How the Firm Expanded Its People, Place, and Practice
August 15, 2013
Growth doesn’t happen overnight; it’s often the result of careful planning and preparation. Such was the case when Abdo, Eick & Meyers merged with Jelinek Metz McDonald in November of 2010. The merger helped to build the firm’s Twin Cities business practice while serving as the impetus for an office expansion.
Jelinek Metz McDonald (JMM) was a small- to medium-sized firm that focused on closely held businesses and nonprofits. When Abdo, Eick & Meyers Managing Partner Steve McDonald first met with Judd Nordquist, JMM’s managing partner, he realized the two firms had a great deal in common. “We really connected on the areas of culture, goals, and growth,” explains Steve. “We knew they would be a good fit.”
To prepare for the merger and create much-needed space, Abdo, Eick & Meyers embarked upon an ambitious expansion of its Twin Cities office. “We were quickly outgrowing our current space,” recalls Steve. “And especially with the upcoming merger.”
The expansion involved the build-out of the firm’s second-floor office space, along with the addition of an in-house training facility. Steve says the training facility was the most important part of the expansion. “It backed up our commitment to provide a supportive learning environment,” he says.
In addition to space, the build-out brought in new technologies such as videoconferencing. “Having the ability to video conference has helped to bring our firm together,” says Steve. “Plus, it’s saved many meetings that would otherwise have been canceled due to winter weather or full calendars.”
The build-out took two months and was a collaborative effort between the firm and its expansion team, which included commercial leasing expert, Dave Anderson; office space planning from Kris Root of Fluid Interiors; and architect, Rick Lundin. Firm Administrator Ann Berens managed the project planning, which centered on creating a welcoming, energizing environment for staff and clients. The expansion was complete when JMM moved in on November 1, 2010.
“We were incredibly happy with how the expansion came together,” says Steve.