Shive-Hattery was recently recognized by the Corridor Business Journal as one of the largest privately held companies in the Eastern Iowa Corridor.
Each year, this list evolves as companies are acquired or backed by private equity firms. The trend toward consolidation continues across many industries, and people ask me:
Why does Shive-Hattery remain a privately held company?
The answer is both practical and deeply personal. It is rooted in our belief that the best work happens when the people doing the work have a real stake in the outcome.
As employees of Shive-Hattery, we chart the direction of the company. This freedom allows our people to pursue their passions and serve clients they choose to pursue.
Clients tell us they value the responsiveness, service, and care they receive from our employees who can make decisions and invest in client relationships.
Community leaders recognize our commitment to investing in the places we live and work—decisions we’re empowered to make because we remain independent.
Here are five reasons why staying privately held continues to be the right choice for Shive-Hattery:
1. Shared Ownership
Shared ownership at Shive-Hattery means the freedom to make decisions, build relationships, and grow personally and professionally. You choose your career path, experience diverse design opportunities, and blend your work and life in a way that works for you.
2. Shared Spirit
Shive-Hattery values an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for building communities. Employees generously share their time, talent, and knowledge to create a community-driven workplace. Together, we serve our clients and communities to make the world a better place.
“The work environment is collaborative and supportive, and I’ve appreciated how approachable and helpful everyone has been. There’s a strong emphasis on both professional development and team culture, which has made it easier to learn and grow. I also enjoy the variety of projects and the opportunity to be involved in meaningful work early on. I’m also very excited to continue learning new things and gaining experience on different types of projects. Overall, it feels like a place where people genuinely care about what they do and about each other.”
— Gozde Topakkaya, Design Professional, Structural | Shive-Hattery
3. Shared Understanding
Our open-door policy means you can approach anyone, from the president to the chief operating officer to the manager, group/team leader, senior, or peer. Our commitment is to listen and respond to you. Employees own and shape our future with hard work, transparency, and trust across the firm.
4. Shared Impact
Greater freedom leads to proactive problem-solving and client-focused innovation. Creativity flourishes as long-term sustainability guides decisions over short-term profits. Integrity builds reciprocal client relationships, resulting in stronger partnerships that solve the toughest problems.
5. Shared Rewards
As a privately held company, Shive-Hattery can invest heavily in its employees. This means competitive pay, profit sharing, 401 (k) matching and performance-driven bonuses. Shive-Hattery’s investment in employees fosters a resilient, purpose-driven company where all share success.
Remaining privately held is a choice that aligns with who we are. Independence allows us to lead with our values, serve clients as partners and build a legacy that will be decided by our employees today and into the future.
Thank you to the CBJ for this recognition, and thank you to every employee who makes Shive-Hattery a truly exceptional place to build relationship and make a difference.
