ounded in 1988, Deschutes Brewery—and its downtown Bend public house—are two Bend icons, providing beloved beers and a beloved gathering spot for both visitors and locals. Revered for its full-flavored craft beers, this ale-producing giant earns its staff's (and our readership's) adoration with unique employment policies and a dedication to fostering a healthy company culture.
Deschutes Brewery is a family and employee-owned independent business where President and CEO Michael Lalonde says everyone works hard to maintain a family-like culture. "We look at employees, whom we call 'co-owners,' as a whole person," explains Lalonde. "We've really tried to make Deschutes Brewery a place where people can come and build a long, rewarding career through learning new skills and taking on new challenges."
The company encourages employees to engage and make a difference. "From day one we ask new hires to think about how they can improve their jobs, how they can improve their department and the company overall," says Lalonde. The brewery sets aside a $5,000 venture fund that turns employee ideas into action, and there are a number of committees that co-owners can join to have an impact.
Deschutes Brewery employs 372 individuals locally and close to 200 in other parts of the U.S., totaling 565 individuals nationally. Lalonde says the company feels honored to be recognized as the best place to work.
"This is a great reflection of the legacy we've built here and the positive impact we've been able to have on the community. We are so proud of our fellow co-owners and share this award with every one of them."
Deschutes Brewery & Bend Tasting Room
901 SW Simpson Ave., Bend
541-385-8606
Deschutes Brewery Bend Public House
1044 NW Bond St., Bend
541-382-9242
2nd Place G5
