Best Places to Work in Springfield, Missouri 2024

For the fourth year, Biz 417 is celebrating the Best Places to Work in southwest Missouri—and the winners have all participated in a rigorous evaluation process.

Only the very highest-ranking companies, top 10 in each size category (small employers with 15 to 99 employees, and large employers with 100 or more employees) scored highly enough to place on our list and to be profiled in the magazine.

How were the 20 list-makers chosen? Every company that applies is carefully evaluated using a hefty amount of data from our partner, Best Companies Group, an organization dedicated to building better workplaces. The application process requires information provided by the company and a survey with more than 75 questions completed by its employees anonymously. Employee feedback is weighted more heavily than company-provided stats, meaning the results paint a true picture of what it’s really like to work there. If scores don’t pass a specific threshold, a company cannot be named a Best Place to Work. Companies that apply are later provided the data and can use the insights from it to determine how to improve their own workplaces.—Dori Grinder

The Best Small Companies to Work for in Springfield, Missouri 2024

1. Ollis/Akers/Arney Insurance & Business Advisors

For the second year in a row, Ollis/Akers/Arney Insurance & Business Advisors secured the No. 1 spot. A strategic focus on employee engagement the past three years has contributed to an exceptionally low turnover rate.

“We recognize that our employee-owners are our most important asset and are the true differentiator in how we are able to best serve our clients,” says Tammy Johnson, director of marketing and community relations.

Team members know their voices matter with regular meetings strengthening trust. “The quarterly all-employee meetings provide a consistent environment for sharing information, including company updates,” she says.

Flexible work arrangements for retirement-aged employees allow them to mentor younger employees. “One hundred percent of their time is dedicated to consulting, training and support, ensuring a deep bench of experience,” she says.

Financial benefits include a 401(k) plan with a 50% match of the contributed amount up to a maximum employer contribution of 2% each pay period and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan. The culture of transparency empowers every employee-owner. “Our ownership mentality is a cornerstone of our culture,” she says. “We are committed to each individual’s success.”

2. Keep Supply

Keep Supply jumps from eighth to second place this year reflecting a thriving workplace culture. “When people walk in the door, they immediately notice a vibe,” says Lindsay Bauer, director of people and culture. “We’re doing everything we can to lift people to higher levels.”

Employees enjoy 100% employer-paid health benefits for themselves and their dependents. Unlimited PTO emphasizes the importance of balance. “People need time to take care of life and rest, and we don’t think it’s beneficial to put a finite amount of time on this,” says Bauer.

Practicing Jack Stack’s Great Game of Business, the company promotes transparency and involvement from all employees. The Golden Taco award encourages employees to give taco emojis to peers in Slack for a chance to win a Caesar’s Old Mexico gift card, and the quarterly Golden Keeper award honors those embodying the company’s mission to “be the best part.”

Other recognition programs include weekend getaways and a $2,500 trip as a reward for five years of service. Activities like Taco Tuesday, after-hours sports, and impromptu cookouts by the owners also add to the vibe. “We are a very collaborative place,” Bauer says. “Our ownership is amazing and super humble, and people are proud to work here.”

3. Rick’s Automotive

By cultivating a supportive, family-like environment, Rick’s Automotive has earned its recurring place on the list. Led by fourth-generation Springfieldian Rick and his family, the management team continually strives to give back to their employees. They offer a variety of benefits including a 10% 401(k) match plus 100% covered health insurance at mid-level plans with the difference applied to a health savings account for those on lower plans.

Special occasions are celebrated with cash bonuses, and employees can trade accrued time off for pay or donate it to colleagues in need. “Everybody looks after each other,” says Vice President Travis Comfort. “We are always looking for specific things we can do to make employees feel special.” This sense of camaraderie and mutual support is a cornerstone of Rick’s Automotive’s success.

Innovative programs like 0% loans for car repairs, monthly and annual peer recognition programs, and fully funded dream vacations for 20-year anniversaries demonstrate Rick’s commitment to their team.  “We treat our employees like family and not like a number,” says Comfort. “There is more to life than just work. I think they see all the little things we do and they appreciate it. It makes our Rick’s family bond stronger.”

4. Paragon Architecture

With a turnover rate of just 1% in the past year, Paragon Architecture’s holistic commitment to its employees includes professional development and personal fulfillment. “We have a culture of learning where we don’t limit people from trying,” says marketing manager Gina Harris. “They are free to learn and discover in a supportive environment.”

This support includes funding for education, pairing employees with mentors and conducting individualized ergonomic assessments. The company offers unlimited PTO, a 30-day sabbatical after seven years of full-time employment (and every four years thereafter), and 100% medical premiums paid for the employee and one dependent. Dental and vision premiums are fully paid for the entire family. The building also has an on-site gym and wellness room.

Paragon’s Sherpa philosophy of service and humility guides their mission. “A sherpa is a highly skilled and experienced individual who helps others climb seemingly impossible mountains,” says Harris. “Being the sherpa is our culture and our motto. There is a sense of family here and a certainty that we all have each other’s backs.”

This motto extends into the community as well. Employees earn bonuses for participating in community service.

5. LoanBidz.com by Investment Property Loan Exchange

With its blend of work-life balance initiatives, engaging staff events and creative recognition programs, LoanBidz.com has created an environment where employees feel motivated and contribute to the company’s success. Team members are encouraged to collaborate and support each other’s professional growth. “We want our employees to feel comfortable sharing ideas and working together, which leads to better problem-solving and innovation,” CEO Damon Riehl says.

To add an element of fun to their sales-driven environment, Loadbidz.com offers unique recognitions, such as a Wall of Fame featuring certificates for various company benchmarks. Monthly rotating trophies are awarded for categories like most loans closed.

Leadership is known for being approachable and supportive of different perspectives and experiences. Sarah Downey, SVP of Operations, says, “We want to ensure that every employee feels valued, respected and heard, regardless of their background, gender or beliefs. We want to foster a sense of community that encourages diversity.”

Perks include flexible work arrangements, an on-site gym with showers, a pet-friendly policy and regular events organized by the Employee Engagement Team like Finance Friday Happy Hours at 4 by 4 Brewing Company.

6. Graddy Real Estate

At Graddy Real Estate, it’s not just about selling homes, it’s about building a family. Celebrating 20 years under CEO Adam Graddy’s leadership, the work environment feels more like a supportive tribe than a typical office. “Our vibrant culture is the heartbeat of our company,” says Graddy.

Graddy takes career growth seriously, providing autonomy and professional development opportunities. Full benefits include medical, a 401(k) match up to 5%, and two weeks of flexible PTO plus three additional paid days off for professional development, volunteering or personal use. “We love to give back to the community and want our team members to give back to anything that fills their bucket,” says Melinda Love, director of operations.

Wellness matters here too. From day one, employees get a free gym membership at Achieving Your Best (also on the list), and the staff regularly works out together.

Weekly one-minute “plank time” sessions relieve stress, as does cuddle time with Millie, the office micro goldendoodle. “Our team motto is ‘How you show up matters,’” Love says. “There is no ‘less than’ position on our team; everyone is a leader. We show up each day to help each other be the best we can.”

7. Achieving Your Best, LLC

At Achieving Your Best (AYB), owner Cassie Dimmick has created a workplace that defies fitness industry norms. With zero turnover in the last year, AYB offers a rare combination of stability, growth and work-life balance. “Together, we can amplify our positive impact on the Springfield community,” Dimmick says.

This sense of purpose is backed by tangible benefits: 100% employer-paid health and dental insurance, retirement plans with matching, and unlimited free exercise classes for staff and their families. “AYB is truly a place where a personal trainer, physical therapist or dietitian can have a lasting career,” Dimmick says. She also emphasizes the importance of work-life balance with flexible scheduling and paid time off. “With the financial and wellness foundations set, we can be more creative, happier and healthier as a team.”

The company promotes inclusivity through multicultural awareness activities and FUSE training through Missouri State University, promoting understanding across diverse backgrounds. Quarterly development meetings and continuing education demonstrate AYB’s investment in growth. “We are all part of something bigger than ourselves because at AYB, we are all actively participating in helping people live better lives,” she says.

8. Xtreme Exteriors Roofing & Siding LLC

Xtreme Exteriors Roofing & Siding LLC debuts on the list this year, proving that sometimes, growth opportunities can outweigh traditional benefits in strengthening job satisfaction rates. “The owners nurture career advancement and there is a lot of promotion within the company,” says Miykal Jenkins, senior office manager. “They genuinely care about their employees. I have enjoyed watching others grow from an in-house installer to a great leader.”

Despite not offering conventional benefits, Xtreme Exteriors has managed to maintain minimal turnover, a testament to their innovative culture. Calling themselves Team Xtreme, for unity, the company has a pet-friendly office and surprise Fridays off. This contributes to a relaxed, family-like atmosphere while their recognition programs, including Employee of the Year and Top Sales awards, motivate staff. “We strive to make sure everyone feels like family rather than just a number in a company,” Jenkins says. “We want employees to look forward to coming into work.”

This approach, paired with a work-life balance commitment, creates a place where employees thrive. “This is the most enjoyable and positive work environment I’ve experienced,” Jenkins says. “I look forward to seeing everyone daily. It feels like I’m surrounded by family and friends.”

9. Kinetic Design + Development

Since opening in September 2022, Kinetic Design + Development has quickly established itself as a model for employee-centric workplace culture. Abbye Bobbett, chief operations officer, says, “People are our purpose. This is more than a tagline. It’s the foundation on which our firm was built.” This philosophy is evident in their comprehensive benefits package, including a 4-day work week, 100% employer-paid health insurance and generous paid leave.

Employees are encouraged to take daily 30-minute mental breaks. The office features a dedicated decompression space with ping-pong, puzzles and Legos. “A lot of our team walk around the neighborhood that surrounds our office building, get a coffee or Sonic drink, or simply check in on friends and family on social media,” says Bobbett. Monthly social outings, fully funded by Kinetic, have included a Super Bowl party, Snowflex at Wolfe Mountain and a cooking class.

The Kinetic Kares program engages staff in quarterly service projects, such as meal packing at Ozarks Food Harvest and landscaping at The Child Advocacy Center. Director of Marketing Dane Benton says, “Shifting away from the ordinary has allowed us to equip our team to be uniquely themselves while exploring creative interests and growing in their desired career paths.”

10. Pearson-Kelly Technology

As the only female-owned managed service provider in the region, Pearson-Kelly Technology (PKT) stands out in Springfield, Missouri’s tech scene. CEO Chelsey Bode has built a workplace that puts family first while driving growth. “As a mom of two young kids with the desire to have a career and a family, I wanted to not only find a way personally, but to develop an environment for others as well,” says Bode. This philosophy translates into day-to-day flexibility for employees, allowing them to both manage family affairs while maintaining high expectations for client service.

To keep things engaging, PKT gamifies performance metrics and runs a Quarterly MVP program. They bonus staff based on data that aligns with the overall PKT goals and not feelings of a job well done for just working hard. “If our team members are not hitting their targets, we communicate with a simplified gameplan to coach to get them there,” Bode says.

PKT also invests in its employees through certification reimbursements and ongoing tuition assistance programs. The company attracts talent by living its values. Charles Johnston, solutions specialist, says, “I feel like Chelsey and Mike truly value my opinion. PKT’s growth mindset with an employee-first approach keeps me here.”

The Best Large Companies to Work for in Springfield, Missouri 2024

1. West Plains Bank and Trust Company

After four years on the list, West Plains Bank and Trust Company jumps to number one this year. American Banker Magazine’s “Best Bank to Work For” listing ranked West Plains Bank and Trust Company 11th out of 90 banks.

Under the 19-year leadership of President and CEO David M. Gohn, West Plains boasts a low 7% turnover rate and has an intentional approach to retention. “Our workspaces, benefits package, culture, and community involvement are all focused on engaging employees and having them connect with one another to form a team,” Gohn says.

This employee-driven approach has been instrumental in the bank’s success, ensuring that employees have a voice in every aspect of the organization. Loan Processor Cordell Finley says, “We support employees by providing avenues to further their education in banking, business and general financial services.” Comprehensive benefits include 100% health and dental coverage for full-time employees and flexible PTO options.

Employees appreciate the bank’s family-oriented atmosphere. Assistant Branch Manager Rebecca Phelps says, “Having two small children who are very active in extracurricular activities, it is such a good feeling to know I don’t have to choose between my family or work.”

2. Olsson

A people-centric culture that encourages creativity and leadership lands the engineering firm Olsson on the list for the first time. An employee-owned company, Olsson offers a robust compensation program, 401(k) matching and an employee stock ownership plan. Lisa Sedivy, director of communications, says, “We exist for our employees, first and foremost. We encourage our people to lead, to make decisions, to go beyond boundaries and to design creative solutions on behalf of our clients—and then we cheer them on to take ownership.”

Employees at Olsson are encouraged to seek out new ideas regardless of their experience level. A team-style structure enables more than 2,000 employees to operate in smaller units, increasing accountability and success.

Olsson’s open-door policy keeps employees informed and engaged. They offer flexible work environments, including in-office, hybrid and remote options. Daniel Bauerkemper, client manager, says, “What’s different about Olsson is the people. They care for one another. They work for each other, they teach each other, and I just haven’t seen that kind of culture anywhere else.” The firm also supports community involvement through initiatives like the Olsson Community Impact Council and provides volunteer time off for employees.

3. JMARK

With a culture that prioritizes people over technology, JMARK has created an environment where employees thrive. CEO Tom Douglas, who has been with the company for 26 years, holds rallies twice a month, gathering the entire company onto one combined Zoom/live-in-office event to celebrate company and departmental wins, toast achievements and share camaraderie.

Their Culture Crew provides a safe space for employees to voice concerns and develop solutions. Douglas says, “We see our team members as whole humans. To not only value them for the work and effort they consistently put in, but also celebrate and reward those efforts.” JMARK’s focus on employee well-being is further demonstrated by their award recognition programs, and a Wellness Program that offers cash bonuses for achieving objectives.

The company is also committed to diversity and inclusion, actively engaging with organizations like Student African American Brotherhood (SAAB) and the Missouri Career Center to discover talent. Douglass says, “We serve a wide array of businesses, industries and causes—and our team members should reflect that.” This comprehensive approach to employee care has led to an impressive 5% turnover rate and an average employee tenure of 8.5 years.

4. Emery Sapp & Sons

New to the list, Emery Sapp & Sons (ESS) is a 100% employee-owned heavy civil construction company that has built a thriving culture across its 19 Midwest offices. Jason Rode, executive vice president of operations, says, “Our culture is rooted in our employee ownership and core values, the 5Ps—people, purpose, partnership, passion and performance. With people by far being the most important, we work hard, we are accountable, we are a team and we have each other’s back.”

This ownership model creates a sense of belonging and drives success. “We keep the profits in the pockets of our employee-owners,” Rode says. “People are more passionate about their work because their sweat equity drives it.” This commitment extends beyond financial success. ESS invests heavily in training and development programs, offering a range of opportunities from internships to custom e-learning.

ESS has significantly improved their employer-paid contributions on medical plans and enhanced PTO. Their local roots mean their workforce directly impacts the community. Rode says, “Our employee-owners take pride in how they contribute to their community. Our guys and gals love driving down the road and telling our kids or anyone who will listen, we built that, and that and that.”

5. Abacus!

The mission at Abacus! is to create mutually profitable partnering alliances with not only their clients, but also employees. So, it’s no wonder they have repeatedly made the list. Chief Excellence Officer Andrea Battaglia says, “Our culture gives employees the freedom to thrive. We empower employees to be decision-makers and take control of their careers.”

One of their managing partners for more than 25 years, Bill Dunton, champions an entrepreneurial atmosphere where staff are encouraged to share ideas and innovate. This spirit of ownership and flexibility is a cornerstone of their work environment. “Success is measured by productivity and results, not just hours at a desk, allowing for better work-life integration,” she says.

Inclusion is another key principle at Abacus! They actively recruit international talent, providing extensive support for visa and immigration processes while their flexible PTO policy respects diverse cultural celebrations. “We partnered with Missouri State University English Language Institute to improve and develop cultural understanding and communication for our international staff,” Battaglia says.

The company also places a strong emphasis on professional growth. Firm-wide retreats and celebrations demonstrate a dedication to employee well-being.

6. Jack Henry & Associates Inc.

Jack Henry & Associates Inc.’s strong commitment to its associates’ well-being and career development earned them a place on the list this year. “We have a people-first approach in all that we do,”  Kayla Raub, director of HR business partners, says.

This philosophy is reflected in comprehensive benefits and wellness programs, flexible workplace arrangements, career development opportunities and a competitive total rewards package offered to employees. “For example, each associate and their spouse/domestic partner enrolled in medical coverage can earn a credit on medical premiums up to $100 per person, per month by completing annual wellness incentive program objectives,” Raub says. The company also offers paid community volunteer hours, encouraging associates to give back to the causes that mean most to them.

Jack Henry established six associate-led, company-sponsored Business Innovation Groups  in 2023 to educate employees and support several groups including Veterans and individuals with visible and invisible disabilities. They offer mental and physical health benefits and recognize associates for exemplifying core values through their RISE program. Ashley Townzen, product support supervisor, says, “Jack Henry really does make you feel like you belong.”

7. Arvest

Arvest is one of the best places to work because of our associates,” says Jason England, president of Arvest Bank, Springfield Region. “We’re always looking for ways to show them that we appreciate them.” This commitment is evident in the bank’s comprehensive benefits, PTO, health care plans and wellness programs.

In addition to traditional benefits, Arvest recently launched an exclusive discount portal called The HUB, which gives associates access to discounts including places like Silver Dollar City. They also added Me@Arvest this year, a training program to help associates’ skills remain relevant and current.

Arvest takes pride in its inclusive workplace where associates are encouraged to make a difference inside the branches and out in their communities. Programs like the Associate Impact Groups (AIGs) offer a platform for associates to connect, share ideas and make a difference. “We work hard to encourage and maintain a collaborative and caring workplace for our associates, and AIGs are one of the best ways we can do that,” England says. Additionally, the Fraud Buster Awards recognize associates who excel in protecting customers from fraud and the bank provides paid time during work hours for group volunteer opportunities with numerous organizations.

8. Toth and Associates, Inc.

Last year, Toth and Associates missed the list, and used the survey results to drive improvements. “Our employees wanted more flexibility, so we created a new PTO policy,” says President Adam Toth. “We wanted our employees to be happy, and we made changes based on the survey results.”  The new policy allows employees to accumulate leave and use it as needed. They also added an extra holiday and paid bereavement leave.

Toth offers competitive wages, extensive benefits and community-building activities, creating a work culture where employees feel valued. Monthly birthday celebrations, a self-serve espresso bar, ping-pong and cornhole games and regular family outings strengthen camaraderie and keep morale high. The leadership recognizes the workplace is more than just a job, but a community. “As we grow, we strive to keep a ‘family’ atmosphere by openly communicating, having fun and sincerely caring for one another,” says Toth.

This philosophy extends to their hiring practices, which favor friends and family in the workplace. “When people  think of us, I want them to think of family and I want them to think of more than their work,” Toth says. “It’s their work family and their friends and all the while we are doing important infrastructure work for our communities.”

9. Duck Creek Technologies, LLC

Under the 25-year leadership of CEO Michael Jackowski, Duck Creek Technologies puts the term global into action. With a remote-first environment, 100% of employees have the option to telecommute, offering flexibility without having to sacrifice productivity.  

This global mentality extends to the sharing of expertise among its staff. Lisa McIntire, head of talent acquisition, says, “As part of a community that is diverse and inclusive, we learn from, support and help each other to improve every day.” Duck Creek’s dedication to diversity and inclusion is evident through active employee resource and hiring groups, including those for Black, Hispanic, women, LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse employees. The company’s DivERGent program focuses on educating and practicing disability accessibility. Dheeptha Kadiam, software engineering intern, says, “I’ve always felt like my voice was being heard even though the company is spread across the world.”

Duck Creek’s approach to professional development also encourages employees to explore limitless growth opportunities, touting that it is up to each team member to decide how far they want to go within the organization. A generous 401(k) match, peer recognition programs and office activities nurture each employee’s potential.

10. Paddio

By blending their business best practices with employee well-being, Paddio encourages its team members to make genuine connections with each other. “Each teammate strives to embody our employee-created values: be passionate and have fun, deliver results with integrity and enhance lives every day,” says Director of Production Ryan Kluttz. “The exciting part is getting to see how each person does that in their own way.” Team members routinely share examples when they see these practices in action.

Diversity and inclusion are also key to the Paddio work environment. Celebrations throughout the year provide employees opportunities to learn about one another’s cultures. “We foster a welcoming place for different traditions and religions where we support one another,” says Kluttz. A few examples include a company-hosted Diversity Dialogue with El Cafecito, a local hispanic-owned business, and a wine tasting hosted by a local, Black-owned business for Juneteenth.

Group activities, free snacks and drinks, flexible scheduling and fun office events also create connections while an on-site fitness studio, paid gym memberships, financial counseling and a variety of mental health and wellness resources support employees as whole individuals, not just workers.

Methodology

Biz 417’s Best Places to Work is a celebration of elite employers that have proved that they know what it takes to create environments where people love to come to work. Identifying and recognizing these outstanding workplaces was a joint effort of Biz 417 and Best Companies Group.

The Best Places to Work program was open to all publicly or privately held organizations in the 417 region. To be eligible for consideration, organizations must have at least 15 employees in the region; being headquartered in the region was not a requirement. The Best Places to Work survey process was managed by Best Companies Group (BCG). BCG, an independent workplace-excellence research firm, managed the registration process, conducted the two-part survey process, evaluated the data, and ultimately chose the employers that were good enough to make the list. To go through the assessment process, employers needed to register by February 16, 2024. Part one of the assessment (one quarter of each organization’s score) consisted of the BCG Employer Questionnaire (EQ), used to collect information about each employer’s benefits, policies and practices, as well as other general information. Part two of the assessment (three quarters of each organization’s score) involved the confidential 78-question Employee Engagement & Satisfaction Survey (EESS), which was used to evaluate the employees’ workplace experience and culture. The combined data allowed the experts at BCG to conduct an in-depth analysis of the strengths and challenges that exist in each organization. BCG’s workplace-assessment experts determined which were good enough to make this year’s list. Participation was free, and each organization had the option to purchase access to the BCG EnGauge Dashboard organizing the employee data collected through the employee survey process.In addition to the employee opinion data, the EnGauge Dashboard also included recorded, employee-written comments, as well as benchmarking data from the winning and non-winning organizations. This data will help each company understand their workforce better and equip them with the information to make improvements. For more information about the methodology, visit bestplacestowork417.com or email lcohen@bestcompaniesgroup.com.