O'Malley: Overcoming Hardships And Following Opportunities
In the 94 years since its founding in 1931, O’Malley Brothers, Inc. has seen three generations of family-owned leadership. Twin brothers and co-vice presidents John and James Reddington are poised to take over as the fourth generation, continuing the legacy of the company when their father, Jack, chooses to step down.
“We’re knocking on the door of 100 years, and that’s kind of exciting,” John said. “For my brother and I, that transition means planning for the future, adapting and evolving. It’s an exciting time in terms of where we are and where we’re heading. And as for my parents, they’ve always been generous, kind, active and engaged, and I’d love to have them a part of it for as long as they want.”
Nine decades is an accomplishment for any company be proud of; particularly when it involves overcoming obstacles. In the case of O’Malley Brothers, Jack suffered a severe and abrupt illness a few short years ago (he has since made a full recovery), causing the brothers to step into their leadership role quicker than anticipated. During the same time, they dealt with an internal embezzlement case. Ever the optimist, John viewed these obstacles as opportunities to continue developing and, ultimately, thrive.
“Hard times are some of the most important lessons,” he said. “In life, everyone always talks about balance but you forget that balance means really good, uplifting things and also equally hard things and heartbreak. How we respond during those times is a testament to character.”
The brothers found tremendous support in SMACNA Greater Chicago, particularly current association president Jeff Lukitsh and other leaders from local companies.
“My father had always had a great relationship with Jeff, and it’s because and through him that we became a member,” John said. “It’s all about building relationships, and we’ve connected with some very supportive and helpful people. I look forward to being a part of the organization for a long time. SMACNA is a huge opportunity for us to evolve and build our company.”
From the beginning, O’Malley has specialized in everything related to mechanical systems that involves insulation; specifically, duct insulation. On any given project, that could include everything from outside air, supply and return duct to kitchen exhaust duct (fire protection) and all related piping components for these systems. They’ve worked on dozens of high-profile projects — many in partnership with SMACNA Greater Chicago members: the 109th floor of the Willis Tower, Art Institute of Chicago, Sawmill Garden, a 10,000 square foot rooftop duct job at Marist Sports Complex and specialty projects like the Western Avenue Pumping Station.
“One of the fun things about our industry is we work in some incredibly fascinating places, and there’s such a process in how everything is done to reach the final product,” John said. “Some of the stuff we do requires a unique skillset and the techs really get to show off their craft, trade and skill set.”
As O’Malley Brothers nears one century of service in the Chicagoland area, the brothers are excited for the next chapter of the business. Their goals for the future include broadening their customer network and expanding their services, noting remediation services and energy efficiency solutions as possibilities.
At the end of the day, connections are key, whether it’s continuing to develop their close relationships with all their employees or cultivate their existing client relationships.
“A lot of people put a lot of work to build this and I’m proud of who they are and what they’ve accomplished, and it’s a privilege to be part of,” John said.