PBN Best Places to Work Awards 2022

BESTPLACES TO

WORK★RI 2022 AWARDS

ENTERPRISE COMPANY

LARGE COMPANY

BLUE CROSS & BLUE SHIELD OF RHODE ISLAND

EMBRACE HOME LOANS INC. SMALL COMPANY

MIDSIZE COMPANY EDWARD D. JONES & CO. LP

BRAVE RIVER SOLUTIONS INC.

PARTNER SPONSORS

PARTNER AND GIFT SPONSOR

To our employees, you didn’t just vote us a best place to work.

You made us a best place to work.

Thank you.

Federally insured by NCUA

2 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

CARING FOR THE CITY Thank you to the 600 extraordinary people working at Providence Community Health Centers who make a difference everyday for more than 60,000 patients in the city.

For the seventh year in a row, you have made PCHC one of the best places to work in Rhode Island!

www.providencechc.org

BESTPLACES TO

WORK★RI 2022 AWARDS

PARTNER SPONSOR MESSAGES

Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick congratulates the winners of the Providence Business News Best Places to Work 2022 award. We are honored to be included among companies that understand the importance of employee well-being and constantly strive to foster a positive and productive work environment. Your dedication to excellence and continued diligence is inspiring, and we applaud your tremendous efforts!

PARTNER & GIFT SPONSOR MESSAGE

Navigant Credit Union is proud to serve as a sponsor for Providence Business News’ Best Places to Work Awards. Year after year, this event shines a spotlight on Rhode Island’s business community’s collective commitment to employee-friendly values and organizational culture. We congratulate each of this year’s honorees for your well-deserved recognition, and we look forward to celebrating with you all.

R1 recognizes the thoughtfulness each nominated company has demonstrated in their relationship with employees. You set an example for others, and the continuous effort you make will ensure success for your business. We see the devotion you have earned and are grateful each time you allow us to help teambuilding be more fun.

FROM THE EDITOR

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Build trust with workers and the profits will follow

ENTERPRISE COMPANIES | P. 6-13

COMPANIES REGULARLY RECOGNIZED in PBN’s annual Best Places to Work awards ­program all treat their employees well.

Most understood long before COVID-19 that employees, rather than products or competitive services, are the lifeblood of their organizations. But for the best of them, competitive pay, generous benefits and employee support programs are just the starting point.

All of this year’s first-place winners have workplace cultures that recognize they can’t build trust and loyalty with clients without first doing the same for employees.

“Our culture is founded on our corporate values of collaboration, accountability, integrity and respect,” said Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island CEO and President Martha L. Wofford. The company is this year’s leader among firms with more than 500 workers because it views employees the same way they are expected to treat clients.

During the pandemic, that’s included asking employees what more they needed and delivering additional paid time off, while not forcing anyone to return to the office before they are ready.

At Embrace Home Loans Inc., which has been recognized for all 17 years of this award program, there’s no resting on past success.

An ongoing review of benefits at this year’s first-place winner among large companies led to expanded maternity leave, adoption leave and a shorter wait to contribute to a 401(k) plan.

Treating employees as partners has long been ingrained in the culture at Edward D. Jones & Co. LP, where more than half of the company’s workers are part owners. This year’s winner among midsize companies is another 17-time PBN award recipient.

What’s the lesson? Invest in employees and the shared commitment will feed your bottom line.

We’d like to thank our returning partner sponsors, Chisholm ­Chisholm & Kilpatrick Ltd. and Navigant Credit Union, and partner and gift sponsor R1 Indoor Karting LLC.

Michael Mello Editor

Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island | The Washington Trust Co. | Amgen Rhode Island | Amica Mutual Insurance Co. | AAA Northeast | University Orthopedics Inc. | Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island | Providence Community Health Centers Inc.

LARGE COMPANIES | P. 14-21

Embrace Home Loans Inc. | Gilbane Building Co. | Starkweather & Shepley Insurance Brokerage Inc. | Navigant Credit Union | Children’s Friend and Service | R.I. Housing and Mortgage Finance Corp. | BankNewport | Dominion Diagnostics LLC | Performance Physical Therapy | Narragansett Bay Commission | Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick Ltd. | Brown Medicine

MIDSIZE COMPANIES | P. 22-33

Edward D. Jones & Co. LP | Swarovski Optik North America Ltd. | Shawmut Design and Construction | CBIZ & MHM | New England Construction Co. | DiSanto, Priest & Co. | Hinckley Allen & Snyder LLP | Custom Computer Specialists LLC | Rubius Therapeutics Inc. | Citrin Cooperman & Co. LLP | Landings Management LLC | Picerne Real Estate Group | Sansiveri, Kimball & Co. LLP | Coastline EAP/ Rhode Island Student Assistance Services | Marasco & Nesselbush LLP | Baystate Financial LLC | The Providence Mutual Fire Insurance Co. | United Way of Rhode Island Inc. | Rhode Island Parent Information Network | The Town Dock | Kahn, Litwin, Renza & Co. Ltd. | Tockwotton on the Waterfront | Pariseault Builders Inc. | Westerly Community Credit Union | Marcum LLP | Hanna Instruments Inc. | Vertikal6 | Lockheed Architectural Solutions Inc.

SMALL COMPANIES | P. 34-43

Brave River Solutions Inc. | Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island | AVTECH Software Inc. | DarrowEverett LLP | Compass IT Compliance LLC | South County Smiles | Province Mortgage Associates Inc. | RIKB Design Build | KSA Marketing & Partnerships LLC | Secure Future Tech Solutions | Rhode I­ sland F­ oundation | Technology Advisory Group LLC | Automated Business Solutions Inc. | Mott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty | IT Support RI | Brokers’ Service Marketing Group II LLC | Duffy & Sweeney Ltd. | Connectivity Point Design & Installation LLC | Carey, Richmond & Viking Insurance | Rhode Island Quality Institute | Envision Technology Advisors LLC

4 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

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the people who

who helped your business adapt and succeed!

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Congratulations to each of the winners of Best Places To Work – Rhode Island!

We’re so pleased to celebrate the good example you’ve set in Rhode Island.

ENTERPRISE COMPANIES (500+ EMPLOYEES) BLUE CROSS & BLUE SHIELD OF RHODE ISLAND

COMMUNITY SUPPORT: Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island Human Resources Business Partner Jess Nunez represents the company at the Dominican Parade of Rhode Island in Providence.

COURTESY BLUE CROSS & BLUE SHIELD OF RHODE ISLAND

Dedicated employees help Blue Cross weather COVID storm

1

BY ANTHONY VECCHIONE

|

Contributing Writer

THROUGHOUT THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island offered its 768 employees flexible work arrangements, subsidies for office equipment to facilitate working from home and subsidies for child care and the care of other family members.

The company, established in 1938 in Providence, also increased the number of paid days off employees could carry over into a new year.

“We have deliberately not set the expectation for people to return to the office, to avoid adding stress to what is an extremely challenging situation for many,” said Martha L. Wofford, CEO and president. “Instead, we have opened up our office and invited people to return if, and when, they feel comfortable.”

Innovative, passionate and dedicated is how Wofford describes her staff.

According to Michele B. Lederberg, executive vice president, chief legal officer and chief administrative officer, the company asked associates what they needed and responded with empathy, offering support, flexibility and opportunities to connect.

“In turn, associates expressed deep appreciation for programs and services that demonstrated how much we valued them,” Lederberg said. “We have heard from countless associates that our focus on their safety, health and well-being made a difference at a time of heightened stress and anxiety for them and their families.”

Over the past 12 months, Blue Cross introduced paid time off for associates to use if they need to take children to COVID-19 vaccine appointments and caregiver leave – up to two weeks of paid leave at 100% of pay to care for a seriously ill family member.

Part of the company’s strategy in dealing with the pandemic is to emphasize engagement and promote connection in a hybrid ­environment.

For instance, Blue Cross offered regularly scheduled virtual coffee chats, often hosted

by its employee business resource groups, on topics ranging from helping children and adolescents weather the pandemic to tips on self-care.

“We have celebrated employees with awards and honors throughout the pandemic, honoring their service to our members and recently celebrating teammates that have been with Blue Cross for as many as 45 years,” W ­ offord said.

Commitment is the best way to describe the workplace culture at Blue Cross.

“Our culture is founded on our corporate

Our culture is … guided by our strong community mission.’

MARTHA L. WOFFORD, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island CEO and president

Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island EMPLOYEES IN R.I. 768 CEO AND PRESIDENT

Martha L. Wofford

6 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

values of collaboration, accountability, integrity and respect, and guided by our strong community mission,” Wofford said.

She added that the company is working to build on that strong foundation and create a workplace community where everyone feels a deep sense of belonging, leads with empathy and has the opportunity to build connections with each other.

Among the modifications made to the workplace to support employee wellness are the creation of the Rhodes to Well-Being program, designed to encourage employees to embrace four elements of well-being: physical, emotional, financial and social.

The company also offers comprehensive programs, education and resources to personalize wellness for its diverse workforce and enable improved work-life balance, increased engagement and better overall health and wellbeing. In addition, the cafeteria serves healthy meals and the company has an on-site, state-ofthe-art fitness center.

Diversity and inclusion are integral to the company’s hiring and promotion decisions.

Blue Cross recently enhanced its approach with the following three commitments: a diverse slate of external candidates to be interviewed for all management positions; a diverse panel of associates to conduct interviews for management positions; and all external finalists for management positions will be interviewed for a cultural fit.

According to Wofford, community service is “baked into” the company’s DNA. In 2021, Blue Cross employees performed 5,700 hours of volunteer service, benefiting 132 organizations through philanthropy, volunteerism and in-kind donations.

“We are committed to supporting organizations delivering critical services to vulnerable communities throughout Rhode Island,” Wofford said, “and encourage our employees to volunteer, providing multiple opportunities to do so as built-in benefits.” n

WE’RE HONORED... ...once again.

FIFTEEN TIMES! (That bears repeating...) In 2022, Amgen was proud to be named by Providence Business News as a Best Place to Work in Rhode Island for the 15th time. It’s a direct result of creating an environment that enables our workforce to realize its utmost in professional and personal growth while we continue to successfully fulfill our mission to serve patients. As we see it, we owe our workforce nothing less.

ENTERPRISE COMPANIES

WORK★RI

NEW HOME: The Washington Trust Co.’s mortgage team traded in their paperwork for hard hats and hammers, volunteering to help build a new home in partnership with South County Habitat for Humanity.

COURTESY THE WASHINGTON TRUST CO.

2

team integrates fun into wellness activities and incentives, holiday celebrations and community outreach initiatives. During the holiday season, our team hosted a “12 Days of Cheer” event, which encompassed virtual activities such as Pictionary, a holiday sweater contest, trivia and more.

How do you support community service work by your employees? “Reach for the Stars,” our

award-winning volunteerism program, rewards employees for serving as leaders on nonprofit boards, participating in bank-sponsored events and supporting community activities. We annually recognize employees for community service and provide corporate donations to nonprofits.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? We

CELEBRATING WOMEN: Amgen Rhode Island’s manufacturing team ­celebrates Women’s History Month.

COURTESY AMGEN RHODE ISLAND

3

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? Our

The Washington Trust Co. EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 529 CHAIRMAN AND CEO

EDWARD O. HANDY III

Questions answered by: COMMUNITY RELATIONS OFFICER

JILLIAN BALZANO

find there are benefits to having a balance of new and long-term employees. It’s important to provide existing employees with a career path, so we post open positions internally. We also value the diversity employees from outside the company bring. n

Back to the Future/Lab Week Fun!

OUR PEOPLE MAKE IT ALL HAPPEN. Headquartered in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, Dominion Diagnostics is a national medical laboratory providing clinical drug monitoring solutions that advance patient care and improve treatment outcomes. For twenty-five years, Dominion Diagnostics has been a leader in the industry working with addiction treatment centers, pain management centers, primary care centers, hospital systems and other specialties.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Our collective set of

behaviors is guided by eight core values; be science-based; compete intensely and win; create value for patients, staff and stockholders; be ethical; trust and respect each other; ensure quality and safety; work in teams; and collaborate, communicate and be accountable. We apply these in everything we do.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness?

During the pandemic, we rolled out many wellness and fitness programs that can be accessed virtually.

We don’t anticipate those going away but will be an added tool, especially now that we have more staff working in a hybrid model or full-time remote.

@domdiag |

Amgen Rhode Island

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 970 CHAIRMAN AND CEO

ROBERT A. BRADWAY

Questions answered by: VICE PRESIDENT OF RHODE ISLAND OPERATIONS

BRIAN BRITSON

How do you support community service work by your employees?

Volunteering within the community is so important. It’s equally important to Amgen that we offer each staff member eight paid hours off per calendar year to volunteer in a community service. Before the pandemic, over 65% of our staff participated in a community activity. They are clamoring to get back out in the community. n

GIVING SEASON: Amica Mutual Insurance Co. employees, with an assist from Santa Claus, continue a long tradition of holiday giving with a penny social, which raised over $6,500 to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.

COURTESY AMICA MUTUAL INSURANCE CO.

4

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? We’ve switched to a permanent hybrid office

model for all eligible employees to help them maintain a healthy work-life balance. We’ve provided flexibility for our employees to address unexpected personal and family obligations.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? Examples of

visit us online to learn more dominiondiagnostics.com

2022

group activities include pingpong tournaments, escape rooms, team bowling, 5K races, on-campus basketball leagues, and free outdoor cycling and boot camp classes. We also participate in activities such as our CEO Soak for ALS, which raised nearly $80,000.

Amica Mutual Insurance Co.

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 1,746 CHAIRMAN, CEO AND PRESIDENT

ROBERT A. DIMUCCIO

Questions answered by:

ROBERT A. DIMUCCIO

What role does diversity and inclusion play in your hiring and promotion decisions? Diversity, equity and inclusion play a significant role.

We have a long-standing relationship with Year Up, where we host many students and have hired them. We help employees to feel valued by ensuring equitable wages and conducting extensive reviews to ensure there are no disparities. n

8 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

www.pbn.com | BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | JUNE 2022

| 9

ENTERPRISE COMPANIES

WORK★RI

FRONT-LINE SUPPORT: AAA Northeast staffers assemble and deliver care packages for health care workers last year.

GAME ON: Employees with University Orthopedics Inc. dress up in their favorite sports attire in the office.

COURTESY AAA NORTHEAST

COURTESY UNIVERSITY ORTHOPEDICS INC.

5

6

What three words best describe your staff? Member-centric, innovative,

empowered.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? Our club continues

to uphold long-standing traditions dedicated to celebrating employees. Events include an appreciation breakfast, appreciation days and service milestone dinners. Throughout the year, employees can engage in contests, raffles, virtual team-building events, and spirit days/weeks.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Our employees are empowered to

AAA Northeast

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 1,302 CEO AND PRESIDENT

JOHN R. GALVIN Questions answered by: SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES

do the right thing; they’re innovative and look for RON ARIGO ways to get out of their comfort zones to develop their skills. We embrace diversity, we focus on equity and we promote inclusion. Our environment is one where our employees feel involved, empowered, valued and, most importantly, a sense of belonging.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? We’re dedicated to offering our employees and their fami-

lies mental and emotional health resources. We introduced a new mental health rebate designed to support employees’ mental and emotional well-being. n

2022

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? University Orthopedics’

culture focuses on teamwork. When providing the best care for our patients, every one of our teammates play a vital role to achieve that mission. Whether we are in the clinics, the operating rooms or outside of our offices, a collaborative approach wins.

What role does diversity and inclusion play in your hiring and promotion decisions?

University Orthopedics utilizes a diversity and inclusion committee that consists of a cohort of staff across a variety of locations and job functions.

The charter of this committee is to work in parallel with our managers and human resource team to make diversity and inclusion a priority.

University Orthopedics Inc. EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 563 CEO

WEBER SHILL

Questions answered by: CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

DAVID PALLER

How do you support community service work by your employees?

We provide staff with a paid day off each year to provide service to a cause important to them. We also organize other opportunities. Many volunteer at the Dr. Mark Palumbo annual 5K, where the proceeds support a local charity.

Our charitable giving committee identifies and partners with local charities to support a variety of causes. n

ALL YOUR DENTAL NEEDS IN ONE PLACE (401)783-1530 | SmilesRI.com | 24 Salt Pond Rd Ste. D-1 Wakefield, RI

10 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

THANK YOU To all of our employees for continually making us one of the Best Places to Work in Rhode Island.

1-(800) 854-4625

starshep.com

Offering • Personal Insurance • Business Insurance • Employee Benefits • Life/Asset Protection • Claim Advocacy

www.pbn.com | BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | JUNE 2022

| 11

ENTERPRISE COMPANIES

WORK★RI

We are Rhode Island’s community foundation.

2022

Pamela Adams

Aaron Guckian

Christine Pellegri

Angie Ankoma

Dale Halburian

Jenny Pereira

WALKING RALLY: Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island staffers show support for the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Providence walk to support survivors, research and all those impacted by breast cancer.

Bridget Baratta

Pam Tesler Howitt

Jill Pfitzenmayer

COURTESY NEIGHBORHOOD HEALTH PLAN OF RHODE ISLAND

Chris Barnett

Jamie Hull

Bryant Phillips

Ricky Bogert

Alison Jackson

Jen Reid

Adrian Bonéy

Bruce Keeler

Kelly Riley

Nicole Bucci (MacDonald)

Daniel Kertzner

Jessica Rodriguez

Lou Capracotta

Monica Kwarta

Allie Rosenthal

Sharon Collier

Lisa Maddox

Ian Ross

Claudia Cornejo

Rob Maher

Joe Santos

Arianne Corrente

Kathleen Malin

Donna Sowden

Wendi DeClercq

Inés Merchán

Neil Steinberg

Nicole Delos

Katie Murray

Karen Sylvia

Lisa DiMartino

Zach Nieder

Elgin Tagger

Sean Festa

Paula O’Brien

Bazl Taliaferrow-Mosleh

Carmen Greene

Lauren Paola

Keith Tavares

Connie Grosch

Venita Parham

7

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? Leading with empathy and flexibility.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? The ALS Soak the

Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island

CEO challenge, ACS Making Strides Walk, American Heart Association Walk and paint nights.

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 590

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness?

CEO AND PRESIDENT

PETER MARINO

Partnership with Crossfit gyms, built an on-site gym, created a serenity space, created a walking path, chair massages and provided a lot of resources and programs for employees to help with behavioral health challenges.

Questions answered by: DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

JASON VLAUN

What was a new employee benefit(s) or initiative(s) in the past 12 months? We changed our tuition reimbursement program to provide funding

upfront versus having employees wait to complete their program for reimbursement. Additionally, we added a process for employees who need additional financial assistance to pay for advancing their education. n

Here’s to our

employees!

WORK RI

‘‘

“Everyone at AAA Northeast is innovative, creative, and genuinely cares for our members and our employees.”

— AAA NORTHEAST EMPLOYEE

AAA Northeast congratulates all the winners of Providence Business News Best Places to Work Awards.

w

You are the heart and soul of our organization, helping and serving our members and communities every day.

It’s because of YOU that AAA Northeast is a Providence Business News Best Places to Work winner!

COMBATING COVID-19: Providence Community Health Centers Inc. was the first organization in Rhode Island to offer drive-thru and walk-up ­COVID-19 testing.

COURTESY PROVIDENCE COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS INC.

8

What three words best describe your staff? Highly skilled, dedicated,

culturally competent.

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages?

As the health care provider for more than 60,000 Rhode Islanders, we have taken every step to ensure our staff felt safe and cared for over the past 2½ years. This included the availability of online and virtual mental health resources.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Our culture is defined by

Providence Community Health Centers Inc. EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 601 CEO AND PRESIDENT

MERRILL R. THOMAS

Questions answered by: VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER

CHERYL PERRY

a can-do spirit that has allowed us to care for the community despite the challenges of a pandemic. It is a culture that recognizes the diversity of our patients and staff.

What role does diversity and inclusion play in your hiring and promotion decisions? We are proud to be home to a Diversity & Inclusion Commit-

tee that celebrates different backgrounds and cultures of our patients, staff and community. n

12 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

Workplace fitness facilities

Support community service initiatives

Career-development programs ✔

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12

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11

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79%

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11

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84%

✔

13

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✔

✔

Company name

Person in charge

Type of business

No. of local employees

% of voluntary turnover

% of women employees

Flexible work hours

Holidays per year

1

Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island

Martha L. Wofford

Health insurer

768

14%

73%

✔

11

2

The Washington Trust Co.

Edward O. Handy III

Financial institution

529

13%

67%

✔

13

3

Amgen Inc.

Robert A. Bradway; Brian Britson

Biotechnology manufacturer

970

10%

60%

4

Amica Mutual Insurance Co.

Robert A. DiMuccio

Insurance

1,746

16%

60%

✔

14

5

AAA Northeast

John R. Galvin

Automobile servicer

1,302

23%

58%

✔

6

University Orthopedics Inc.

Weber Shill

Health care

563

15%

84%

7

Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island

Peter Marino

Health insurer

590

18%

8

Providence Community Health Centers Inc.

Merrill R. Thomas

Health care

601

10%

Sick days for ill-dependent

Stress and wellness programs

✔

Tuition reimbursement offered

✔

Telecommuting options

✔

Bonus or incentive programs

✔

401(k)/retirement plan

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Diversity programs

✔

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(based on companies with more than 500 regional employees)

2022 rank

✔

New policies responding to COVID-19

BEST PLACES TO WORK - ENTERPRISE COMPANIES (based on companies with more than 500 regional employees) BEST PLACES TO WORK - ENTERPRISE COMPANIES

20

THANK YOU TO OUR SMITHFIELD RUBIES FOR THEIR COMMITMENT TO OUR CULTURE which is fueled by our purpose to create life-changing cellular therapies for people with cancer and autoimmune diseases.

Rubius is the only company in the world that can biologically engineer and manufacture red blood cells into medicines, which takes place right here in Rhode Island at our Smithfield manufacturing facility.

Interested in learning more? Check us out at https://www.rubiustx.com/careers/

© Rubius Therapeutics, Inc. 2022 All Rights Reserved.

www.pbn.com | BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | JUNE 2022

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LARGE COMPANIES (150-499 EMPLOYEES) EMBRACE HOME LOANS INC.

WORK★RI

2022

TIGHT-KNIT STAFF: Members of Embrace Home Loans Inc. in Middletown gather for a teambuilding event at Stumpy’s Hatchet House in Fall River in October 2021.

COURTESY EMBRACE HOME LOANS INC.

Family approach, charity at core of Embrace culture

1

BY JOHN A. LAHTINEN

|

Contributing Writer

FULL-SERVICE, NATIONWIDE mortgage lender Embrace Home Loans Inc., which is headquartered in Middletown, has been serving borrowers, referral partners and financial institutions for nearly 40 years.

Founded by CEO Dennis Hardiman in 1983 and licensed to originate loans in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., Embrace has always made it a top priority to put its customers first.

The same devotion Embrace shows its customers carries over to its employees and their families. To that end, the company is proud to foster a supportive, family-like work culture and encourages all its employees to pursue charitable endeavors.

“Embrace offers competitive compensation and benefits and a balanced work-life focus where employees are given every resource to succeed,” said Denise Cunha, vice president and director of benefits and payroll. “The company motivates and rewards employees with a generous benefits package, including an annual 401(k) profit share contribution. In addition, the company offers medical insurance with prescriptions, a health savings account option, dental and vision coverage, whole life insurance, company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, and for full-time employees, paid time off, paid holidays and paid sick leave.”

Every year on the company’s anniversary, employees spend a week volunteering at nonprofit organizations in a tradition known as “Orange Week.” Some of the charitable organizations and activities Embrace has supported include Newport Blooms, Norman Bird Sanctuary, West Place Animal Sanctuary, Save The Bay Inc., Miantonomi Park cleanup, food drive for the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center in Newport, Bramans Cemetery gravestone cleaning, Boots on the Ground, Operation Stand Down Rhode Island, Second Beach cleanup, and The Chase Home.

Embrace matches team members’ charitable donations to school parent-teacher organizations, churches, Boy Scouts, neighbors in need, and many more for up to $2,500 per employee per year. Additionally, employees can volunteer at an organization of their choice for up to 100 hours. The time is paid and the cause receives a monetary gift.

As it has for so many, the COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on the company and

‘If … [employees] feel appreciated, they will make your customers feel appreciated and everyone succeeds.’

DENNIS HARDIMAN, Embrace Home Loans Inc. CEO

Embrace Home Loans Inc. EMPLOYEES IN R.I. 450 CEO

Dennis Hardiman

Cunha says mental, emotional and spiritual well-being has been low. Embrace is taking steps to support its employees by reviewing wellness policies and benefits to maximize their impact. New benefit approaches, improved communications and training will be created through this process.

“Too many people, including teammates, are suffering and struggling, and few have the needed support and skills to thrive in the face of daily challenges and life’s hardships,” Cunha said. “With spring symbolizing renewal, there is no better time to begin to tackle these issues. We believe all employees will benefit from developing wellness skills. When our teammates are in a state of well-being at work, they’re able to achieve their professional goals, work productively, reach their creative potential and find personal fulfillment.”

During this first phase of rededicating itself to wellness in the workplace, Embrace has been reviewing everything from organizational values and competencies and organizational reporting structure to onboarding policies and learning and development philosophy.

Early changes include the expansion of maternity leave to four paid months, implementation of an adoption leave policy providing six weeks of paid leave, creation of an adoption assistance program that reimburses qualified expenses up to $10,000, and decreasing the time new hires must wait to contribute to their 401(k) from six months to two. In addition, the company recently launched a new rewards and recognition initiative called Bucketlist, offering a personalized approach to employee rewards and recognition.

“If there is one takeaway we have learned from the pandemic, it is never rest on your laurels,” Hardiman said. “Take nothing for granted. You must constantly seek out your employees’ thoughts on what it means to them to be a rewarding place to work and adapt to their needs. If they feel appreciated, they will make your customers feel appreciated and everyone succeeds.” n

14 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

www.nhpri.org

We were founded to address people’s needs. Today, we remain true to our roots. Committed to community. Driven by purpose. Opening doors and breaking down barriers.

To better health. To stronger neighborhoods.

For many more tomorrows, we’ll do what’s needed.

THAT’S WORKING AT NEIGHBORHOOD.

Proud winner for 3 years in a row! www.pbn.com | BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | JUNE 2022

| 15

LARGE COMPANIES

WORK★RI

2022

TEAMWORK: Gilbane Building Co. employees partner with nonprofit Rebuilding Together on a community service project.

PACKING UP: Starkweather & Shepley Insurance Brokerage Inc. employees collect backpacks for children as part of its annual Backpack Drive.

COURTESY GILBANE BUILDING CO.

COURTESY STARKWEATHER & SHEPLEY INSURANCE BROKERAGE INC.

3

2

What three words best describe your staff? Caring, integrity, safety.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? Our wellness program is focused on

supporting employees’ total well-being: occupaGilbane tional safety, mental/emotional wellness, financial Building Co. well-being and physical wellness. This helps our EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 185 employees achieve and maintain their best life at CEO AND PRESIDENT work and at home. We also offer unique benefits, THOMAS including paid family leave up to four weeks, pet LAIRD JR. insurance, pre-tax dependent care and health care Questions answered by: spending accounts, 529 college savings plan, adopSENIOR SALES AND tion assistance, personal-time-off donation, paid MARKETING SPECIALIST family leave, and fitness reimbursement program TARA CRAWFORD up to $300. The StayWell platform also has life coaches who help our employees. Resources on the StayWell platform can assist an employee dealing with mental health issues.

What was a new employee benefit(s) or initiative(s) in the past 12 months? Flexibility. Those whose role permits it are able to work a hybrid

model with a mix of remote and in-office workdays. We also launched our volunteer-time-off policy this year. n

Thank you

We are Honored to be Named a PBN Best Places to Work Winner 2022.

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? We implemented a remote

work policy allowing staff to work from home on a hybrid basis. We are piloting a mentorship program to foster personal and professional development.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We

recently held a live cooking demonstration with Jarvis Green, a retired New England Patriot. We invited a local community center to attend, and we livestreamed the event. Green signed jerseys, and we raffled his signed footballs. Starkweather made a donation to the community center in Green’s name.

Starkweather & Shepley Insurance Brokerage Inc. EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 157 CHAIRMAN AND CEO

LAWRENCE E. KEEFE

Questions answered by:

LAWRENCE E. KEEFE

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? We have a cul-

ture of integrity, trust and respect. It starts with the structure of our organization. We are owned in trust. The mission of the trust is to ensure decisions are made with the best interests of clients and employees in mind. n

BankNewport Employees!

BESTPLACES TO MEMBER FDIC

BankNewport.com

16 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

★

AWARDS

2022

LARGE COMPANIES

WORK★RI

PACESETTERS: Staffers from Navigant Credit Union pose in front of the R.I. Statehouse before participating in the annual Providence Downtown 5K.

TIDY TASK: Staffers from Children’s Friend and Service help clean at the Berkshire Place Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Providence.

COURTESY NAVIGANT CREDIT UNION

COURTESY CHILDREN’S FRIEND AND SERVICE

4

5

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We host

employee raffles and giveaways on a regular basis, with prizes consisting of tickets to concerts, sporting events and more. We also often treat our team members to free lunches, host optional afterwork gatherings, and encourage all employees to take paid time out of work to give back to organizations and causes they believe in.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? We

implemented a long list of COVID-19-specific things, which included everything from working from home to strict cleaning and sanitization guidelines. We have an on-site gym in our office, and our benefits packages offer our employees incentives to join their own fitness centers.

What three words best describe your staff? Dedicated, innovative,

c­ompassionate.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Family is a great word to describe

Navigant Credit Union

the culture at Children’s Friend. We support each other and take care of each other.

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 346 CEO AND PRESIDENT

GARY E. FURTADO

Questions answered by:

GARY E. FURTADO

How do you support community service work by your employees? We

have an internal committee called V-Force, which organizes volunteer outings for our employees throughout the year. These outings give employees an opportunity to get out of the office for a day or for a few hours and give back to the communities we serve. n

2022

What role does diversity and inclusion play in your hiring and promotion decisions? Di-

versity, equity, inclusion and belonging are keys to the success of our work at Children’s Friend.

We work to ensure these principles are represented in all levels and aspects of our agency, including board, employee and client groups and task forces, compensation, training and performance expectations.

Children’s Friend and Service

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 381 CEO AND PRESIDENT

DAVID CAPRIO

Questions answered by:

DAVID CAPRIO

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? We have a focus and commitment to develop and

promote our employees. We give preference to existing staff in promotion opportunities. In fact, the majority of our executive leadership team represents internal promotions. n

A Best Place to Work for Everyone We’re so proud to be honored as a Best Place to Work for our colleagues in every part of Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island.

Treating each other—and our customers—with respect and understanding.

It’s what we live for.

BESTPLACES TO ★

AWARDS

2022

Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

EC-731100 5/22

www.pbn.com | BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | JUNE 2022

| 17

LARGE COMPANIES

WORK★RI

SAFETY FIRST: Staffers for R.I. Housing and Mortgage Finance Corp. prep to work at a project site.

SWEET EVENING: BankNewport employees distribute candy as part of a Halloween event on the pedestrian bridge in Providence.

COURTESY R.I. HOUSING AND MORTGAGE FINANCE CORP.

COURTESY BANKNEWPORT

6

7

What three words best describe your staff? Dedicated, innovative, mission driven.

What three words best describe your staff? Dedicated, knowledgeable, resilient.

How do you support community service work by your employees? Our 2021 philan-

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? Online well-

ness sessions; mental health sessions – chair yoga, mindfulness sessions; ice cream truck annual visit; Lunch & Learns (with company-provided lunch); Virgin Pulse challenges.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? An incredible team working together

to maximize, innovate and fortify the programs and services that support our mission to provide housing options to low- and moderate-income Rhode Islanders made even more critical during the pandemic.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? We

R.I. Housing and Mortgage Finance Corp.

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 240 CEO AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

CAROL VENTURA

Questions answered by: HUMAN RESOURCES GENERALIST

CAROLYN BLECHARCZYK

prefer to promote existing staff to retain and enhance their expertise to the benefit of the organization and the mission and to provide staff with growth opportunities and challenges, thereby strengthening staff engagement. n

thropic efforts resulted in over $1.2 million awarded to over 350 nonprofits. Organizations in every county of Rhode Island benefited from the giving effort, with areas of impact focused on basic human needs, children and families, education, economic security, healthy living, arts and culture, and the environment. All told, BankNewport has awarded $7 million in grants, sponsorships and donations to a wide range of nonprofits over the past 11 years to help strengthen and enrich lives and communities throughout the state. It’s what we love the most about our jobs.

2022

BankNewport

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 286 CEO AND PRESIDENT

JOHN F. MURPHY

Questions answered by: VICE PRESIDENT AND DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

ELENA HAROOTUNIAN

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? We understand the

importance of offering our employees career development opportunities and strive to promote from within whenever the opportunity arises. Managers are also encouraged to speak to employees about their career aspirations and help guide employees in their career development, preparing them for any open positions that may open. n

We have the best...

FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE

BEST PLACES

TO WORK

It’s no wonder that, for multiple years now, we have been named a “Best Place to Work in Rhode Island.”

We are committed to providing

We are grateful to our valued employees who bring their skills, collaboration and professionalism to Brown Medicine every day.

top-quality architectural design, engineering, production, fabrication, application, and installation solutions.

brownmed.org An equal opportunity employer

LOCKHEEDSOLUTIONS.COM (800) 537-3061

18 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

LARGE COMPANIES

WORK★RI

THE GREAT OUTDOORS: Employees from Dominion Diagnostics LLC gather last year for an event celebrating being named to Providence Business News’ Best Places to Work list.

COURTESY DOMINION DIAGNOSTICS LLC

8

have an employee assistance program in place, a wellness program, which included chair massages for the lab staff. We also implemented a companypaid COVID-19 leave policy for employees which is still enforced.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We have several

events for the North Kingstown employees, including Celebrating Lab Week with meals, food trucks, games, contests and raffles. We also have activities around wellness such as a Walking Club, Gardening Club and Pet Lovers Club.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why?

HOLIDAY SPIRIT: Performance Physical Therapy’s leadership team celebrates the start of a new year last year.

COURTESY PERFORMANCE PHYSICAL THERAPY

9

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? We

What three words best describe your staff? Responsible, forward thinking, kind.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? Annual #SOM

Dominion Diagnostics LLC

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 213 CEO

ROBERT M. GARVEY JR.

Questions answered by: VICE PRESIDENT OF ­HUMAN RESOURCES

DENISE DRISCOLL

We have a preference to promote from within to develop existing employees through training and mentorship. It is important to retain our employees and support our business by maintaining long-term relationships with our clients and customers. n

2022

(September of Move) – monthlong celebration/competition between clinics with fun challenges that support health and wellness. Friday care to wear/ dress down days, initiations to various events in the communities we serve.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? A culture that is driven by behaviors

that align with our beliefs. Our beliefs: care deeply, grow forward, lead the way and create joy.

What role do diversity and inclusion play in your hiring and promotion decisions? A lot! We

Performance Physical Therapy

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 280 CEO

MICHELLE COLLIE

Questions answered by:

MICHELLE COLLIE

consider verbiage, images, where we are advertising and recruiting. Ultimately, we choose the best candidate for the position while ensuring we reach out to all sectors and communities with regard to our opportunities.

What was a new employee benefit(s) or initiative(s) in the past 12 months? We offer student loan principal repayment of $20,000 over five years,

as well as sign-on and referral bonuses. n

THANK YOU TO OUR INCREDIBLE EMPLOYEES!

DISCOVERY TIME: Narragansett Bay Commission’s Cynthia Morissette works with participants in the organization’s Watershed Explorers program.

COURTESY NARRAGANSETT BAY COMMISSION

10

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in?

We do daily group stretching, a Halloween costume and pumpkin decorating contest, Spirit Week, a plastic-free month and hold an employee appreciation event.

How do you support community service work by your employees? We publicly acknowledge and

salute individual employees who participate in community service in our monthly company newsletter.

The commission also creates opportunities for our employees to give back to the community through a series of commission-sponsored charitable events.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? Our

RHODE ISLAND'S TRUSTED IT SECURITY, COMPLIANCE, & RISK MANAGEMENT PARTNER. CONTACT US TODAY TO DISCUSS WWW.COMPASSITC.COM YOUR UNIQUE CHALLENGES!

Narragansett Bay Commission

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 268 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

LAURIE

HORRIDGE preference is to always look internally when new Questions answered by: career opportunities arise. Our policy is to post TRAINING FACILITATOR positions internally first to review the quality of our PETER YIDIARIS own candidates before opening up a position to the general public. This approach has a positive impact on employee engagement and provides the commission with candidates who have the institutional knowledge that is so valuable within our industry. n

www.pbn.com | BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | JUNE 2022

| 19

LARGE COMPANIES

WORK★RI

HIGH ROLLERS: Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick Ltd. staffers gather for an administration team bowling outing.

RACING ALONG: Brown Medicine staffers participate in the annual Gloria Gemma 5K road race in downtown Providence.

COURTESY CHISHOLM CHISHOLM & KILPATRICK LTD.

COURTESY BROWN MEDICINE

11

What three words best describe your staff?

Highly motivated, supportive, professional.

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? We Chisholm Chisholm are hiring more employees to help spread the workload to reduce burnout. We continue to offer firmwide outings as an outlet for employee fun, camaraderie and increased morale. We also enhanced employee appreciation by giving away raffle prizes to show support for our team and recognize contributions more frequently.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? CCK encourages the use of a free well-

& Kilpatrick Ltd. EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 266 FOUNDING PARTNERS

ROBERT V. CHISHOLM AND J. SCOTT KILPATRICK Questions answered by: PARTNERS

ROBERT V. CHISHOLM, J. SCOTT KILPATRICK, BARBARA J. COOK, ZACHARY M. STOLZ, MASON J. WARING AND BRADLEY W. HENNINGS

ness application, an employee assistance program and a weekly group exercise class with a personal trainer. Our on-site wellness rooms are equipped with massage chairs, happy lights and diffusers. We augmented the office with more plants and softer lighting to provide a more comfortable environment. n

12

What three words best describe your staff? Dedicated, innovative, creative.

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? Formalized

remote work schedules and use of Zoom meetings on an ongoing basis to acknowledge our staff’s desire for flexibility.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? Brown employee

2022

Brown Medicine

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 477 CEO

ANN M. KASHMANIAN

appreciation day, a day when we bring in food Questions answered by: ANN M. trucks or boxed lunches to all locations providing KASHMANIAN an opportunity for staff to mingle with their fellow employees. Sponsor and participate in walk-a-thons and other events to bring teams of employees together in a common cause.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? The culture of Brown Medicine supports our values of dignity, collaboration, integrity, equity, inclusion, respect for diversity, and quality in support of the Brown Medicine mission to deliver compassionate, high-quality patient care, research excellence and outstanding physician education within a culturally sensitive environment. n

Hats off to all of the companies being honored this year.

Embrace Home Loans congratulates all of the winners of the 2022 Best Places to Work award.

It’s an honor to be among such a celebrated group.

We would also like to thank our employees, who helped us achieve this tribute for the 17th consecutive year.

It’s through our core values – Community, Courage, Empowerment, Fulfillment, Love, Innovation, and Achievement – that Embrace continues to be a great place to work, grow, and find purpose.

800.333.3004

www.embracehomeloans.com Licensed in 50 states, plus DC. Seven times recognized by Fortune as a Top 25 Mid-Size Company to Work for in America.

Embrace Home Loans is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

NMLS ID # 2184

20 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

401(k)/retirement plan

PTO for volunteering

Telecommuting options

Tuition reimbursement offered

Stress and wellness programs

Workplace fitness facilities

Support community service initiatives

Career-development programs

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

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✔

✔

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✔

✔

✔

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12

✔

✔

✔

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✔

✔

✔

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✔

14

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

61%

✔

10

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

35%

72%

✔

7

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

268

7%

37%

✔

11

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

Legal services

266

29%

69%

12

✔

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✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

Health care provider

477

15%

69%

11

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✔

✔

✔

Company name

Person in charge

Type of business

No. of local employees

% of voluntary turnover

% of women employees

Flexible work hours

Holidays per year

Sick days for ill-dependent

(based on companies with 150-499 regional employees)

New policies responding to COVID-19

Diversity training

BEST BESTPLACES PLACESTOTOWORK WORK- -LARGE LARGECOMPANIES COMPANIES(based on companies with 150-499 regional employees)

1

Embrace Home Loans Inc.

Dennis Hardiman

Financial services

450

4%

50%

✔

7

2

Gilbane Building Co.

Thomas F. Gilbane Jr.; Thomas Laird Jr.

Construction

185

12%

48%

✔

9

✔

3

Starkweather & Shepley Insurance Brokerage Inc.

Lawrence E. Keefe

Insurance

157

8%

68%

12

✔

4

Navigant Credit Union

Gary E. Furtado

Credit union

346

13%

73%

13

✔

5

Children's Friend and Service

David Caprio

Nonprofit

381

22%

92%

11

6

R.I. Housing and Mortgage Finance Corp.

Carol Ventura

Financial services

240

7%

70%

✔

7

BankNewport

John F. Murphy

Financial institution

286

16%

23%

8

Dominion Diagnostics LLC

Robert M. Garvey Jr.

Biomedical manufacturer

213

30%

9

Performance Physical Therapy

Michelle Collie

Physical therapy practice

280

Narragansett Bay Commission

Laurie Horridge

Nonprofit

Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick Ltd.

J. Scott Kilpatrick; Robert V. Chisholm

Brown Medicine

Ann M. Kashmanian; Dr. Louis Rice

2022 rank

10 11 12

✔

✔

✔

SANSIVERI, KIMBALL & CO., LLP C E RT I F I E D P U B L I C A C C O U N TA N T S • B U S I N E S S A DV I S O R S

www.pbn.com | BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | JUNE 2022

| 21

MIDSIZE COMPANIES (50-149 EMPLOYEES) EDWARD D. JONES & CO. LP

Building connections with clients and staff

1

BY JOHN A. LAHTINEN

|

2022

CONNECTED: Pictured are members of the Edward D. Jones & Co. LP branch team of Ronda Warrener in North Kingstown, from left: Branch Office Administrator Cindy Roy, Warrener and Branch Office Administrator Jessica Jimenez.

Contributing Writer

COURTESY EDWARD D. JONES & CO. LP

CONTRARY TO THE SAYING, sometimes big things do come in “big” packages. With more than 15,000 locations across the U.S., including in Rhode Island, Edward D. Jones & Co. LP, doing business as Edward Jones, is the country’s largest financial services firm in terms of financial advisers and branch offices.

But what really sets Edward Jones apart isn’t its size but the company’s ability to make such a personal connection with its clients and associates. From saving for college or retirement to creating a long-term investment plan that emphasizes a well-balanced portfolio, the firm’s financial advisers work closely with clients to fully understand their personal goals.

“Every aspect of our business, from investment types to branch locations, is designed to cater to more than 7 million clients in communities where they live and work,” said Penny Pennington, managing partner. “We embrace the importance of building long-term, face-toface relationships with clients, helping them to understand and make sense of the investment options available today.”

Edward Jones is grounded in four core values – client focus; respect for individuals; a long-term, quality investment philosophy; and a spirit of partnership. That partnership is not only in spirit but also in structure, as more than half of the firm’s associates own part of the firm through a limited partnership.

“Owners think differently than employees, having a vested interest in the success of the firm, and are motivated to make the best decisions with the firm’s interest in mind,” Pennington said. “As a partnership, there are no stockholders to answer to, only the firm itself, and that ensures that clients’ interests always come first.”

With the goal of best serving its clients, each of the firm’s neighborhood branches has a financial adviser and a branch office administrator on hand.

“These firm associates come to Edward

WORK★RI

Jones for a career, not a job,” Pennington said.

“They find flexible, family-friendly workplaces near their own homes, satisfying work helping clients achieve their goals, and lots of support by their regions and home office personnel.”

Deemed an essential industry when the COVID-19 pandemic began, Edward Jones was able to remain focused on the health and wellbeing of its clients, associates, their families and communities, while also taking the necessary steps to protect those groups.

“Thousands of associates switched to remote work and while local, two-person branch

‘We commit to giving everyone a voice.’

PENNY PENNINGTON, Edward D. Jones & Co. LP managing partner

Edward D. Jones & Co. LP EMPLOYEES IN R.I. 61 MANAGING PARTNER

Penny Pennington

offices were allowed to remain open to associates who could follow appropriate health guidance, they were closed to the public for safety reasons and new cleaning procedures were adopted,” said John Leary, a financial adviser who opened a Barrington branch office in 2003.

As the pandemic lingers, Edward Jones’ support for associates remains steadfast. In January, the firm announced five additional paid days off in connection with the virus.

Associates faced with financial challenges from the pandemic can look for help from the Edward Jones Disaster Relief Fund to which associates and retirees donated nearly $1 million to assist colleagues.

“To help ease concerns around health expenses, our medical plan provides no-cost care for COVID-related testing and treatment,” Pennington said. “And to remove barriers to care, the firm waived the deductible for the treatment of COVID-19 from both in- and outof-network providers.”

An employee assistance program has provided much-needed support to firm families struggling to balance child care, at-home learning and work.

“We take care of each other in tough times, whether it is the pandemic, a cancer diagnosis or a family crisis,” Leary said. “Leaders are authorized to do the right thing to help associates navigate personal difficulties, whether that means extra time off, special pay arrangements, a loan, a health benefits exception or preventative programs to head off a crisis.”

Recently, the firm has placed a strong focus on the persistence of racism and discrimination throughout communities by bolstering its promise to diversity, equity and inclusion.

“Edward Jones is a place of belonging,” Pennington said. “We stand for inclusion. We commit to giving everyone a voice. We commit to a continued focus on equitable hiring, training, promotional practices and policies. We commit to equitable pay. We commit to racial-equity training and anti-racism personnel policies.” n

22 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

MIDSIZE COMPANIES

WORK★RI

GETTING RECOGNIZED: Swarovski Optik North America Ltd. employees get ready to attend Providence Business News’ 2021 Best Places to Work virtual event.

COURTESY SWAROVSKI OPTIK NORTH AMERICA LTD.

2

America has an inclusive workplace culture that fosters a strong sense of family. Swarovski Optik is a team that emphasizes our core values of respect, trust, cooperation and collaboration.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? The

Swarovski Optik Wellness Program was awarded Superior by Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island’s Worksite Health Program for providing on-site and remote activities that encourage participation in a healthy lifestyle and promote total well-being.

How do you support community service work by your employees? As part of our commitment

COMING ATTRACTION: Shawmut Design and Construction employee-owners oversee construction of Brown University’s new performing arts center.

COURTESY SHAWMUT DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

3

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Swarovski Optik North

Swarovski Optik North America Ltd.

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 100 CEO

ALBERT WANNENMACHER

Questions answered by: to diversity, equity and inclusion, Swarovski Optik ALBERT North America contributes to communities that ­WANNENMACHER we serve to promote understanding and respect for equality. During the past year, employees have participated with initiatives with the AJ’s Army, Mount Saint Charles Academy, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island, Operation Stand Down, Rhode Island Community Food Bank and Westbay Community Action. n

2022

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Our employees deliver the

most complex projects for the world’s most elite brands and institutions. We truly believe we’re building a better tomorrow. Superior structures.

Enhanced, engaged communities. It all requires efficiency, collaboration, transparency and integrity.

What role does diversity and inclusion play in your hiring and promotion decisions? Build-

ing a team diverse in people, ideas and experiences allows us to provide an unparalleled experience for our clients. Creating an inclusive environment where all employees can contribute to their fullest potential – and fostering an environment where everyone, from any background, can do their best work – is not only the right thing to do but something that is at the core of our culture.

Shawmut Design and Construction

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 68 CEO

LES HISCOE

Questions answered by: RHODE ISLAND SENIOR DIRECTOR

CHRIS MAURY

How do you support community service work by your employees?

We’re passionate about what we do, so we extend our skills to programs that drive medical advances, provide support and relief for those in need, create opportunities for student leaders and mentor the future talent of the architectural, engineering and construction industry. n

SUMMER WINE: CBIZ & Mayer Hoffman McCann PC employees gather for a summer outing at Newport Vineyards.

COURTESY CBIZ & MAYER HOFFMAN MCCANN PC

4

What three words best describe your staff? Committed, entrepreneurial, client focused.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We offer catered

lunches two times a week, breakfasts, and Wacky Wednesdays. For those working at home, we provided a stipend. In addition, we host two annual events. Our summer event was held at Newport Vineyards. The event includes awards, food, beverages, games and giveaways. Expanding the fun to family members, we sponsored a Fright Fest/Six Flags family fun day in October.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? The

CBIZ & MHM EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 89 SENIOR MANAGING DIRECTOR

SCOTT A. WRAGG

Questions answered by:

HUMAN RESOURCES CBIZ & MHM Great Health Program offers proDIRECTOR grams to assist our employees and their spouse/doBETH REAGAN mestic partner with everything from tips on healthy diets to finding a career mentor. The program also rewards employees who take steps to improve their own health with lower health insurance rates, including an employee assistance program and a health coach program. n

At Gilbane, we’re about people, relationships, and community.

It’s just how we’re built.

www.pbn.com | BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | JUNE 2022

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2022

ON-THE-JOB TRAINING: New England Construction Co. employees hold a Lunch and Learn Jobsite Tour at a construction site last fall.

MATCH POINT: DiSanto, Priest & Co. staff members gather to participate in a local volleyball tournament.

COURTESY NEW ENGLAND CONSTRUCTION

COURTESY DISANTO, PRIEST & CO.

5

6

What three words best describe your staff? Family, empathetic, dedicated.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We gather

quarterly to celebrate individual and company accomplishments and promote upcoming events and activities, including golf lessons; golf outings; lucky lunch celebrations; happy hour events; bowling events; food, ice cream and beverage truck visits; departmental team-building events; Red Sox and Bruins games; community service opportunities; 5K races; and our annual holiday party.

What role does diversity and inclusion play in your hiring and promotion decisions? We

What three words best describe your staff? Smart, driven, collaborative.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We hold

New England Construction Co. EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 61 CEO AND PRESIDENT

MATT SLUTER

Questions answered by:

MATT SLUTER

are steadfast in our efforts to create a safe and unified workspace at NEC. Our anti-racism, diversity, equity and inclusion strategy is focused on four pillars, and each of our new goals aligns with one of those: talent, education, culture, service. Every person who walks through our doors or onto one of our job sites needs to feel welcome and respected. That’s why we’re revisiting our practices and the training resources we offer to ensure they include anti-racism and anti-bias content. n

various activities for employees, including a Crazy Hat Day, a Crazy Sock Day, a Puzzle Challenge and some Nerf gun battles mixed in. We also hold a Dress Like You’re on a Zoom Call Day.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Our culture is built on the notion

that our people perform at their best as one team from a desire to excel rather than a fear of failure.

DiSanto, Priest & Co.

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 84 MANAGING PARTNER

EMILIO N. COLAPIETRO

Questions answered by:

EMILIO COLAPIETRO

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? The firm rolled out a new

wellness program to our employees to provide virtual health and nutrition services provided by licensed registered dietitians.

What was a new employee benefit(s) or initiative(s) in the past 12 months? We significantly increased financial incentives to our employees

who are pursuing their certified public accountant’s exam to support their career development. n

Thank you to all of our employees for your dedication, creativity and teamwork. YOU are the reason Brave River has been selected as one of the Best Places to Work in Rhode Island for the third year in a row!

And congratulations to all the other honorees.

For over 20 years, Brave River has been helping businesses transform with: Software Development, Hybrid Work Solutions, IT Support, Cybersecurity, Web Design, and Digital Marketing.

VIRTUAL REALITY: Hinckley Allen & Snyder LLP employees pose together, virtually, while participating in the American Heart Association Lawyers Have Heart virtual walk.

COURTESY HINCKLEY ALLEN & SNYDER LLP

7

What three words best describe your staff? Skilled, collaborative, grateful.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? The firm offers a wide variety of activities that take place annually and throughout the year. Our most notable annual activities include a book drive, backpack drive, Thanksgiving food drive, Christmas toy drive, firmwide picnic and a trivia night.

The activities that take place throughout the year include a monthly office social, various lunchn-learn programs and trainings, and individual practice group outings.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness?

875 Centerville Rd., Building 3, Warwick, RI 02886 Phone: (401) 828-6611 | Toll Free: (888) 828-8911 | BraveRiver.com

Hinckley Allen & Snyder LLP EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 104 MANAGING PARTNER

DAVID J. RUBIN Questions answered by: CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER

MEGAN MCCORMACK

In 2021, we rolled out a more robust work-fromhome/flexible work policy not only for our exempt professional staff and attorneys but also for our administrative staff. We also placed a high priority on promoting many of the “virtual” benefits that are offered by many of our vendors, including Doctors Online, tele-dentistry and our employee assistance program to further support our ­employees. n

24 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

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DEDICATION HONORED: Custom Computer Specialists LLC employees hold a “Years of Service” celebration recognizing longtime company members.

COURTESY CUSTOM COMPUTER SPECIALISTS LLC

8

FIGHTING CANCER: Rubius Therapeutics Inc. employees show support for one of the company’s patient advocacy partners, Cervivor, and its “Cancer Can Go Fly a Kite” event.

COURTESY RUBIUS THERAPEUTICS INC.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? Due to the

pandemic, our ability to have in-person events has been limited, so we have taken our fun activities virtual. This past year we hosted an online trivia night for all our employees and their families, with delivered snacks and fabulous prizes. We also held a virtual Broadway show for our employees and their families to kick off the holidays.

2022

Custom Computer Specialists LLC EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 56 FOUNDER AND CEO

GREGORY GALDI Questions answered by:

GREGORY GALDI

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? We are a family-oriented organization, putting our employees first. Our staff is our greatest asset. Their well-being and growth are our highest priorities and drive this into our culture.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? To foster wellness, we provide gym memberships for

our employees, monthly fitness challenges with healthy rewards and promote some healthy competition and fun. Also, as a token of our appreciation for our employees, we sent each individual a box of healthy snacks delivered to their home. n

ON TAP: Citrin Cooperman & Co. LLP employees enjoy some time at a local brewery last summer.

COURTESY CITRIN COOPERMAN & CO. LLP

10

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? We offer more flexibility with sched-

ules and working from home and opportunities to participate in more wellness programs such as virtual live meditation classes during the day to help relieve stress.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? Our firm offers a

Citrin Cooperman & Co. LLP EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 61 EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN AND CO-FOUNDER

variety of internal firm events, including holiday JOEL A. parties, an annual summer outing and post-busy COOPERMAN season parties. We also have a variety of sports Questions answered by: OFFICE MANAGING PARTNER clubs, including soccer, softball and kickball PETER BROWN teams. We kept the fun up during the pandemic and offered virtual opportunities to participate such as a movie group, book club, pet superlative booklet, etc.

What was a new employee benefit(s) or initiative(s) in the past 12 months? Recently our CC Empowering Diversity and Gender Equality Com-

mittee launched employee resource groups firmwide to further encourage and foster a diverse and inclusive workplace. n

9

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? We have implemented hybrid

work opportunities for certain roles that have time and location-based flexibility. Additionally, we have enhanced our Employee Assistance Program and other mental health awareness resources and opportunities, including seminars and wellness snacks.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in?

Rubius Therapeutics Inc. EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 101

CEO

PABLO J. MCAGNONI

Questions answered by: HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR

BRIANNE MEEHAN We have an annual company event off-site to get together informally outside of work, which we are looking forward to restarting this summer. Additionally, our employeeled activities team offers fun events, including game nights, ice cream trucks and opportunities to volunteer and give back locally.

What was a new employee benefit(s) or initiative(s) in the past 12 months? We recently added a new legal insurance benefit along with pet

insurance. When we launched pet insurance, we did a fun pet photo contest. n

#TeamUnited is all-in on uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders.

ROOT CAUSES. UNITED SOLUTIONS. We are grateful to be honored with PBN’s Best Places to Work recognition for 2022. www.unitedwayri.org

United Way of Rhode Island

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ON THE WATER: Staffers at Landings Management LLC enjoy a boat ride at a recent company outing.

GROUP PROJECT: Picerne Real Estate Group employees gather at a local construction site.

COURTESY LANDINGS MANAGEMENT LLC

COURTESY PICERNE REAL ESTATE GROUP

11

12

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? We have a flexible hybrid work situ-

Landings Management LLC

ation, which allows people to address their own individual needs. We have recognized in financial and other ways the extraordinary efforts and mental fatigue that has resulted from working with the public during these challenging times.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? The lifting of

COVID-19 restrictions has allowed us to bring back our annual corporate outing, holiday celebrations, National Day celebrations, inter-office competitions, and individual office outings and gatherings.

2022

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 77 PRESIDENT

CHRISTOPHER BICHO

Questions answered by:

CHRISTOPHER BICHO

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? Time off when requested and working around special needs on an individual basis. We have offered mental health days across the board and individually. n

What three words best describe your staff? Hardworking, loyal, ­passionate.

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? We’ve focused on morale, engagement and the employee experience by adapting many policies and procedures in creative ways to offer more flexibility and fun at work.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We fondly offer our

Picerne Real Estate Group

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 119 CEO AND PRESIDENT

DAVID PICERNE

companywide annual Maintenance Appreciation Questions answered by: Week, summer barbecue and exquisite country SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT club holiday party as our cornerstone events. We ED WERNECKE also regularly thank our teams in smaller groups with appreciation outings such as day trips to Block Island, team dinners, networking events and milestone celebrations.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? Health education and lifestyle initiatives, preventive care,

financial and social wellness, and morale are key components of our wellness program. n

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26 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

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PEACEFUL RETREAT: Sansiveri, Kimball & Co. LLP team members enjoy their firm retreat at the Edgewood Yacht Club.

COURTESY SANSIVERI, KIMBALL & CO. LLP

13

What role does diversity and inclusion play in your hiring and promotion decisions? We

are an equal opportunity employer and incorporate this policy into our practices for hiring and promotion decisions, but we also know that diversity and inclusion goes far beyond that and that we must continually work to create a culture of inclusion.

How do you support community service work by your employees? We support

Sansiveri, Kimball & Co. LLP EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 51 MANAGING PARTNER

JASON M. DAPONTE Questions answered by:

JASON M. DAPONTE

community service efforts by … offering opportunities for our employees to volunteer their time and talents in a variety of ways such as creating blankets for shut-ins, collecting items for Thanksgiving baskets for families in need and purchasing Christmas gifts for those less fortunate.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? We believe that our employees are our most valuable re-

source, and we are committed to investing in training and developing them to grow both professionally and personally. With this in mind, we also recognize the value that is added by bringing in outside talent to offer a fresh perspective and new ideas. n

2022

ON DECK: Employees for Coastline EAP/Rhode Island Student Assistance Services sit on a deck of a local restaurant catching fresh air.

COURTESY COASTLINE EAP

14

What three words best describe your staff? Committed, enthusiastic, ­professional.

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? Our school-based activities

Coastline EAP/Rhode Island Student Assistance Services

pivoted to offering web-based and videoEMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 92 conferencing activities to ensure services CEO continued to middle and high school SARAH DINKLAGE students in need. Our employee assistance program staff was able to easily transition Questions answered by: CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER to a work-from-home environment and KELLY WISHART implement telehealth-like services for clients in need. We also implemented a very well-received Wellness Series delivered via Zoom to help our client companies and their employees manage their stress.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? Some activities we offer are potluck lunches, Yankee Swap gift

giving and lunchtime walking partners. n

BUILDING BASKETS: Marasco & Nesselbush LLP employees visit the Jonnycake Center of Peace Dale to assemble and distribute Fourth of July baskets.

COURTESY MARASCO & NESSELBUSH LLP

15

What three words best describe your staff? Dedicated, motivated,

and compassionate.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We

have different event nights for staff and their families. Each October, we have a family day at a local farm in Lincoln, we have had a cooking night where we hired a wellness expert to teach us to make a healthy meal and we also spent a night at the Roger Williams holiday lights display, as well as many other activities sprinkled throughout the year.

How do you support community service work by your employees?

Marasco & Nesselbush LLP EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 59 PARTNERS

JOSEPH MARASCO AND DONNA NESSELBUSH Questions answered by: CLIENT AND CULTURE EXPERIENCE MANAGER

FRANCESCA LAMB

Each year, through the Marasco & Nesselbush Charitable Foundation, we support numerous charitable efforts and organizations that improve the lives of people throughout our communities. We encourage everyone on our team to contribute to the foundation and participate in our community events. Our continued investment and involvement in our own community are integral components of our firm’s core philosophy and value system. n

WHEN EMPLOYEES MATTER

Congratulations to our Rhode Island team for winning PBN’s Best Places to Work 4 years in a row! You make Connectivity Point the company it is today. Thank you.

Cabling  Audio/Visual  Security  Phone/Cloud Systems Sound Masking  Wireless  Cell Boosters  Service

connectivitypoint.com  866-782-0200

Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white.

For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

www.pbn.com | BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | JUNE 2022

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CONFERENCE CALL: Baystate Financial LLC employees gather for a recent conference at Wequassett Resort & Golf Club in Harwich, Mass.

COURTESY BAYSTATE FINANCIAL LLC

16

What three words best describe your staff? Dynamic, collaborative, loyal.

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? In response

to the pandemic, Baystate adapted by offering Zoom meetings for staff and clients. Remote/hybrid workplace options were given to associates. We provided COVID-19 testing kits and staff could go to vaccination appointments during the workday without taking paid-time-off time. To keep staff engaged during the pandemic, Baystate sent staff appreciation gifts such as gift cards to GrubHub and delicious whoopie pies to their homes.

2022

TOGETHER AGAIN: The Providence Mutual Fire Insurance Co. employees gather at a summer social, one of the company’s first in-person employee events since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

COURTESY THE PROVIDENCE MUTUAL FIRE INSURANCE CO.

Baystate Financial LLC EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 96 MANAGING PARTNER

DAVID PORTER

Questions answered by: MARKETING DIRECTOR

JILL CONSTANTINE

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? Baystate sponsors sports leagues that associates participate in such as

bowling, soccer and softball. We host annual associate outings to things such as comedy shows, bowling nights and river cruises.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Our culture is positive, people work hard, folks are held accountable and it is a family-oriented place to work. n

17

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? It is a

caring and supportive environment, focused on ensuring the mutual success of our employees, policyholders and agents.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? It is company policy to aid, encourage and

train employees so they may rise to the highest position possible. Promotion from within is a preferred policy. The company is constantly seeking employees who have the desire, ability, training and experience to fill higher positions.

What was a new employee benefit(s) or initiative(s) in the past 12 months? We

The Providence Mutual Fire Insurance Co. EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 88 CEO AND PRESIDENT

MICHELE STRETON

Questions answered by:

MICHELE STRETON

created a robust new employee onboarding process led by human resources and the hiring manager that provides a customized plan that includes introductions, orientation, systems training and specific role observations to ensure new employees have the information, connections and support needed to be successful in the role and to feel immediately as an important part of the Providence Mutual community. n

Cyber Security  Cloud Compliance  IT Services Official IT Company for BigsRI!

We’re proud to make the list!

GOOD READING: United Way of Rhode Island Inc. employees attend a recent outdoor event to promote reading for children.

COURTESY UNITED WAY OF RHODE ISLAND INC.

18

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? We foster a culture

that embraces equity, encourages individual leadership, leverages strengths, fosters accountability and enhances cross-organizational connection to the mission, vision, values and fundamentals of United Way of Rhode Island.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? We

IT SUPPORT RI 401.522.5200  ITsupportRI.com

believe that employees who feel well, do well. We have a range of employee wellness initiatives, including our new employee wellness room, speakers and facilitators who provide proactive solutions to wellness such as art, meditation, journaling and more.

Finally, for staff who need more direct support, we have an active employee access program available to our entire team.

United Way of Rhode Island Inc.

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 83 CEO AND PRESIDENT

CORTNEY NICOLATO

Questions answered by:

CORTNEY NICOLATO

How do you support community service work by your employees? “Community First” is our motto here at United Way of

Rhode Island. It’s central to the work we do but we also believe in supporting our staff in giving back to the community. We create space and encourage staff to volunteer for local nonprofits and to engage civically in their community. n

28 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

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RECEIVING GOODIES: Rhode Island Parent Information Network staffers enjoy the “SWAG” drive-up distribution day before the organization’s virtual All Staff Event held during the COVID-19 pandemic.

COURTESY RHODE ISLAND PARENT INFORMATION NETWORK

19

staff with work schedule flexibility and allowed for remote work arrangements. In addition, RIPIN has adopted and expanded leave policies to include leave eligibility due to lack of child care, limited services available for individuals with disabilities and remote learning.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? This year, RIPIN

has planned multiple virtual all-staff meetings that included lunchtime meetups, wellness/relaxation activities, and a group creative activity. RIPIN has recently offered optional lunch get-togethers at our offices.

What role does diversity and inclusion play in your hiring and promotion decisions? RIPIN will

HAPPY TRAILS: The Town Dock employees hold a celebratory retirement party with the company’s finance team.

COURTESY THE TOWN DOCK

20

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? Throughout the pandemic, we have provided

Rhode Island Parent Information Network

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 110 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

SAMUEL SALGANIK

Questions answered by: GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

EMILY GARTHEE

make reasonable efforts to make accommodations for an otherwise qualified applicant/employee who has a disability. n

2022

What three words best describe your staff? Driven, dedicated,

­passionate.

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages?

We have distributed “stress relief packages” to all employees, including a gift card for lunch, stress balls, lavender oil, webinars and information for stress management. The company has staggered work from home as applicable to departments and offered fun outdoor events, such as a new company golf league.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? The Town

The Town Dock EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 55 CEO AND PRESIDENT

RYAN CLARK

Questions answered by:

RYAN CLARK

Dock hosts an annual employee appreciation month and other engaging, fun activities such as food trucks, “spin the wheel” for gifts, gear distribution with the company logo, ice cream trucks, charcuterie board virtual demonstration, raffles for Red Sox tickets and get-togethers such as the summer outing and annual holiday party. n

MAKING FRIENDS: Team members from Kahn, Litwin, Renza & Co. Ltd. take part in an “Adopt A Family” initiative held by Children’s Friend and Service.

COURTESY KAHN, LITWIN, RENZA & CO. LTD.

21

What three words best describe your staff? Smart, passionate, entrepreneurial.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness?

We have expanded our health care program to include an app to help track exercise, nutrition, doctors’ visits and prescriptions. The app awards points toward gifts/prizes when employees complete any of their wellness activities. KLR also closed all offices for 10 days in July to allow employees to recharge after months of hard and demanding work to help our clients succeed in a difficult environment.

How do you support community service work by your employees? Community service has

Kahn, Litwin, Renza & Co. Ltd.

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 149 MANAGING DIRECTOR

ALAN H.

always been ingrained in our company spirit and is LITWIN a value upon which we were founded. We encourage Questions answered by: our staff to volunteer their time at various organizaALAN H. LITWIN tions through memberships, active participation and support. While our community service plans are always evolving, spreading kindness and support through food drives, walks, donations, and family resource programs resumed in person and virtually when necessary. n

Congratulations to the AVTECH Team for the well-deserved Best Places to Work Award! Our staff is the #1 reason why AVTECH truly is a wonderful place to work here in Rhode Island.

We are thrilled & honored!

Thank You To All Of Our Employees!

AVTECH.com

401-628-1600

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TACO TIME: Tockwotton on the Waterfront employees get in line for tacos from a Street Corn Taco food truck.

DIAMOND JUBILEE: Pariseault Builders Inc. employees have lunch at the company’s 75th anniversary event at Camp Yawgoog in Hopkinton.

COURTESY TOCKWOTTON ON THE WATERFRONT

COURTESY PARISEAULT BUILDERS INC.

22

23

What three words best describe your staff? Compassionate, team players,

dependable.

staff and residents have strong bonds similar to a family relationship.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness?

Wellness program through our health insurance that incentivizes staff to exercise.

What role does diversity and inclusion play in your hiring and promotion decisions? It plays a

big role, as our workforce is extremely diverse.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? We

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? We

always find a way. We take personal responsibility for making things happen. If we see it, we own it and make sure it gets done. We see issues through to their completion.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? We are family here at Tockwotton. The

Tockwotton on the Waterfront EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 119 CEO AND PRESIDENT

KEVIN MCKAY

Questions answered by: HUMAN RESOURCE DIRECTOR

SANDRA BOTELHO

prefer to promote from within. Our staff members are hard, dedicated workers and we would like to see them grow with our c­ ompany.

What was a new employee benefit(s) or initiative(s) in the past 12 months? Student loan repayment; COVID-19 bonuses; refer a friend bonus; work from home. n These answers are reprinted from the 2021 awards program.

2022

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? We just rolled out an employee

assistance program that provides the following services: mental health support/counseling; child care; elder care; legal consultations; and financial wellness.

Pariseault Builders Inc.

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 69 PRESIDENT

BRIAN CASEY

Questions answered by:

BRIAN CASEY

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? We love promoting from within. In addition to being rewarding, it inspires the entrepreneurial spirit that we crave here at PBI.

What was a new employee benefit(s) or initiative(s) in the past 12 months? In addition to an in-house apprenticeship program, we started Pari-

seault Builders University this year. A syllabus has been designed for monthly classes taught by experts from outside and inside the organization on important areas and skill sets for our industry. n

We grow stronger each year by enduring challenges together.

WALKING FOR A CAUSE: Westerly Community Credit Union employees participate in a walk to support Alzheimer’s disease awareness.

COURTESY WESTERLY COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

The Amica family has been standing strong for 115 years and counting.

We’re honored to be named one of the Best Places to Work in Rhode Island by Providence Business News.

Congratulations to all the other honorees!

24

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? Our company adapted tby committing

resources to improve our ability to offer services to our members more efficiently through remote channels and on-site technology. We have also enhanced the technical capabilities of support staff to work remotely when circumstances warrant.

How do you support community service work by your employees? As part of our “WCCU Cares”

Westerly Community Credit Union

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 71 CEO AND PRESIDENT

STEPHEN

WHITE initiative, all team members are encouraged to parQuestions answered by: ticipate in community service activities either at our STEPHEN WHITE sponsored events or with outside organizations that enhance the lives of the people in communities we serve. We hold a quarterly raffle for team members who volunteer their time and once a year give out a “Volunteer of the Year” award to the team member who was deemed to have gone above and beyond the previous year.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? We want our team members to know that if they develop

professionally and perform well, they will have an opportunity to advance. n

30 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

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INCLUDING EVERYBODY: Marcum LLP staffers attend Providence Business News’ 2021 Diversity & Inclusion Awards & Summit event at the Crowne Plaza Providence-Warwick in Warwick.

COURTESY MARCUM LLP

25

BOATING BUNCH: Hanna Instruments Inc. employees settle in on a boat tour in Chicago.

COURTESY HANNA INSTRUMENTS INC.

26

What three words best describe your staff? Passionate, dedicated,

entrepreneurial.

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? We just

Did your organization offer funding or other assistance to the community during the pandemic? We donated a percent-

age of our website sales to the United Way of Rhode Island COVID-19 Response Fund.

Marcum LLP

rolled out an increased paid-time-off program, summer Fridays and extended holiday time off.

Marcum Wellness initiatives include weekly meditation and yoga classes and a national walking challenge in which teams compete to get the most steps within a month – and winners receive $100 gift cards.

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 94 MANAGING PARTNER

THOMAS E. LISI Questions answered by: HUMAN RESOURCES ADMINISTRATOR

MIA FRIGO

How do you support community service work by your employees? The Marcum Foundation raises funds and vol-

unteers for select charities through special events, associate giving and other initiatives – providing the critical assistance needed for organizations that offer essential services in health and safety, education and self-esteem, food and shelter, and family and well-being. The foundation has donated more than $3.9 million to worthy causes since its inception. n

What role does diversity and inclusion play in your hiring and promotion decisions? When

recruiting, we place ads in multiple publications to draw a diverse pool of candidates. We also offer mandatory compliance training that addresses diversity and inclusion.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why?

80%

Hanna Instruments Inc.

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 97 CEO AND PRESIDENT

MARTINO NARDO

Questions answered by: VICE PRESIDENT OF GLOB-

We are launching a career development program AL HUMAN RESOURCES and have a robust talent management philosophy ANGELA IACUELE to promote from within when possible. However, in certain situations we need to bring in outside talent with fresh ideas.

What was a new employee benefit(s) or initiative(s) in the past 12 months? Bonuses were paid to all “essential” workers during the pandemic.

It should be noted that Hanna pays 100% of all health care costs for all employees and has recently implemented a flexible spending option. n These answers are reprinted from the 2021 awards program.

t a h t e l p o e p e h t Reach with marketing that matter - r target audience . hits you

“ “

2022

sion are deci pany. s r e d a e of PBN r ithin their com w makers saying… r readers are u o t a h w ’s re He

Your publication is informative and always interesting. It should be must reading for anyone attempting to do business in Rhode Island.”

“ “ “

LOVE the PBN, particularly the BOOK OF LISTS and the digital now that I am working remotely.”

I like the newer format with each issue taking a deeper dive into one subject.”

The PBN is the best source for RI news.”

Keep up the good work.

Great content and appreciate hearing from leadership at Rhode Island employers.”

*Reader comments from the July 2020 CVC PBN subscriber survey.

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| 31

MIDSIZE COMPANIES

WORK★RI

ROUNDTABLE GATHERING: Lockheed Architectural Solutions Inc. team members last year have dinner at a golf outing at Granite Links Golf Club in Quincy, Mass.

HAVING A BLAST: Vertikal6 employees have a Nerf gun tournament at the office.

COURTESY VERTIKAL6

2022

COURTESY LOCKHEED ARCHITECTURAL SOLUTIONS INC.

27

What three words best describe your staff? Intelligent, driven, caring.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in?

28

Our Activities Committee plans numerous events throughout the year for both in-office and afterVertikal6 hours fun. Monthly lunches centered around EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 53 celebrating employee birthdays and work anCEO niversaries. Our annual holiday party is hosted RICK NORBERG at a local venue where we pay for employees and Questions answered by: their guest, dinner, entertainment, etc. The Rhode RICK NORBERG Runner Award is a monthly peer-voted award, not open to management, for exceptional team players throughout the month. Five Star Award is given to a support team member based on an exceptional customer service survey response.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? At Vertikal6, the foundation of our culture comes from our six core values: care deeply, innovate relentlessly, service sincerely, collaborate feverishly, listen earnestly and improve eternally. They are fused into how we work and what we do. We stress that all voices and opinions within the company matter and all good ideas should rise to the top. n

What three words best describe your staff? Loyal, passionate, talented.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? Our

employees have the opportunity to have a voice in marketing materials through testimonials, and there are many company functions throughout the year, such as core management meetings off-site, as well as companywide gatherings to build camaraderie and a team-focused environment.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? The culture of the company is driven

and focused, while also encouraging employee voices in an open forum where everyone is held accountable, but they are also given the support and resources to be successful.

Lockheed Architectural Solutions Inc.

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 120 PRESIDENT

MICHAEL KOSIVER

Questions answered by:

MICHAEL KOSIVER

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? One of our core philosophies is promotion from within, as

we want people to grow within the organization, and provide an opportunity for entry-level staff to be promoted if they have the talent, desire and applicable skill set. We continually hire new staff from the outside when needed, and they are offered the same opportunities for training and support. n

STAY INFORMED. STAY COMPETITIVE. Your go-to source for in-depth and breaking news covering the Rhode Island and Southeastern MA business community.

VISIT PBN.COM/SUBSCRIBE TODAY

32 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

9

2

Swarovski Optik North America Ltd.

Albert Wannenmacher

Manufacturer

100

4%

41%

✔

12

3

Shawmut Design and Construction

Les Hiscoe

Construction

68

0%

43%

✔

20

4

CBIZ & Mayer Hoffman McCann PC 1

Scott A. Wragg

Accounting

89

15%

54%

✔

10

5

New England Construction Co.

David Sluter; Matt Sluter

Construction

61

18%

23%

✔

11

6

DiSanto, Priest & Co.

Emilio N. Colapietro

Accounting firm

84

11%

57%

7

Hinckley, Allen & Snyder LLP 2

David J. Rubin

Legal

104

6%

63%

8

Custom Computer Specialists LLC

Gregory Galdi

Information technology services

56

24%

9

Rubius Therapeutics Inc.

Pablo J. Cagnoni

Biopharmaceutical manufacturer

56

10

Citrin Cooperman & Co. LLP

Joel A. Cooperman

Accounting firm

11

Landings Management LLC 3

Christopher Bicho

12

Picerne Real Estate Group

13

Career-development programs

✔

Support community service initiatives

54%

Workplace fitness programs

9%

Stress and wellness programs

61

Tuition reimbursement offered

Holidays per year

Financial services

Telecommuting options

Flexible work hours

Penny Pennington

Bonus or incentive programs

% of women employees

Edward D. Jones & Co. LP

401(k)/retirement plan

% of voluntary turnover

1

Diversity training

Type of business

New policies responding to COVID-19

Person in charge

2022 rank

Sick days for ill-dependent

Company name

No. of local employees

BEST PLACES TO WORK - MIDSIZE COMPANIES BEST - MIDSIZE (based onPLACES companiesTO withWORK 50-149 regional employees)COMPANIES (based on companies with 50-149 regional employees)

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9

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11

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30%

8

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14%

82%

14

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61

10%

57%

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8

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Property management

77

35%

57%

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10

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David Picerne

Real estate

119

28%

28%

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Sansiveri, Kimball & Co. LLP

Jason DaPonte

Accounting

51

9%

65%

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14

Coastline EAP/Rhode Island Student Assistance Services

Sarah Dinklage

Health nonprofit

92

19%

100%

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

15

Marasco & Nesselbush LLP

Joseph Marasco; Donna Nesselbush

Law firm

59

12%

76%

✔

✔

✔

✔

16

Baystate Financial

David Porter

Financial services

96

5%

39%

✔

✔

17

The Providence Mutual Fire Insurance Co.

Michelle Streton

Insurance

88

11%

64%

18

United Way of Rhode Island Inc.

Cortney Nicolato

Nonprofit

83

8%

89%

✔

16

19

Rhode Island Parent Information Network

Samuel Salganik

Nonprofit

110

3%

79%

✔

12

The Town Dock

Ryan Clark

Seafood manufacturer

55

5%

47%

21

Kahn, Litwin, Renza & Co. Ltd. 4

Alan H. Litwin

Accounting firm

149

4%

53%

22

Tockwotton on the Waterfront

Kevin McKay

Nursing and assisted living

109

NA

NA

23

Pariseault Builders Inc.

Brian Casey

Construction management firm

69

13%

10%

24

Westerly Community Credit Union

Stephen White

Credit union

71

15%

52%

25

Marcum LLP

Thomas E. Lisi

Financial services

94

25%

49%

26

Hanna Instruments Inc.

Martino Nardo; David Minsk

Manufacturer of analytical instrumentation

92

21%

43%

27

Vertikal6

Rick Norberg

Comprehensive, strategy-driven managed IT services

53

28%

19%

✔

10

28

Lockheed Architectural Solutions Inc.

Michael Kosiver

Construction

120

18%

12%

✔

10

20

1 Also known as CBIZ & MHM Inc. 2 Also known as Hinckley Allen.

3 Also known as Landings Real Estate Group 4 Also known as KLR.

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11

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11

13

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11

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10

9

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10

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10

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7

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12

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7

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www.pbn.com | BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | JUNE 2022

| 33

SMALL COMPANIES (15-49 EMPLOYEES) BRAVE RIVER SOLUTIONS INC.

BY ANTHONY VECCHIONE | Contributing Writer

COURTESY BRAVE RIVER SOLUTIONS INC.

BRAVE RIVER SOLUTIONS INC. President Jim McAssey describes his staff as innovative, passionate and dedicated. Established in 2000 in Warwick, the company specializes in web design and development, software development, information technology managed services, consulting services and digital marketing. The firm’s services are performed in-house.

In response to COVID-19 pandemic-related challenges, Brave River Solutions outfitted its employees with home offices and instituted a hybrid work schedule to allow continued remote work and flexible work schedules.

The company has always supported continued learning and recently purchased licenses to a learning management system, and it is crafting career paths to help all employees continue to develop their skills.

“Our employees have been very appreciative for the hybrid work schedule and home office setup,” McAssey said. “Our leadership team gave a lot of thought to how best to ‘come back to the office’ in 2021, and we chose to do two days per week where everyone comes in.

We enjoy the benefits of in-person collaboration [and] maintain our sense of culture and common purpose. We are all still conscious of being safe relative to COVID.” According to Molly Silva, accounting manager and human resources coordinator, the hybrid office schedule has been met with an overall positive response.

“It is a practical and valuable perk that ­really helps with work-life balance,” Silva said.

“All of our employees have unique situations outside the office, so having the flexibility of [a] hybrid office means something different in each case.”

One of the other initiatives that the company implemented since coming back to work after the initial COVID-19-related lockdown is having lunch brought into the office once a week.

“Again, the work-life balance benefits when

2022

TOP DESIGNERS: Brave River Solutions Inc. President Jim McAssey, left, and Director of Client Services Rebecca Arsenault celebrate their recently earned website design award for Outstanding Achievement in Web Development in the Best Photography Website category from the Web Marketing Association’s annual Web Awards competition with KingBirder.com founder and CEO Tom Younkin.

Diverse team at Brave River positions company for success

1

WORK★RI

we are properly fueled and have one less thing to worry about during the workday,” Silva said. “The employees know they will have appetizing, healthy options for lunch that they don’t have to prepare and pack or take the time to go out and pick up, and it’s on the company, so even better.”

Brave River Solutions prefers promoting existing staff, especially when it has an employee with the desire to advance and skills to take on additional responsibilities.

Management also values the expertise and fresh perspective that new hires bring to the table. It is this combination, the company says,

‘We put our heart and soul into the solutions that we build.’

JIM MCASSEY, Brave River Solutions Inc. president

Brave River Solutions Inc. EMPLOYEES IN R.I. 30 PRESIDENT

Jim McAssey

that allows it to continue to evolve its business practices and continuously improve what it does and how it does it.

“We are definitely in an interesting time relative to recruiting and hiring. While many companies have had distributed teams in the past, the pandemic has made that much more common and accepted for both employees and employers,” McAssey said. “Candidates who would historically only look for a local job – Rhode Island or nearby Massachusetts – are now interviewing and being hired for jobs all over the country/world.”

In the past 12 months, the company has implemented a technology-focused learning management system to facilitate the continued development of its employees, enabling them to remain technology leaders for its clients.

Having fun is also part of the corporate culture at Brave River Solutions. For example, quarterly staff meetings are followed by a gathering for informal social interaction. The company also offers a midday stroll where everyone can step away from their desks and get some fresh air and exercise. The company holds an annual summer family gathering, as well as a winter/holiday event.

McAssey asserts that Brave River and its employees genuinely care about their clients’ success.

“We strive to provide high-quality solutions, on time and within budget,” McAssey said. “Not to say we do not have issues or missteps, but at the end of the day, we put our heart and soul into the solutions that we build and the services that we provide, and it shows.”

McAssey said that the company has built a team with diverse skills and backgrounds and the leadership team is ensuring that they evolve, improve and stay relevant.

“With 22 years of experience and a team of dedicated, passionate technology experts, we are well positioned to continue this success,” McAssey said. n

34 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

SMALL COMPANIES

WORK★RI

CAMPING OUT: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island employees last year attend a family day celebration event at Camp Meehan in North Providence.

COURTESY BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF RHODE ISLAND

2

­intelligent.

our benefits package by adding tuition reimbursement and 100% employer-paid health premiums for eligible employees. We also started a Wellness and Spirit Committee.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We have an an-

nual family day for all staff and their families.

STAYING ALERT: AVTECH Software Inc. employees Rick Grundy, Anne Sigourney and Michael Sigourney pose with the company’s Room Alert ­environment monitor.

COURTESY AVTECH SOFTWARE INC.

What three words best describe your staff? Compassionate, hardworking,

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? We enhanced

2022

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 36 CEO

KATJE AFONSECA

Questions answered by:

KATJE AFONSECA

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Our workplace is filled with positivity, is mission-centered, puts

people first and we like to have fun.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? We offer a hybrid work schedule for our administrative positions and we have days off for employees to just take a break. n

3

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? We offer an environ-

ment where all team members are encouraged to share their ideas and experiences with other departments, and shared projects/goals are the standard rather than the exception.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness?

Flexible work locations and schedules, fully funded health care, and access to wellness apps and programs are offered to all team members.

How do you support community service work by your employees? Employees are

AVTECH Software Inc. EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 29 CEO AND FOUNDER

MICHAEL SIGOURNEY

encouraged to share the causes they are passionate about; AVTECH has sponsored or taken active roles in causes and organizations that our employees support.

Questions answered by: MARKETING AND CHANNEL COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

RUSSELL BENOIT

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? We always prefer to hire from within. Those employees

are familiar with our process and culture, and more importantly understand the team-building and skills that help drive our company forward. n

TEAM KSA Tenacity. Commitment. Bold Courage.

Your Partners In Productivity

Congratulations to all 2022 Honorees!

Thank you to our employees who made us a Best Place to Work!

Document Solutions

Managed Print Services

401-732-3000 Locations in RI, MA, CT & SC

Cloud IT Services

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To apply visit absne.com

401-681-4900 teamksa.com/careers

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| 35

SMALL COMPANIES

WORK★RI

DINNER TIME: Employees at DarrowEverett LLP gather for a company dinner.

COURTESY DARROWEVERETT LLP

4

What three words best describe your staff? Innovative, passionate,

loyal.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? Casual

dress workdays when not meeting with clients or public officials or appearing in court or before another administrative body. Movie/music trivia contests. Employee appreciation events, including fun runs, sports nights, birthday dinners, or even an overnight at Foxwoods. We also created DE Playlists for everyone to enjoy both at work and outside of work (team members submit their favorite songs and work playlists are compiled and hosted on Apple Music or Spotify).

DarrowEverett LLP EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 39 CHAIRMAN

ZACHARY DARROW

Questions answered by:

ZACHARY DARROW

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? Whenever we have the opportunity, we promote from

within. We often have people join our firm either as interns, new graduates or in other junior-level positions. Our goal is to have team members with less experience grow with us, become substantial contributors to the firm and its clients, and have DE serve as a rewarding and long-term career path for them. n

BESTPLACES TO ★

FEEDING THE NEEDY: Compass IT Compliance LLC employees donate food to the Blackstone Valley Emergency Food Center.

COURTESY COMPASS IT COMPLIANCE LLC

5

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We listen

to our employees and employ suggestions to foster team building and working relationships. As a company, we have taken our company to dinners, sports events, a casino, golf outings, and indoor racing and axe throwing, to name a few.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Our workplace is fun, supportive,

open-minded and adaptable, and one that supports personal and professional growth working toward a common goal.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? We

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 23 MANAGING PARTNERS

WILLIAM DEPALMA and JERRY HUGHES Questions answered by:

JERRY HUGHES

What role does diversity and inclusion play in your hiring and promotion decisions? We employ talented men and women with diverse backgrounds and cultures, with a significant emphasis on veterans. We are proud that nearly 50% of our employees are veterans from the U.S. Coast Guard, Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines. n

NL PURE ONE WITH NATURE

AWARDS

Barrington | Charlestown | East Greenwich Narragansett | Providence | Watch Hill | Westport, MA mottandchace.com

Compass IT Compliance LLC

have shifted from sick and vacation time to paid time off. We have an employee assistance program, and support work-from-home flexibility.

2022

Each office is independently owned and operated.

2022

SEE THE UNSEEN

WWW.SWAROVSKIOPTIK.COM

36 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

SMALL COMPANIES

WORK★RI

2022

FITNESS TEST: South County Smiles team members attend the Maddie Potts Foundation Annual Fitness Challenge at Ninigret Park in Charlestown.

FEELING FESTIVE: The Province Mortgage Associates Inc. team poses near gift bags to be delivered as part of the company’s “Smiles to Seniors” holiday initiative.

COURTESY SOUTH COUNTY SMILES

COURTESY PROVINCE MORTGAGE ASSOCIATES INC.

6

7

What three words best describe your staff? Hardworking, adaptable,

­­­collaborative.

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? We have

deliberately overstaffed every department, allowing us flexibility to deal with the unpredictable day to day. We put a leadership team in place that gives us a group of highly trained individuals that can support our team whenever there are challenges.

We have increased sick time, mental health days, compensation and retention bonuses.

South County Smiles EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 31 OWNER

DR. JOSEPH DISANO

Questions answered by:

DR. JOSEPH DISANO

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Our culture is the most important thing to us. We have hand-

selected this team that lives out our core values day to day. The culture is positive, energetic, fun and infectious to all those around us. Our core values are open and honest communication; put the team first and elevate others; continuous growth and learning; be humble, confident and make it fun; extreme ownership: say it, do it; deliver a wow experience. n

GIFT GIVING: RIKB Design Build team members raise donations for Toys for Tots of Rhode Island during the holiday season.

COURTESY RIKB DESIGN BUILD

8

What three words best describe your staff?

Smart, dedicated, thoughtful.

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemicrelated challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? We remain flexible for

[work from home] and [paid time off] time as needed.

We have converted to full PTO time for all staff and added additional days for family time such as the day after Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We have company

socials on our patio with cornhole, golf outings and clambakes.

RIKB Design Build

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 33 OWNER AND PRESIDENT

TANYA DONAHUE

Questions answered by:

TANYA DONAHUE

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? We supply fresh fruit, yogurts, and healthy snacks in our

staff lunchroom. Some staff participate in a lunch time walking club.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? We love promoting from within. We have had great suc-

cess promoting into our leadership program because they already know the tone we want to represent and have the systems down already and can give them the autonomy to improve and streamline our process. n

What three words best describe your staff? Dedicated, excellence, family.

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? With

the challenges of COVID-19, we put systems into place that give our staff the ability to work from home whenever needed to keep people safe.

We also launched our Province Mortgage Mobile App to keep our clients and network partners safe while giving them the tools needed to execute the entire mortgage process from their phones.

How do you support community service work by your employees? Part of our mission

Province Mortgage Associates Inc. EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 49 PRESIDENT

DAVID CURRIE

Questions answered by:

MARKETING DIRECTOR has always been to give back to the communities DON WILSON that we serve, working with and donating to a variety of nonprofits on a yearly basis, including our own charitable events. For the 2021 holiday season, our entire staff in three different states brought “Smiles to Seniors” by purchasing and donating more than 200 gifts for seniors in nursing homes who would otherwise have nothing. n

WELCOME HOME: Employees with KSA Marketing & Partnerships LLC gather in the agency’s new office in Warwick.

COURTESY KSA MARKETING & PARTNERSHIPS LLC

9

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemicrelated challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? Throughout the pandemic … we

have been proactive by monitoring individual well-being and overall team morale on a weekly basis. If an individual is struggling, the leadership team works together to connect with them personally and develop a plan to KSA provide support.

Marketing

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? Our most recent

event included a team-building activity run by an outside facilitator, paired with an office happy hour.

Even through the pandemic, we held remote events, including virtual escape rooms, trivia nights, quarterly birthday celebrations, and we even shipped boxes out to employees for a virtual salsa tasting.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? We’re a bold group of thinkers with

different opinions [who] share, discuss and debate.

It’s all part of our curious ways and diverse backgrounds. n

& Partnerships LLC

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 18 FOUNDER

KATIE SCHIBLER CONN

Questions answered by:

KATIE SCHIBLER CONN PARTNER

DAVID BRADLEY

www.pbn.com | BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | JUNE 2022

| 37

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SMALL COMPANIES

WORK★RI

2022

PATRIOTS PRIDE: Employees at Secure Future Tech Solutions wear New England Patriots attire as part of the company’s Patriots Spirit Day.

SPARKING IMAGINATION: Rhode Island Foundation Grant Programs Officer Ricky Bogert talks with students at an elementary school in Providence.

COURTESY SECURE FUTURE TECH SOLUTIONS

COURTESY RHODE ISLAND FOUNDATION

10

11

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? We now offer a flexible hybrid work

environment. We’ve also brought in college interns to assist with the workload and in hopes of grooming for future full-time hire.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We have in-

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness?

Secure Future Tech Solutions CEO AND PRESIDENT

ERIC M. SHORR

Questions answered by: VICE PRESIDENT

LISA SHORR

We are flexible when our employees need personal wellness time. We also provided personal protective equipment and home COVID-19 tests.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? We give opportunities for growth at Secure Future Tech

by hiring at the intern level and promoting from within. This has given several of our employees an opportunity for personal and professional growth. n

PASTA POWER: Technology Advisory Group LLC employees work on a project in which they construct a tower made of spaghetti.

COURTESY TECHNOLOGY ADVISORY GROUP LLC

12

pandemic waned and we began returning to the office, employees are being invited to get together for Taco Tuesdays, brunch, ice cream socials and similar activities as we get to know each other face to face again.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? Promoting from within enables us to

Rhode Island Foundation EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 49 CEO AND PRESIDENT

NEIL D. STEINBERG

Questions answered by:

NEIL D. STEINBERG

reward good performance and to capitalize on existing institutional knowledge, and buy-in on our mission. We can’t always do it, but the advantages have value to us. We also like to bring in new talent with new ideas when possible.

What was a new employee benefit(s) or initiative(s) in the past 12 months? We enhanced our Parental Leave Policy giving team members access to additional fully paid time off following the birth or adoption of a child. n

FLYING HIGH: Automated Business Solutions Inc. gather at Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport in Warwick to participate in a Jet Pull event to support multiple sclerosis awareness.

COURTESY AUTOMATED BUSINESS SOLUTIONS INC.

13

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness? During the various out-

breaks over the last couple of years, we prioritized everyone’s safety by working remotely as much as possible. We enrolled as a testing center to be sure that we weren’t getting each other sick. Additionally, we changed from a fully in-person office to a hybrid workplace where employees can opt to work remotely for up to four days a week.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why?

We always try and promote from within. We give employees opportunities to continually grow and build on their skill set and take on leadership roles.

What was a new employee benefit(s) or initiative(s) in the past 12 months? To be-

team oriented.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? As the

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 19

office shuffleboard and foosball tables. We hired Let’sRoam.com to host online team-building trivia games. We also had delicious potluck lunches.

What three words best describe your staff? Dedicated, passionate,

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? Our company developed programs

Technology Advisory Group LLC

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 16 PRESIDENT AND OWNER

GARY HARLAM

Questions answered by:

GARY HARLAM

come a more flexible workplace, we’ve added a flex time component in which an employee can take a few hours away from work without losing their paid time off. n

to remain fully open during the pandemic. One specific example of how we created value during the pandemic was through the creation of “work from home” solutions.

Automated Business Solutions Inc.

pany picnic, holiday parties, trips for high-level performers, cookouts, a Zumba in the parking lot and poker nights.

MICHAEL ARDRY

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We hold a com-

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Teamwork makes the dream work.

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 36 PRESIDENT

Questions answered by: VICE PRESIDENT OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

DAVID AULISIO

It’s our staff that makes the business run and we keep it fun.

How do you support community service work by your employees? ABS financially supports initiatives that are personally important to employees.

We contribute often and volunteer time for causes such as MADD, At Risk Youth, dyslexia and multiple sclerosis. n

www.pbn.com | BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | JUNE 2022

| 39

SMALL COMPANIES

WORK★RI

AT THE TOP: Mott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty agents recently gather for a Top Agents Luncheon.

BRIDGE WORK: Members of IT Support RI’s management team gather on a bridge during a recent trip to Boston.

COURTESY MOTT & CHACE SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

COURTESY IT SUPPORT RI

14

15

What three words best describe your staff? Highly successful, dedicated, inno-

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemic-related challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? The pandemic necessitated a quick

vative professionals.

How has your company adapted programs and services in response to evolving pandemicrelated challenges such as staff burnout and workforce shortages? Flexible work schedules

with the ability to work remotely. Supportive and collaborative managers and colleagues who are cross-trained and can assist.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Commitment to teamwork, innovation

and personal growth and success.

How do you support community service work by your employees? We support those charities

that our agents are involved in through sponsorships, donations and marketing.

Mott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 17 BROKER AND OWNER

JUDY CHACE

Questions answered by:

JUDY CHACE

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? We prefer to promote from

within since providing career paths for our staff is in alignment with our core values. We want to empower our staff to be the best they can be. n

transition to seeing most of our workforce work from home. We’ve also transitioned to many cloudbased services to better support our employees and clients alike. It allows both parties to have the flexibility to work from home, the office, an airport café, or wherever else they may end up.

2022

IT Support RI EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 17 CEO

PAUL RIENDEAU Questions answered by:

PAUL RIENDEAU

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We host quarterly employee outings that we encourage everyone to join

in on. We get up to all kinds of things – we’ve had a fun day out on the lake, a trip to Six Flags, and even a Roarin’ 20s themed speakeasy outing. We also host some really fun Christmas and Halloween costume parties at our office that everyone loves to get involved in.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? We are a compassionate, welcoming group of individuals that enjoy the daily challenges that the [information technology] industry brings to us. We encourage employees of any standing to share their ideas, and in doing so, we become better as a whole. n

Personalized Insurance Solutions

ENJOYING NEWPORT: The Brokers’ Service Marketing Group II LLC team gathers at its annual corporate meeting in Newport.

COURTESY BROKERS’ SERVICE MARKETING GROUP II LLC

16

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? When COVID-19 restrictions

lifted in 2021, we organized a companywide event at R1 Indoor Karting Inc. for go-kart racing, axe throwing and lunch together. For Memorial Day, we are closing the office early and organizing a company cookout in the office parking lot.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness?

Brokers’ Service Marketing Group II LLC EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 42 CEO

JASON LEA

Questions answered by:

We made our kitchen more modernized and HUMAN RESOURCES GENERALIST larger to allow employees to sit at the table or NICOLE SUPINSKI counters and converse or watch TV together while on lunch. We cater bagels and juices for breakfast and have a fridge full of free sodas for staff. We close early some Fridays before holidays for staff to get more out of their three-day weekends.

Rest Insured.

We have you covered.

How do you support community service work by your employees?

Every year BSMG holds a company charity event and the proceeds from the event go toward a meal-packing event that all staff and their friends and families participate in to pack meals for the homeless. This year, the meals will be going to families in the Ukraine. n

40 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

SMALL COMPANIES

WORK★RI

GIVING BACK: Duffy & Sweeney Ltd. employees volunteer at an event at Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence.

HOCKEY NIGHT: Employees from Connectivity Point Design & Installation LLC take in a Providence Bruins game at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center.

COURTESY DUFFY & SWEENEY LTD.

COURTESY CONNECTIVITY POINT DESIGN & INSTALLATION LLC

17

What three words best describe your staff? Professional, passion-

ate, ­­dedicated.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We of-

fer our employees summer outings, Wellness Week, holiday-themed games, and lunches.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Our culture fosters a work-

life blend and affords our employees the opportunity to take ownership of their work while growing and developing their professional skills in a supportive, mentoring environment.

How do you support community service work by your employees? We encourage

Duffy & Sweeney Ltd. EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 21 PRESIDENT

MICHAEL F. SWEENEY

Questions answered by: DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE

GERALD DEMARIA II

our employees to become active in the community, following their individual passions for public service and engaging in business-building pursuits with colleagues from the firm.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? We always prefer to promote from within if the circum-

stances support it. n

18

2022

What three words best describe your staff? Knowledgeable, dedi-

cated and professional.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We offer

quarterly gatherings with food and prizes for all of our employees at a different location every quarter. We also take our employees and their families to sporting events.

What modifications have you made to your workplace to support employee wellness?

We offer an incredibly flexible work schedule for employees to have time to do what they need to do to be healthy and productive. We also contribute toward the cost of a gym membership.

How do you support community service work by your employees? We allow our employees to

Connectivity Point Design & Installation LLC EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 23

OWNER AND PRESIDENT

DOUG WATT

Questions answered by: TALENT AND RECRUITMENT MANAGER

TANYA ESTES

take time off during their workday to participate in community service. While doing community service, the employees earn tickets toward prizes. n

DarrowEverett LLP is proud to once again be named a winner of PBN’s Best Places to Work Awards.

We want to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation for our innovative, passionate, and dedicated employees, without whom we would not be able to achieve this honor.

Congratulations to all of our fellow winners!

www.darroweverett.com MASSACHUSETTES RHODE ISLAND NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA SOUTH CAROLINA FLORIDA www.pbn.com | BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | JUNE 2022

| 41

SMALL COMPANIES

WORK★RI

INTO CHARACTER: Carey, Richmond & Viking Insurance employees dress up for Halloween at its Middletown office.

GARDEN PARTY: Staffers at the Rhode Island Quality Institute gather together in a local garden.

COURTESY CAREY, RICHMOND & VIKING INSURANCE

COURTESY RHODE ISLAND QUALITY INSTITUTE

19

20

What three words best describe your staff?

Caring, conscientious and dedicated.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Our culture is defined by a deep caring

and respect for our clients, employees and community.

How do you support community service work by your employees? We support the effort and recog-

nize employees who bring leadership to community service organizations through their volunteer efforts.

Full-time employees have paid community service time off to work on projects that benefit the community. Our employee-run Charitable Giving Committee actively seeks out causes to support financially and with volunteerism.

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? When

Carey, Richmond & Viking Insurance

EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 46 PRESIDENT

V. DAVID ANDRADE

Questions answered by: we can, our preference is to promote from within to V. DAVID ANDRADE continue to invest in their growth as an employee.

We are excited to recognize their loyalty and efforts but recognize that there are benefits to hiring from the outside, such as exposure to new approaches, new ideas and a fresh perspective. n

2022

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? We coordinate an event each month

either virtually or in person to ensure that we stay connected on a personal level and step away from our work for a bit. For example, we recently participated in a Save The Bay event to clean up the shoreline for Earth Day and hosted a garden gathering at our office to sit in the sun and have some coffee, tea and great conversation.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? Our culture is collaborative, engaging

and supportive. We value everyone’s contributions and encourage each other to share their thoughts and ideas while embracing our differences.

Rhode Island Quality Institute EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 32 CEO AND PRESIDENT

INDRA NEIL SARKAR

Questions answered by:

INDRA NEIL SARKAR

What was a new employee benefit(s) or initiative(s) in the past 12 months? We introduced a new talent opti-

mization tool in support of our goal to provide an engaging work experience.

Using these tools, we are increasing self-awareness, strengthening team dynamics and enhancing relationships with each other. We also integrated these principles into our recruitment process to help identify the right talent while ensuring alignment with the position and our culture. n

Marcum LLP is grateful to have been named a

2022 Best Place to Work in Rhode Island.

BIG SPREAD: Envision Technology Advisors LLC employees gather for a recent company picnic.

549c

COURTESY ENVISION TECHNOLOGY ADVISORS LLC

21

What three words best describe your staff? Innovative, caring, creative.

What fun activities does your company offer employees to participate in? Envi-

sion regularly hosts quarterly staff events such as group lunches and challenges that have included: inflatable-axe throwing; cupcake decorating; paper airplane construction and flying; popsicle-stick bridge building and demolition; Nerf Wars; and trivia. We also host an annual summer outing that has ranged in variety from staff and family trips to Six Flags and Block Island to renting out the occasional drive-in movie theater.

How would you describe the culture of your workplace? We focus on our core values, which

550C

Envision Technology Adviso rs, LLC

Envision Technology Advisors LLC EMPLOYEES IN R.I.: 43 CEO

TODD KNAPP

Questions answered by:

TODD KNAPP

are to have fun, be the best at what we do and make a positive impact on our staff, clients and community.

marcumllp.com

Do you have a preference for promoting existing staff or hiring from outside and why? Envision prefers to promote from within our organiza-

tion. We hire for attitude and aptitude and focus on creating an environment for employees to grow their technical skills. n

42 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

Sick days for ill-dependent

New policies responding to COVID-19

Diversity training

401(k)/retirement plan

Bonus or incentive programs

Telecommuting options

Tuition reimbursement offered

Stress and wellness programs

Workplace fitness facilities

Support community service initiatives

Career-development programs

10

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13

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34%

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10

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24%

66%

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12

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23

4%

17%

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11

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Health care

31

23%

84%

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6

David Currie

Residential mortgage lender

49

15%

71%

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RIKB Design Build

Tanya Donahue; Michael Donahue

Residential design contractor

33

0%

61%

KSA Marketing & Partnerships LLC

Katie Schibler Conn; David Bradley

Advertising agency

18

7%

Secure Future Tech Solutions

Eric M. Shorr; Lisa A. Shorr

Information technology services

19

Rhode Island Foundation

Neil D. Steinberg

Nonprofit funder

12

Technology Advisory Group LLC

Gary Harlam

13

Automated Business Solutions Inc.

14

Company name

Person in charge

Type of business

No. of local employees

% of voluntary turnover

% of women employees

(based on companies with 15-49 regional employees)

1

Brave River Solutions Inc.

Jim McAssey; Vincent DiPippo

Technology

30

17%

30%

2

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island

Katje Afonseca

Nonprofit

36

16%

66%

3

AVTECH Software Inc.

Michael Sigourney; Richard Grundy

Manufacturer

29

3%

4

DarrowEverett LLP

Zachary Darrow; Joshua Berlinsky

Legal

29

5

Compass IT Compliance LLC

Jerry Hughes; William DePalma

Information technology services

6

South County Smiles

Dr. Joseph DiSano

7

Province Mortgage Associates Inc.

8 9

2022 rank

Flexible work hours

Holidays per year

BEST PLACES TO WORK - SMALL COMPANIES (based on companies with 15-49 regional employees) BEST PLACES TO WORK - SMALL COMPANIES

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7

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9

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55%

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12

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50%

33%

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9

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49

10%

65%

12

✔

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Technology services

16

0%

13%

10

Michael Ardry

Office equipment sales and service

36

8%

39%

7

✔

Mott & Chace Sotheby's International Realty

Raymond Mott; Judy Chace

Residential real estate brokerage

17

0%

88%

13

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✔

15

IT Support RI

Nick Bernfeld; Paul Riendeau

Information technology services

17

4%

6%

6

✔

✔

16

Brokers' Service Marketing Group II LLC

Jason Lea

Insurance

42

3%

48%

10

✔

✔

17

Duffy & Sweeney Ltd.

Michael F. Sweeney; Robert Duffy

Law firm

21

13%

71%

11

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18

Connectivity Point Design & Installation LLC

Doug Watt

Telecommunications

23

0%

9%

11

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19

Carey, Richmond & Viking Insurance

V. David Andrade

Insurance agency

46

17%

72%

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Rhode Island Quality Institute

Indra Neil Sarkar

Nonprofit

32

19%

66%

✔

13

Envision Technology Advisors LLC

Todd Knapp

Business and information technology consulting

43

11%

26%

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10

10 11

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www.pbn.com | BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | JUNE 2022

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| 43

CONGRATULATIONS! TO ALL THE HONOREES OF THE

2022 BEST PLACES TO WORK BEQUEST MANAGEMENT ERISA & INSURANCE LITIGATION VETERANS LAW

cck-law.com 44 | JUNE 2022 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARDS | www.pbn.com

401-331-6300