Cottingham & Butler [Telegraph-Herald (Dubuque, IA)]

Location: 800 Main St. Employees: 430 What they do: The No. 40 largest insurance broker in the U.S. works with medium-sized businesses in 47 states across the country. The company advises business owners on property and casualty insurance and employee benefit insurance.

WHY it's A WINNING WORKPLACE

Employee's view: "C&B has been my home away from home for the last 16 years.

"I began work here as a single parent, and when I was first hired, I knew I had a good job, with a great company. It also gave me peace of mind, with a fair wage, flexible work schedule, and medical, dental and life insurance benefits. I was able to concentrate on raising my kids, knowing how lucky we were.

"I have realized many career advancement opportunities, and the sky is the limit if you are willing to work hard and continue to learn and grow as our business evolves.

"C&B has an internal recycling program in place - we are as paperless as an office can be. My co-workers and our clients are

top-notch. Our employees, and business partners can be found at most Dubuque events, pitching in to make our community a better place to live and work."

- Ann Vrotsos, associate in claims

Employer's view: "What makes C&B a great place to work is the people and the culture. Our company has a dedicated group of colleagues who are committed to great client service and to personal growth and improvement. Our work is challenging and rewarding and really makes a difference to our clients."

- David Becker, president