3. Systems Evolution, Inc.
Systems Evolution, Inc. is back for a fourth consecutive year. When the firm first appeared on the Best Small Firms to Work For rankings back in 2011, it was only 120 people. Today, it tops 180. So, this small firm is growing at a significant pace—50 percent over the last four years.
"As our firm grows, one of the biggest challenges is ensuring our consultants are building strong relationships within their office and across the firm," says Bill Gallagher, CEO of SEI. "We have successfully addressed this issue through an 'all hands on deck approach'."
That approach, he says, begins with SEI's onboarding process coupled with an orientation where consultants learn the 'why and how' of the business. In each office, consultants have created programs such as "Six Degrees of Collaboration" lunches, giving small groups of consultants the opportunity to socialize.
"As part of our commitment to open book management, each office meets frequently to discuss the local business and provide a conduit for employee participation in the local office," he says. "Our employees also enjoy various social events and organized volunteer efforts in the local communities." In addition, the firm has an advocate program that ensures a direct line to a seasoned consultant who helps navigate the SEI culture.
Given all that, it's probably no surprise that the firm is ranked near the top in nearly every category the survey measures. SEI is in the process of growing in every current market as well as opening in new markets, Gallagher says. The priority is to ensure the firm sticks to its guiding principles and hire the very best consultants who share the vision and culture.
Gallagher says the firm's focus isn't only on what it does for clients but why and how SEI conducts business. "Our approach is simple—hire only the best consultants, support them through a collaborative culture free of hierarchy and bureaucracy, and empower them to participate as owners of our business," Gallagher says. "We possess a set of core values that energizes our people and unleashes their intellectual capital."
He says continued success and growth is dependent on a balanced approach between Practice Development, People Development, and Business Development. "We are vested in contributing to these areas because our consultants are owners in the business and rewarded for what they contribute, Gallagher says. "There is much to be excited about; the economic outlook for all the markets we serve is extremely promising. In addition, I can honestly say that I've never worked with a more committed and close team of people. We have the pieces in place for continued prosperity and growth."
As far as being a Best Small Firm to Work For, Gallagher says the award "positively impacts our operations across the board. Candidates routinely mention how impressed they are by our ranking," he says. "Our consultants, services team and leadership alike, gain satisfaction in knowing we are part of a team that believes in our core values and guiding principles."
How would you describe morale at SEI?
Bill Gallagher, CEO, says: "The morale at Systems Evolution is extremely high. We all enjoy participating in a very unique and substantial employee ownership program as well as the freedom and empowerment supported by open book management. This coupled with our commitment to provide a local consulting opportunity with a focus on work life balance, fosters a high degree of professional and personal satisfaction among Systems Evolution employees."
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