William Blair

William Blair is a global, independent, and employee-owned financial services firm specializing in investment banking, investment management, and private wealth management. Established in 1935 by William McCormick Blair, the firm has grown to operate in over 20 offices across four continents.

These include major cities such as Chicago, New York, London, Frankfurt, and Shanghai, offering a broad international presence to serve diverse client needs.

Investment Banking

William Blair's investment banking division offers a comprehensive suite of services. These include mergers and acquisitions (M&A) advisory, capital raising, and strategic consulting.

The firm has a strong track record in M&A transactions, having completed over $542 billion in deals for clients in more than 30 countries since September 2019. Their expertise spans various industries, providing tailored solutions to meet growth, liquidity, and financing objectives.

Investment Management

The investment management arm focuses on delivering innovative investment strategies across multiple asset classes. These include equities, fixed income, and alternative investments.

With a research-driven approach, William Blair aims to generate superior risk-adjusted returns for institutional and individual investors. Their research group covers approximately 650 companies, providing in-depth analysis to inform investment decisions.

Private Wealth Management

William Blair's private wealth management services are designed to help high-net-worth individuals and families achieve their financial goals.

They offer personalized financial planning, investment management, and estate planning services emphasizing a holistic approach tailored to each client's unique circumstances and long-term objectives.

Global Presence

Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, William Blair has expanded its global footprint with offices in:

• Amsterdam
• Atlanta
• Baltimore
• Berwyn, IL, USA
• Boston
• Charlotte
• Denver
• Frankfurt
• London
• Los Angeles
• Madrid
• New York
• Philadelphia
• San Francisco
• Shanghai
• Singapore
• Stamford
• Stockholm
• Sydney
• The Hague
• Zurich

This extensive network enables the firm to provide localized expertise while leveraging global resources to serve clients effectively.

Commitment to Excellence

William Blair is consistently recognized as a top workplace in the financial services industry. In 2024, it was named a Top Workplace by the Chicago Tribune and USA Today.

The firm’s deals have been recognized at Mergers & Acquisitions’ annual Middle Market Deal of the Year Awards. It has also earned a perfect score on the Corporate Equality Index, which evaluates corporate policies related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality.

As of March 31, 2017, William Blair reported assets of $84 billion and employed approximately 1,500 individuals globally, with 1,200 based in Chicago.

The firm's commitment to client success, combined with its collaborative culture and global reach, positions William Blair as a leading financial services provider dedicated to delivering exceptional value to clients.