Chicago, Illinois based Mesirow, an independent, employee-owned financial services firm, has announced the appointment of Natalie A. Brown as CEO following a unanimous vote by the firm’s Board of Directors. Brown becomes the 6th CEO of Mesirow in its 85-year history and the first woman to serve in this role.
As part of this succession plan, Richard S. Price transitions from Chairman and CEO to the role of Executive Chairman. Over the course of 50 years with Mesirow, Richard has been a key driver of the firm’s vision and success, serving in prior years as President and Chief Operating Officer and President of Insurance Services. He has been a member of the Mesirow Board of Directors since its inception in 1987 and, as Executive Chairman, will remain actively involved in organizational strategy, civic and community engagement, and the firm’s focus on diversity, equity and inclusion.
“Natalie’s track record, depth of experience and excitement about the future make her the ideal leader to guide the firm’s continued growth while sustaining our prized culture,” said Price. “I look forward to continuing to partner with Natalie and the Board on our corporate strategy.”
Brown joined Mesirow in 2018, most recently serving as the firm’s President. Prior, she was Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administrative Officer. In recent years, Brown has advised the firm’s Board of Directors and businesses on financial, operational, and organizational strategy, playing a pivotal role in recent lift-in acquisitions, key senior hires and technological innovation.