Grant Thornton Named a ‘Best Place to Work’ in Chicago – Leopardo-built Offices Cited as Contributing Factor

Crain’s Chicago Business named Leopardo-client Grant Thornton to its 2016 list of Best Places to Work. Grant Thornton, the fifth largest accounting network in the world, recently completed a renovation at its Chicago-based North American headquarters.

Crain’s attributes the office renovation, built by Leopardo and designed by architecture firm VOA, as a major contributor to Grant Thornton’s inclusion on this year’s list.

“Grant Thornton’s move to new offices in October ushered in several improvements: better technology; advanced videoconferencing capabilities in meeting rooms; a relaxed dress code; and rooms for collaboration, like the Starbucks-inspired space with a fireplace, easy chairs and an espresso machine,” writes Crain’s.

Leopardo renovated five floors over two phases at the 161 N. Clark St. headquarters. The renovation aimed to better serve Grant Thornton’s more than 800 local employees, while helping attract and retain talent.

“It’s a noticeable difference when you walk through the office,” Vince Tomkinson, Midwest managing partner, told Crain’s. “People are gathering and working together in ways we weren’t able to in our old offices.”