Smith Anderson’s People-First Culture Earns Best Employers Recognition

Smith Anderson has been named to Business North Carolina’s 2026 Best Employers list, earning the No. 4 spot in the extra-large company category for employers with more than 250 U.S. employees. The recognition was shaped in part by feedback from the people who know the firm best: its 280 attorneys and business professionals.

The annual list, compiled by Workforce Research Group by asking employers dozens of questions, recognizes companies across the state for workplace culture, employee engagement, and benefits. Business North Carolina noted that this year’s Best Employers are finding meaningful ways to support and retain their people, from flexible schedules and community involvement to wellness resources, family-friendly benefits, and activities that bring colleagues together. Because the selection process includes feedback from Smith Anderson’s own people, the honor carries special significance for the firm.

At Smith Anderson, employees point to the firm’s people-first culture, high-caliber legal work, collaborative environment, access to leadership, and opportunities to serve clients and the community as reasons the firm stands out. Firmwide traditions and benefits, including Week of Wellness, Family Day, Carolina Hurricanes ticket raffles, monthly birthday celebrations, employee feedback programs, and community service opportunities, help strengthen connection across the firm.

The recognition also reflects the lasting relationships attorneys and business professionals build at Smith Anderson. The firm’s average employee tenure is more than 12 years, and 80 colleagues have been with the firm for 20 years or more.

“Our relationships with our clients and each other make Smith Anderson what it is,” said Byron Kirkland, managing partner. “They drive our success and reflect the care, collaboration, and commitment our people bring every day.”

Click here to view the entire list of Business North Carolina’s 2026 Best Employers.