Mesirow, an independent, employee-owned financial services firm, announced a strategic growth plan that will transform the firm's platform and presence in Florida and over time across the Southeast. The firm will build upon its growing and successful offices in Miami and Boca Raton, including raising awareness of the Mesirow brand; expand the number of Mesirow professionals in this market; and increase its commitment to philanthropy and connectivity with the local business community throughout Florida.
The growth initiative will be led by George Barbar, Senior Managing Director, who has been with the firm since 2010 and made vital contributions to the firm's Institutional Sales and Trading and other Mesirow business units while leveraging his deep relationships with civic and business leaders.
Over the next 2-3 years, the firm plans to grow its headcount, with an initial focus on Capital Markets, Wealth Management and Investment Advisory services, including corporate and governmental clients, while also expanding its presence along the west coast of Florida. Over the intermediate to longer-term, the goal is to grow across the greater Southeast region, opening offices in locations to best serve clients and expand organically and through opportunistic, complementary lift-ins and bolt-on acquisitions.
"The economic prospects and attractive demographics of Florida and the Southeast over the next decade make the region an ideal location to strategically expand our presence," said Richard S. Price, Chairman and CEO. "We believe that our financial strength, diverse and differentiated capabilities, and ability to respond swiftly to fluid market dynamics will drive success for our clients across the region."
"We believe the independent ownership structure and entrepreneurial culture of Mesirow make the firm an ideal fit for finance professionals looking to accelerate their career and make a difference in the communities in which they operate," said Natalie A. Brown, President of Mesirow. "We are confident that under George Barbar's leadership, our expansion plan in the Southeast region will achieve tangible, measured success over the coming years. George has a track record of building successful businesses and his values deeply align with our corporation."
Following one of the most successful fiscal years in Mesirow's 84-year history, the firm is well capitalized for future growth and looks forward to making the necessary strategic investments to serve an increasing number of clients in Florida and throughout the Southeast.