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Thursday, February 5, 2026 |
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First Bank Chicago, one of the five largest privately held banks in Chicago, is pleased to welcome Todd Finnelly as Loan Operations Officer. In this role, Todd is responsible for drafting loan documents and closing commercial real estate and commercial banking loans. Todd brings over 30 years of banking experience to the role and most recently, he served as Loan Administrator at Keystone Bank. |
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Honigman welcomes Michael Kraft to its Litigation Department. He joins the firm after nearly five years with Kirkland & Ellis. Kraft focuses his practice on complex commercial litigation, representing clients across a broad range of industries in matters including high-stakes products liability, breach of contract, private equity and shareholder disputes, corporate restructuring, fraud, trade secrets, and data privacy. |
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PREMIER Design + Build Group is proud to announce the promotion of Carol Madock to Director of Human Resources. Carol has played a key role in strengthening employee engagement and supporting company growth. She leads recruitment and onboarding while championing a positive employee experience across the organization. With a people-first mindset and strong organizational insight, Carol helps ensure our teams feel supported, empowered, and positioned for continued success. |
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Ian Bingham is the SVP of Business Development. He will oversee the growth of DMG’s third-party property management business. Ian has over 27 years of experience at Buckingham Companies, RPM Living and Village Green Holding, LLC. Ian is a board member of NMHC and vice chair of the membership committee. Additionally, he is an advisor to Blueprint and a former board member of the Chicagoland Apartment Association. Gzim Durakovic is the Director of Maintenance. He is focused on strengthening maintenance operations. Gzim brings over a decade of experience in construction and facilities management across multifamily and mixed-use portfolios including leadership positions at Redwood Construction, Berkshire Management and Greystar. |
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Marissa Gariti has joined Belmont Bank & Trust as Assistant Vice President of Treasury Management. In her role, Marissa will focus on building and managing relationships with closely held businesses and municipalities across the Chicago area, delivering client-focused treasury management solutions for cash flow optimization, liquidity management, and payment services. |
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Site Design Group is pleased to announce the promotion of Mejay Gula to Studio Director. A licensed architect with more than 20 years of experience, Mejay provides leadership in advancing practice culture, community engagement, and professional development through a deeply people-centered approach. Since joining the firm in 2019, she has led visionary planning and urban design projects as a Senior Project Manager, consistently advancing the firm’s values and design excellence. |
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Site Design Group is proud to announce the promotion of Yuki Takeshima to Design Director. Since joining the firm in 2012, Yuki has contributed thoughtful, innovative design solutions to projects across the country. In her new role, she will continue to advance the firm’s creative excellence by leading design processes, strengthening design culture, and shaping how our work is envisioned, communicated, and realized. Yuki also serves as the liaison for Site Design Group’s Tokyo branch office. |
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World Business Chicago proudly welcomes Jeff King, Managing Partner, KPMG Chicago, to its Board of Directors. King joins a coalition of business and civic leaders dedicated to driving investment, expanding opportunity, and advancing Chicago's standing as a global center for innovation and economic growth. |
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World Business Chicago proudly welcomes Joe Flanagan, Chairman & CEO, Acquirent, to its Board of Directors. Flanagan joins a coalition of business and civic leaders dedicated to driving investment, expanding opportunity, and advancing Chicago's standing as a global center for innovation and economic growth. |
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World Business Chicago proudly welcomes Ross Plagman, Global Chief Financial Officer, Mars Snacking, to its Board of Directors. Plagman joins a coalition of business and civic leaders dedicated to driving investment, expanding opportunity, and advancing Chicago's standing as a global center for innovation and economic growth. |
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Wright Heerema Architects, a Chicago-based architecture and interior design firm, proudly marks 30 years in business. With over 2,500 projects nationwide, WHA specializes in workplace interiors, repositioning, and pharmaceutical and cannabis environments, delivering creative, efficient design solutions that help clients achieve operational and growth goals. This milestone reflects three decades of trusted client relationships, impactful design, and a continued commitment to evolving industries. |
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Mike Kalinowski, CSP, ARM, CRIS has been appointed to National Director of Safety for W.E. O'Neil. In this role, he will lead development and alignment of safety standards, policies, and performance metrics nationwide, helping ensure a consistent and scalable safety framework that supports the general contractor’s operations today and into the future. Mike has 17 years of industry experience, including ten years at W.E. O’Neil, and previously served as the company’s Regional Director of Safety. |
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Alex Georgelos has joined J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Evanston as a Vice President and Banker. He partners with business owners and corporate executives, guiding them through complex financial decisions to help grow their wealth and preserve their legacy. With over a decade of experience in financial services, Alex’s commitment to transparency and collaboration ensures clients receive thoughtful guidance and strategies aligned with their long-term vision. He joins the firm from Morgan Stanley. |
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Sean Kennedy has joined J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Chicago as a Vice President and Banker. He works with entrepreneurs, family offices, corporate executives and multi-generational families, helping them navigate complex financial decisions and plan for long-term success. With over seven years of experience in financial services, Sean takes a consultative approach, tailoring strategies to each client’s unique goals and challenges. He joins the firm from Brown Brothers Harriman. |
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iManage announces the appointment of Mike Eichsteadt as Vice President of AI Engineering, underscoring the company’s continued investment in expanding scalable, practical, and trusted AI capabilities across its platform. In this role, Eichsteadt will continue to advance iManage’s AI capabilities by scaling applied AI and data science efforts and ensuring innovation translates into real-world outcomes for customers. |
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Ginsberg Jacobs LLC, a Chicago law firm representing clients nationally in commercial real estate matters, is pleased to announce that Stephen E. Ross has been promoted to the firm’s partnership. Steve advises clients on complex commercial real estate transactions including acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, financing and corporate formation. Steve received his J.D. from the University of Illinois College of Law and his B.A. from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. |
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Elliot Hilgert has been promoted Project Executive. Since joining Redmond in 2019, he has been a driving force behind the firm's most notable projects, cultivating long-standing client partnerships with organizations including Northwestern Mutual, Monroe Capital, and Stout. A respected mentor and leader, Elliot consistently seeks ways to elevate project outcomes and operational efficiency. He is highly regarded for his attention to detail, client-first mindset, and process-driven approach. |
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Giacomo Tusa has been promoted to Project Executive. Since joining Redmond in 2020, he has led some of the firm's most complex, high-profile projects, building trusted relationships with clients such as Medline and Danone North America. Known for his steady leadership and thoughtful approach, Giacomo brings a disciplined, solution-oriented mindset to construction. His ability to navigate complexity while fostering strong client and team relationships continues to make a meaningful impact. |
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Thomas McKinney ATS, CFM has joined MDI Access, Inc. as a Senior Project Executive in Chicago, where he will focus on the planning, design and delivery of mission-critical infrastructure and data center projects. Tom has more than 35 years of experience in data center operations, engineering and construction. “Tom brings deep technical expertise and leadership experience that will further strengthen our ability to serve data center clients,” said Bob Heiderscheidt, CEO of MDI. |
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L&G – Asset Management, America is pleased to announce that Nicole Stoller has joined the firm as a Senior Investment Director in Chicago. In this role, she is responsible for raising capital from US institutional investors and representing the full suite of L&G’s investment capabilities designed to meet clients’ long-term needs. In addition, she builds and maintains relationships with large institutional asset owners and investment consultants, focusing on those in the midwest region. |
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Pat Kennedy, P.E. has been promoted to President and Chief Executive Officer of V3, a leading engineering, landscape architecture, and construction company. In his previous leadership roles, Pat oversaw massive growth across new regions, service lines, and markets. As CEO, his comprehensive industry knowledge and unparalleled passion for V3 will continue their legacy as an employee-owned firm creating enduring solutions for clients and communities across North America. |
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Pepper Construction Group, parent company of Pepper Construction Illinois, has promoted Scot Pepper to President. Since joining in 1989, he has led innovation across operations, safety, marketing and integrated construction services. Known for forging lasting client partnerships and championing new ideas, Scot serves on the boards of Lincoln Park Zoo and Harper College Educational Foundation, reflecting his commitment to community service. He previously served as President of Pepper Illinois. |
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Pepper Construction Group has promoted Susan Heinking, FAIA, LEED Fellow, to Chief Sustainability Officer. Susan leads the company’s sustainability strategy, advancing healthier buildings and communities. A nationally recognized thought leader who currently is an at-large director for AIA Illinois, she brings more than 20 years of experience in sustainable design and construction and has helped shape Pepper’s high performance and sustainability initiatives since joining in 2015. |
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Pepper Construction of Illinois has named Jay Ripsky as President. With three decades at Pepper, Jay has led teams in nearly every sector, expanded our K-12 and Self-Perform businesses and guided operations as COO. As President, Jay will oversee business strategy, focus on operational excellence and drive company growth. His leadership and experience support our commitment to clients, teammates and communities as we shape the future of the built world. |
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Artisan Advisors, a consulting firm that specializes in strategy, risk, and organization services for community banks, credit unions and non-bank financial institutions, is pleased to announce that Jim McGrath, MBA, has joined the firm as a managing director in Artisan's Risk practice. Jim is a seasoned commercial banking executive who brings more than 35 years of experience in credit, lending, operations, and executive leadership to Artisan and its clients. |
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American Courier Service, Inc is celebrating 50 years in business! We would like to thank our staff and couriers, and above all our loyal customers. We have been committed to servicing the needs of our clients with 24/7 on-site, live dispatch since 1976. Proudly a Woman Owned Business, we service a variety of industries under the guidance of our President and Owner Sherry McDonald. |
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Adair & Company Names Kim Killian Chief Revenue Officer Procurement and supply chain advisory firm Adair & Company has appointed Kim Killian as Chief Revenue Officer. Ms. Killian brings 25+ years of operating experience, including nearly a decade serving PE-backed middle market firms. As CRO at Adair, she'll oversee Sales, Marketing, and partnerships to expand Adair's national reach to Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies to help accelerate their value creation plans. |
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Claudeen J. Barber, MSN, RN, CPHQ has joined the AgeOptions Board of Directors. Vice President of Quality Improvement for Meridian Health Plan of Illinois, Inc., her more than 30 years leadership experience spans Medicaid, Medicare, and commercial health programs. AgeOptions was established in 1974 as the Area Agency for Aging in Suburban Cook County with the mission of improving systems and services, strengthening communities, and helping people thrive as they age. |
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Amundsen Davis LLC, a leading Midwest law firm, is pleased to welcome Gregory “Greg” Frezados to the firm as a partner in the Trusts, Estates & Succession Planning Service Group in Chicago. With more than 30 years of experience advising individuals and families throughout Illinois, Greg concentrates his practice on estate planning, trust formation, family business succession planning, asset protection, charitable planning, and tax-efficient wealth transfer strategies. |
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Steve Manning, CPA has joined MDI Access as CFO. Steve has served in executive, administrative, and financial leadership roles in commercial real estate development and other industries for most of his career. Steve graduated from NIU where he majored in Finance and will be providing financial leadership to support the growth of MDI. “Steve brings deep financial modeling expertise that will further strengthen our ability to serve data center clients,” said Bob Heiderscheidt, CEO of MDI. |
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ENC Construction & Development is excited to welcome Kate Ivanova as Chief Operating Officer. With 25 years of construction leadership, Kate joins ENC at a pivotal moment of growth. Energized by the people and the mission, she’ll help scale operations, support the team, and turn ambitious ideas into meaningful, lasting impact as the company enters its next chapter. |
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First Bank Chicago, one of the five largest privately held banks in Chicago, is pleased to announce Matt Caja has been promoted to VP/Commercial Real Estate Portfolio Manager. Matt is responsible for collateral and personal financial analysis and preparing loan presentations, while also managing and servicing his own clients. Matt has over 30 years of expertise in commercial and consumer lending and joined the Bank in 2016. |
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First Bank Chicago, one of the five largest privately held banks in Chicago, is pleased to announce Patrick Tatarek has been promoted to EVP/Lease Finance Business Development Manager. Patrick has been instrumental in guiding strategic initiatives across the department. In this expanded role, he will continue to lead the growth, profitability, and client-relationship strategy for the bank’s equipment finance division. Pat joined the Bank in 2016. |
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Custom Crafters is pleased to announce the promotion of Paul Kelly to President and Partner. With more than 20 years of experience in the architectural design community and millwork industry, Kelly has played a key role in the company’s growth. Known for his strong leadership, proven sales performance, and ability to build lasting industry relationships, he will continue to guide strategic growth across the Chicago, Denver, and Nashville markets. |
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Baird Capital’s Rebecca (Becca) Schlagenhauf has been promoted to Partner, focusing on the Pharma Services and Industrial Tech & Sustainability franchises. Most recently a Principal at Baird Capital, she joined the firm in 2021 after spending six years on Baird’s equity research team and later serving as a director at Northwestern Mutual Capital. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Notre Dame and an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management. |
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William S. Weltman joined Blank Rome’s Chicago office as a partner in the Business Litigation group. Will brings significant experience in complex litigation and counseling, particularly for private equity firms and their portfolio companies facing intricate and high stakes contractual, trade secret, and technology disputes. For many of these companies, he often serves as outside in-house counsel. He also represents high net worth individuals and family offices in trust and estate litigation. |
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Bartlett Wealth Management is pleased to announce that Melissa Mabley Martin, CFP®, CDFA® has been named a Principal of the firm. Melissa is an experienced Certified Financial Planner® and Chartered Divorce Financial Analyst® whose diverse skills position her particularly well in serving Bartlett clients experiencing major life events and transitions. She focuses on serving high-net-worth individuals and families, and next-generation wealth education and planning. |
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The FSB Companies, a private investment firm that owns and manages a diverse portfolio of agri-businesses, private equity and real estate, has promoted Coleman Gunter, CPA to Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Coleman joined FSB in 2021 as VP of Finance and Accounting. At FSB, Coleman is responsible for overseeing the accounting team, along with being instrumental in the compliance, insurance, tax, and legal strategy of the firm. Before joining FSB, Coleman was a Manager at PwC. www.fsbcompanies.com |
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Barnes & Thornburg has promoted Samuel Leist to partner in its Litigation Department in the firm’s Chicago office. Samuel’s commercial litigation practice focuses on helping clients resolve disputes in a variety of industries before trial or arbitration becomes necessary. His experience includes resolving disputes in the areas of commercial contracts, labor & employment, construction, fraud, products liability, and insurance. |
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Republic Bank of Chicago welcomes Jack Baker as VP/Commercial Lending. Baker brings more than 35 years of banking experience to Republic Bank, including an impressive track record providing lending solutions to a wide range of small and medium-sized businesses. “Jack has a deep understanding of what it means to be a community banker, and that will strengthen our position as Chicago’s bank for entrepreneurs,” said EVP/Director of Commercial Lending, Joe Haugh. “As a lifelong Southsider and son of a small business owner, he has seen first-hand what the right banking partner can do for a business owner.” Baker received his Bachelor of Science degree from St. Ambrose University in Davenport, IA. Republic Bank of Chicago | Member FDIC |
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