Calder Capital has been recognized as a 2026 Best and Brightest Company to Work For in Chicago by the National Association for Business Resources (NABR), marking another year the firm has earned this distinction. The recognition reflects Calder’s ongoing commitment to building a workplace where team members are supported, challenged, and positioned to succeed.
The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For program evaluates organizations through an independent research process, reviewing areas such as compensation, benefits, leadership, professional development, work-life balance, and corporate responsibility. With only a fraction of nominees selected each year, the award serves as an objective measure of Calder Capital’s strong workplace culture and team environment.
Calder’s continued growth in Chicago has been driven by a strong group of local M&A professionals who reflect the firm’s collaborative and execution-focused culture. The office was established in 2020 by M&A Advisor Shane Kissack, creating a foundation for expansion in the region. The team has since grown with the addition of Brian Eick in 2023 as an M&A Advisor and Michael Donnelly as a Small Business M&A Advisor, followed by Jake McDonald’s transition to the Chicago office in 2025 after several years with Calder. Backed by Calder’s broader national platform, the Chicago team works closely with business owners, entrepreneurs, and investors across the region.
“At Calder Capital, we prioritize our people, both our clients and our team,” said Max Friar, Managing Partner. “Being named one of Chicago’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For again is a strong reflection of the team we have built and the culture we maintain. We take it as recognition of what is working, and as a reminder to keep improving and creating real opportunities for our team to grow and do meaningful work.”
Jennifer Kluge, President and CEO of NABR and the Best & Brightest Programs, emphasized, “By fostering cultures that prioritize their people, these organizations have built the strong, values-driven foundations that distinguish them as leaders within their industries and communities.”
A full list of winners can be found here.
About the National Association for Business Resources:
The National Association for Business Resources (NABR) has been conducting the Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® competitions for over 25 years, identifying organizations that set the benchmark for workplace excellence. NABR’s programs celebrate top-performing companies that prioritize employee well-being, workplace culture, and leadership development. To learn more, visit www.NationalBiz.org.
About Calder Capital:
Founded in 2013, Calder Capital is a cross-industry mergers and acquisitions advisory firm with offices across the United States. Calder provides valuation, sell-side, and buy-side services. We are nationally recognized for excellence in advising $1-100M enterprise value transactions in manufacturing, construction, distribution, and business services. Calder serves business owners, entrepreneurs, family offices, financial buyers, and investors. Learn more at www.CalderGR.com.
Notice: Calder Capital, LLC is not affiliated with any similarly named organizations or entities. To verify communications from our firm, visit our website or contact [email protected].