Viewpoints

David Urban, former director of investor relations at Johnson Controls Inc., has launched his own investor relations consulting firm, Strategic IR Advisors LLC.

Milwaukee-based Baird Financial Group has closed on its acquisition of Seattle investment firm McAdams Wright Ragen Inc. The company is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Baird Financial Group, the holding company of Robert W. Baird & Co. Inc.

Waukesha State Bank has hired Rob Kurudza as bank manager for its Muskego office.

All employees, including the managers, at Waukesha-based InvestorsBank will retain their positions following the acquisition of the bank by Fond du Lac-based American Bank.

As Milwaukee's chief executive, Mayor Tom Barrett has made it a priority to ensure that small businesses receive the tools they need to prosper and grow. Small businesses are undoubtedly a central force in our economy's ability to thrive. However, finding resources important to achieving success can be a challenge with the many obstacles that often arise in today's economic climate.

Every salesperson is looking for the fastest way, the best way, and the easiest way to “close” a sale.

Tom Cardella, president and beer merchant at MillerCoors' craft arm, Tenth and Blake Beer Co., plans to retire at the end of the year.

Quinpario Acquisition Corp. has completed its acquisition of Milwaukee-based Jason Inc. The company has changed its name to Jason Industries Inc. and will retain its Milwaukee headquarters.

East Troy-based motorcycle manufacturer Erik Buell Racing has introduced its newest model, the EBR 1190SX.

Cudahy-based Roadrunner Transportation Systems Inc. has named presidents for each of its three businesses.