September 9, 2024: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Bookminders has achieved an extraordinary milestone, securing 1st place in the small company category of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s 2024 Top Workplaces awards.
This landmark achievement underscores the company’s foundational commitment to creating an outstanding workplace. In addition to the company’s top placement, CEO Jessica Minkus has been awarded the prestigious Leadership Award for the second time in three years, further solidifying her reputation as a leading force in Pittsburgh’s business community.
The Top Workplaces awards are especially significant as they are based entirely on employee ranking and feedback, gathered through a third-party survey conducted by employee engagement technology partner Energage LLC. The confidential and anonymous survey measures critical aspects of the employee experience, including respect, support, empowerment, and growth—all of which are essential for organizational success.
Celebrating the #1 Achievement
For three consecutive years, Bookminders has ranked among the top workplaces, but this year’s #1 placement is a true testament to the company’s dedication to excellence. Employees across the organization have expressed their pride and excitement at reaching the top spot.
“We’ve always known Bookminders is exceptional, but being named #1 really makes that visible to anyone who hasn’t partnered with us,” said Mary Susan Anderson, Director of Operations. “This recognition further highlights the incredible culture we’ve built together and continue to nurture, one in which everyone’s contributions are valued and supported.”
Client Relations Manager Anne Marie Wiegmann notes, “Earning the top spot tonight is an incredible feeling for all of us. It shows that our focus on work-life balance, teamwork, and innovation is felt and appreciated by the entire staff.”
Reflecting on this year’s top ranking, Jessica Minkus, CEO of Bookminders, remarked, “Our success is deeply rooted in the incredible culture we’ve cultivated here at Bookminders. This recognition is a celebration of the trust we’ve built, the relationships we’ve nurtured, and the impact we’ve made not only for employees but also with our clients and partners.”
A Culture of Support and Collaboration
Bookminders’ culture is built on a foundation of respect, flexibility, and support. This focus on a positive work environment is consistently reflected in the company’s performance across all culture drivers measured by the survey. Bookminders earned every culture badge available and ranked in the top 1% across key factors like employee appreciation, meaningful work, and strong values.
Jennifer Krebs, Senior Accountant and Project Manager, shared her thoughts on the company’s culture: “Working at Bookminders for over 20 years… the things I love the most are the flexibility and the collaboration.”
“I really like the work we are doing here,” commented Jennifer Kuenzel, Senior Accountant. “I feel very rewarded from a professional standpoint. The clients really appreciate [us]… and you just feel really good about what you’re accomplishing.”
“Bookminders is the most supportive work environment I’ve ever had,” praises Julie Connolly, Senior Accountant and Team Advisor. “The management team is always there to help with anything. There’s always someone to reach out to.”
“At Bookminders, we don’t just work together—we encourage and uplift each other, which creates a positive and empowering environment,” shares Jennifer Whitmore, Director of Technology and Communications. “It’s this shared devotion to each other and to our clients that truly makes Bookminders a special place to work.”
Driven by Excellence, Distinguished by Trust
Reacting to this year’s top placement and her Leadership Award, Jessica Minkus credited Bookminders’ staff, with special thanks to her all-female leadership team. “This award is a tribute to your unwavering commitment and the culture we have shaped together. You set the bar high, showing that a workplace can provide purpose, connection, and fulfillment. I’m inspired daily by your dedication, innovation, and relentless pursuit of excellence.”
Minkus extended her appreciation to Bookminders’ external team, saying, “Thank you to our hundreds of local nonprofits and small business clients, as well as our partners. Your impact ripples through every corner of our communities. It is an honor to stand with you. We remain dedicated to being driven by excellence and distinguished by trust. These are not just our goals, but the way we have and will continue to do business every day.”
Check out the Post-Gazette’s interactive Top Workplace guide for more insights into the companies making waves in Pittsburgh.
Pictured, Left to Right: Director of Business Development, Amy O’Connor; Senior Accountant & Project Manager, Jennifer Krebs; Quality Assurance Manager, Kathy Bacik-Bonetti; Senior Accountant & Team Advisor, Julie Stahl; Senior Accountant & Team Advisor, Maura Rodgers; Director of Operations, Mary Susan Anderson; Senior Accountant & Team Advisor, Julie Connolly; Chief Executive Officer, Jessica Minkus; Founder, Tom Joseph; Director of Operations, Lisa Wentz; Director of Training & Development, Maria Holtz; Client Relations Manager, Anne Marie Wiegmann; Vice President of Business Development, Pamela Falkner Hartigan; Office Manager, Jenna Kelly; Director of Business Development, Melanie Rutan; Director of Technology & Communications, Jennifer Whitmore; Senior Accountant & Team Advisor, Jeanine Finn.