Daybright Financial Expands Its Reach Through the Acquisition of Hessel & Associates, LLC

Daybright Financial Strengthens Its Portfolio with Hessel & Associates Acquisition

In a strategic move to strengthen its position in the retirement planning sector, Daybright Financial announced the acquisition of Hessel & Associates, LLC, a revered pension consulting firm located in Lincolnshire, Illinois. The acquisition, which took place on August 27, 2025, marks a significant step for Daybright as it looks to enhance its service offerings in the Midwest region.

Founded in 1979 by Paul and Wendy Hessel, Hessel & Associates has built a strong reputation over the decades for providing comprehensive pension consulting services and solutions for small to mid-sized employers. The company offers a variety of retirement plans including 401(k), profit sharing, defined benefit plans, and cash balance plans. Under the leadership of Brooke Hessel Cline, who took over the helm in 2011, Hessel & Associates has continued to flourish while maintaining its client-centric approach.

Brooke Hessel Cline will continue her leadership role as Managing Partner in Daybright Financial’s Private Sector Retirement Solutions division. In a statement, Hessel Cline expressed excitement about the merger, highlighting, "We share a strong common culture with the Daybright team, focusing on our employees and delivering exceptional products and services to our clients. Joining forces with Daybright allows us access to vital resources, advanced technology, and the expertise necessary for future growth, particularly amid evolving regulations and technological advancements impacting our industry."

Patrick Hale, Head of Private Sector Retirement Solutions at Daybright Financial, praised Hessel Cline’s leadership, remarking, "Brooke is a dynamic leader with an experienced team of retirement experts who have cultivated strong relationships with clients over 45 years in business."

Megan Schneider, CEO of Daybright Financial, also shared her enthusiasm about the integration of Hessel & Associates, stating, "We’re thrilled to welcome Brooke and the entire Hessel team to Daybright to bolster our Private Sector Retirement Solutions segment and facilitate our continued expansion throughout the Midwest."

This acquisition aligns with Daybright Financial’s strategy to grow its portfolio. Since its inception in 2008, the firm has successfully integrated over 60 local and national firms that have been trusted by their communities. With a current reach of more than 18,000 employer groups and 3.6 million plan participants across the nation, Daybright Financial consistently maintains a reputation as a top employer, recognized as one of the 'Best Places to Work – USA'.

For more insights on Daybright Financial’s mission and expansion efforts, readers are invited to visit their official website at daybright.com. The company continues to actively engage with communities on various platforms, including LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

In conclusion, the acquisition of Hessel & Associates represents a pivotal moment for Daybright Financial, allowing it to leverage Hessel's deep expertise and solid client relationships as a foundation for future growth. This strategic move not only enhances Daybright's capability in retirement planning services but also solidifies its commitment to providing exceptional service to employers and their employees nationally.