Profiles in Public Finance:
Brian Kelso

For more than 100 years, Baird has built its fixed income business the right way – by bringing on the top professionals in the industry and giving them all the tools and resources they need to serve their clients best. For Public Finance Banker Brian Kelso, that includes the flexibility to let him focus on building up charter school clients.

Baird has a great firm culture I was already very familiar with – that was the top reason I chose to come back.

Brian Kelso
Charter School Investment Banker
Denver, Colorado

How long have you worked in this industry?

I have been in public finance investment banking for almost my entire professional career, going back to 2003. I started with Baird in 2009, left in early 2020 and rejoined in October of 2021. Over my career I’ve worked with charter schools but also had the opportunity to service state agencies, local governments, utilities and traditional school districts.

What were the deciding factors that made you rejoin Baird?

I found I missed the public finance industry, and after considering a handful of other firms in this sector, I realized I was most excited about the opportunity to rejoin Baird. Baird has a great firm culture I was already very familiar with – that was the top reason I chose to come back.

What were your expectations about rejoining Baird?

My primary objective upon returning to Public Finance was to be able to focus my time helping charter schools finance their school buildings. While working with state agencies, local governments, utilities and traditional school districts was gratifying, I really wanted to narrow my scope of work so I could be more effective in servicing charter schools.

After being back at Baird for a while, have your expectations been met?

Absolutely! I’ve spent the last year reconnecting with the charter school industry and closing bond financings that allow charter schools to buy, build and renovate their facilities. I personally find it very rewarding to work with charter school leaders, tour schools and see the impact of our work on the students and communities.

It’s also been a pleasure to see that the great Baird culture continues to thrive. After a year outside the firm, it’s gratifying connecting with business leaders and colleagues who are always willing to share their time and resources. I’m also proud to be a Baird shareholder again, along with so many other Baird employees!