Honored
Leader: Mellody Hobson, President
Company Name: Ariel Capital Management, LLC
Location: Chicago, Ill.
Nature of Business: Investment management/mutual funds
Founded: 1983
Revenue: $125.6 million
Growth Rate (2005): 19 percent
Number of Employees: 97
Average Tenure: 4.5 years
Ariel Capital Management is an investment management and mutual fund firm specializing in small- and mid-capitalization U.S. equities. The firm was founded in 1983 and has grown from two to 100 employees with over $16 billion in assets under management. Hobson started at the firm as an intern from Princeton University in 1991 and has become the "North Star" for all at Ariel – employees say her dedication, passion and drive set an example so bright that it is impossible to not want to follow her lead. One of the key aspects of her job is to make sure the unique culture and vision of the organization are understood and articulated. Ariel is centered on the key tenets of patience, hard work, focus and discipline. The "slow and steady" approach is part of the investment strategy as well as the methodical approach to training, communication and continuous learning. At Ariel, everyone shares in the rewards and responsibilities of ownership of the firm through restricted equity awards and equity purchase programs.