Fortune magazine cites Baird among best employers

For the ninth consecutive year, Robert W. Baird & Co. Inc. has been named as one of Fortune magazine’s 100 Best Companies to Work For.
Milwaukee-based Baird was the only Wisconsin to be named to the list this year. The employee-owned, international financial services firm ranks No. 21 on the 2012 list.
“Our commitment to being a great place to work is a key part of our strategy, and this recognition shows we are on the right track,” said Paul Purcell, Baird chairman, president and chief executive officer.  “Being a great workplace, along with our employee-owned business model and strong culture, helps us attract and retain the best people. That, in turn, enables us to develop long-term client relationships that lead to Baird’s ongoing success.”
To celebrate the honor, Baird employees will receive an additional paid day off to volunteer for the nonprofit organizations of their choice.
“Our associates are committed to making a difference in their communities, with many actively donating their time, talents and financial support to help a wide variety of non-profit organizations,” said  Leslie Dixon, Baird’s chief human capital officer.  “Offering associates another day off to give back to their communities is a great way to honor all they do to make Baird a great place to work.”
In citing Baird, Fortune magazine noted that Baird has “a full-time director of culture and integration who plans a ‘culture curriculum’ and an annual party at the Milwaukee Zoo for all employees and their families are hallmarks of this 93-year-old investment adviser.”
In 2009, Baird created a new position, director of culture and integration, focused exclusively on developing a comprehensive strategy to ensure all associates understand, embrace and continue to build on Baird’s unique culture.  
“Despite a very challenging economic environment, Baird has experienced significant growth by attracting top industry professionals who became disenchanted with their previous firms,” Dixon said.  “We want to ensure both newer and long-standing associates understand our culture and their part in making it a reality.”