Strong, diverse boards help banks succeed
Much has been written about the challenges facing today's community bankers, including ongoing asset quality issues, shifting capital requirements, cutthroat competition for customers, rapid developments in technology, and an endless onslaught of new rules and regulations. Notwithstanding these challenges, many banks have “turned the corner” and see opportunity on the horizon. What distinguishes the banks that are improving (and perhaps even excelling) from those that continue to struggle? In many instances, we believe the difference can be traced to the boardroom. This article summarizes common characteristics we have observed from those banks that are thriving, partially as a result of their board's involvement, guidance and strategic direction.
Blackthorne acquires Oak Creek IT company
Mequon-based private equity firm Blackthorne Partners Ltd. recently acquired Oak Creek-based network support provider Group Basis LLC and plans to double the company's size in the next two years.
On the hot seat at work
When Dean Mouradian strolled into his office one cold December day two years ago and noticed his office manager struggling to stay warm with a sweater and space heater, he set out to find a better way to help her warm up.
‘Trust nothing, verify everything’
It seems there is no way to put a stake in the issue of trust vs. verification. Caterpillar Inc.'s recent $580 million writedown on a Chinese company it acquired in June for $700 million is an example of the principle.
Prepare for the financial sandwich
Per our friends at Wikipedia, "The Sandwich Generation" is a generation of people who care for their aging parents...
BizTimes expands editorial staff
BizTimes Media LLC is expanding its award-winning editorial team by adding Daniel Shafer as a reporter.
- Advertisement -
From the mat to the classroom
After capturing a second-degree black belt in tae kwon do and both national and world titles in the Filipino martial arts form kali arnis, Dr. Shannon Duval empowers her students with the same strength she has relied on in empowering herself.
Socialize your site, and the visitors will come
For those businesses focused on maximizing the effectiveness of their website, gone are the days of simply considering search engine optimization (SEO) and online ads. An increasing number of smart organizations are recognizing that by applying lessons learned from social to their website, they stand to improve traffic and, ultimately, its effectiveness.
Kettle Moraine Hardwoods branches out
Hartford-based Kettle Moraine Hardwoods Inc. dries logs and cuts them down for cabinetmakers, furniture makers, contractors and hobbyists.
Salvation Army exceeds Red Kettle Campaign goal
The Salvation Army of Milwaukee County has surpassed its annual Red Kettle Campaign goal of $3 million, receiving generous donations totaling $3.7 million.