird Foundation matches employee donations up to $1,500 annually.
Employees say:
- “As a team, we are all fully aligned with a client-first focus and work together knowing that if we do the absolute best jobs for our clients, we can be proud and will be well rewarded. In working very hard toward that goal, we are all together and have the opportunity to really get to know one another personally and develop strong relationships. Being able to have fun with our coworkers while working hard together makes coming to work enjoyable!”
- “We have autonomy to do our work while dealing with our personal lives as students, parents, caretakers, etc. The work culture allows all associates to socialize, network and create connections with associates within and outside their departments.”
- “We work with a great group of people and enjoy coming to work every day. Eighty-five percent of employees are shareholders, which creates a unique owner-operator culture. We are positioned to think long term, prioritize clients and invest through downturns.”
