Third Road Management President Ryan Kunkel named Crain’s Chicago Business Notable Leader

Third Road Management said President Ryan Kunkel was named a Crain’s Chicago Business Notable Leader in Accounting, Consulting & Law on Aug. 17, 2026. The recognition highlights his role in scaling the fractional CFO firm and helping clients navigate complex financial decisions.

Why it matters: - The recognition gives Third Road Management added visibility in Chicago’s professional-services market. - The honor underscores demand for fractional CFO and financial advisory support as more founder-led and middle-market companies look for flexible finance leadership. - Kunkel’s role reflects the firm’s growth and its positioning as a partner for businesses navigating change.

What happened: - Third Road Management announced that President Ryan Kunkel was named a Crain’s Chicago Business Notable Leader in Accounting, Consulting & Law. - The announcement was made on Aug. 17, 2026. - Crain’s Chicago Business selects Notable Leaders based on professional achievements, industry leadership and contributions to organizations and communities.

The details: - Third Road Management describes itself as a fractional CFO and financial consulting firm. - Kunkel has helped guide the firm through sustained growth while expanding its reach across the country. - The company said Kunkel has supported businesses making complex financial decisions with confidence. - Founder and CEO John Frank said Kunkel has been instrumental in building Third Road Management and shaping a culture centered on collaboration and long-term success. - Kunkel said the award reflects the team’s work and the mission to help business owners make smarter financial decisions. - Third Road Management said it now has 50 professionals serving clients in 18 states. - The firm provides fractional CFO, accounting and strategic advisory services to organizations in periods of growth, transition and change. - The company said it continues to invest in experienced talent and innovative solutions to help businesses build stronger financial foundations. - The company’s website is Third Road Management.

Between the lines: - The award suggests fractional finance services are becoming more mainstream for smaller companies that need senior-level expertise without a full-time hire. - Third Road Management is using the recognition to reinforce its credibility with founder-led and middle-market clients. - The mention of national reach signals a business model that is no longer tied to a single region.

What’s next: - Third Road Management said it will continue investing in talent and new solutions. - The firm is likely to keep leaning on awards and growth milestones to support client acquisition and brand awareness.

The bottom line: - Kunkel’s Crain’s recognition is both a personal honor and another sign that Third Road Management is scaling its fractional CFO platform beyond Chicago.