This year’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in Chicago includes three confectionery industry supplier companies:  Bell Flavors and Fragrances, Fona International, and Bosch.

The award, which is given out by the National Association for Business Resources, celebrates companies with unprecedented human resource practices and dedication to their employees.

All of the companies are evaluated by an independent research firm that looks at 10 categories, including: compensation, benefits and employee solutions; employee enrichment, engagement and retention; employee education and development; recruitment, selection, orientation; employee achievement and recognition; communication and shared vision; diversity and inclusion; work-life balance; community initiatives; and strategic company performance.   

Adam Reidel, head of human resources, Bell Flavors and Fragrances, says the award just highlights what the employees at Bell already know — it’s a great place to work.

“Our employees are engaged and energized each and every day; all focused on making Bell even greater than it is while improving their professional and personal lives,” he says. “The contributions of each and every Bell employee across the world make Bell who we are — The Best and Brightest.”

In addition to the main award, Fona also was given the Elite Award for Compensation, Benefits and Employee Solutions.

“We are grateful and indebted to our wonderful people, and it is an honor to share this award with them,” said FONA Chairman and CEO Joseph Slawek.

Jennifer Kluge, NABR’s ceo, says it takes dedication and a strong commitment to employees to be named as an Elite Winner.

“This year’s recipients keep innovative human resource initiatives at the forefront and make it a priority to consider their workforce as an essential aspect in their company success,” she says.

All of the companies were invited to an award celebration that was held on July 10, 2015. At the event, fellow winners were able to connect and network with one another in addition to hearing speakers from various companies including LaSalle Network and Harper College.

The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For is presented annually in several markets, including: Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Houston, Milwaukee, San Francisco and nationally. For a full list of winners, visit the NABR website.