A childhood full of toys, for many of us, often meant a childhood made possible by the vision of Mattel. With brands such as the iconic Barbie, Hot Wheels, American Girl and countless others, it’s no wonder Mattel has become the standard in regards to childhood play. To continue that legacy, the company had to […]
The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that over six million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia. Each of these people need care, and that care is frequently provided by over 11 million unpaid caregivers: spouses, siblings, children, or sometimes just concerned friends and neighbors. More than half of these caregivers are employed […]
Looking for proof that living with “It’s a Wonderful Life” values can nurture great businesses as well as strong families and communities? Look no further than Ed Wehmer. As founder, president and CEO of Wintrust Financial Corporation, Wehmer is widely considered Chicago’s most successful banker. And you could say he’s an even more successful family […]
Kecia Steelman has what many would call a “dream job” as Chief Operating Officer of the country’s largest beauty retailer, Ulta Beauty, but getting to that role wasn’t always so rosy for her. Steelman’s humble beginnings started in a lower middle class family in a small farming community in Iowa. Her parents divorced when she […]
Effectively operating in the nonprofit sector — specifically, working hand-in-hand with some of our most vulnerable community members — requires the ability to meet people where they are at, and an eagerness to offer assistance as opposed to passing judgment. This mentality has guided Ric Estrada, CEO of Metropolitan Family Services (MFS), who has served […]
Family-owned businesses are considered the backbone of the American economy. According to the US Census Bureau, they comprise 90% of all business enterprises in North America. Jill McCall, MBA, JD, CAE, Director of the Family Business Center at Loyola University Chicago says, “Family-owned businesses positively impact the general business climate because they set good examples. […]
Thinking of joining one of Chicago’s many exclusive members-only clubs? Whether for business or pleasure, most offer a plethora of benefits. For help deciding which elite club is right for you, we’ve highlighted some of our favorites. Soho House Chicago Maybe you’re not an artist per se, but if you appreciate cool and trendy spaces, […]
Portillo’s President and CEO, Michael Osanloo, joined the Executives’ Club of Chicago to discuss how the beloved Chicago restaurant reaches a new legion of fans nationwide. Based on his successful career in food service and retail, Osanloo sat with moderator Andy Lansing, CEO of Levy, to discuss lessons learned and his passion for growing brands […]
Within Chicagoland is a network of organizations, businesses and nonprofits that all aspire to do good for the larger community. Partnerships between these institutions are imperative, but what’s the best way to foster and sustain them, maximizing impact for all? To answer this question and more, Make It Better Media Group hosted a virtual discussion […]
For over 50 years, PBS and its more than 330 member stations have fulfilled the mission of providing trusted programming that is uniquely different from commercial broadcasting. Last November, Paula Kerger, the longest-serving PBS President and CEO, spoke with journalist Bill Kurtis during an Executives’ Club “Meeting the Moment” event to share insight on how […]
