Champion earns #4 spot on Columbus Business First’s 2025 list

WESTERVILLE, OH (November 13, 2025) – The Champion Companies is proud to announce that it has been recognized by Columbus Business First as one of Central Ohio’s Best Places to Work for the 10th consecutive year—earning the #4 spot in the Large Company category. The annual program, conducted in partnership with Quantum Workplace, bases its results entirely on anonymous employee feedback measuring workplace satisfaction and engagement.

“This recognition means the world to us because it comes directly from our team members,” Michelle Yeager-Thornton, Vice Chairwoman and President of The Champion Companies, said. “To be honored for 10 straight years shows that our people-first culture remains consistent and strong, even as we evolve as an organization.”

Since its founding, Champion has focused on building a workplace where people feel valued, supported and inspired. The company’s culture emphasizes holistic well-being, professional development and a genuine sense of community.

“We often say that culture isn’t something that just happens—it’s something you build with intention every single day,” Kelli Berner, Chief Operating Officer, said. “Reaching this milestone of 10 consecutive years as a Best Place to Work reflects our ongoing commitment to listening to our team, adapting to their needs and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.”

“We have a company mantra that feedback is a gift,” Berner added. “Each year that we participate in the Best Places to Work program, we want to know how our team is feeling, where we can improve and how we can challenge ourselves to keep our team members engaged and fulfilled.”

Over the past decade, Champion has consistently placed among the top finishers in the Best Places to Work program, including six Top 3 finishes and three first-place wins. This year’s #4 ranking reaffirms the company’s commitment to excellence and its dedication to maintaining its family-knit culture.

About The Champion Companies
Founded in 2010 by siblings Brian Yeager and Michelle Yeager-Thornton, The Champion Companies is a multifamily investment, development and management firm headquartered in Westerville, Ohio. Over the last 15 years, Champion has built a real estate portfolio valued at more than $1 billion, with over 5,000 Class A multifamily apartments across Central Ohio.

Champion’s mission extends beyond property management with a focus on making a difference in the community. Through its philanthropic arm, the Champion Cares Foundation, the company partners with organizations such as the YWCA Family Center, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio, Children’s Hunger Alliance, Habitat for Humanity, Pelotonia, and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Ohio. To date, the Champion Cares Foundation has contributed $4.5 million and 10,000 volunteer hours to the Central Ohio community in need.
To learn more about The Champion Companies, please visit thechampioncompanies.com.