Meet These Inspiring Female Springfield Business Leaders

It’s no secret that southwest Missouri is full of female leaders guiding businesses to success. Learn how companies in Springfield, Missouri, are committed to building diverse leadership, empowering their employees and enriching our business community. 

Joselyn Baldner’s Central Bank: Leading with Expertise, Innovation and Community Commitment

417-881-3100 / 1800 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield / centralbank.net

What they do: Central Bank blends the personalized service of a community bank with the strength and resources of a leading financial institution. Rooted in relationship-driven banking, Central Bank focuses on empowering individuals, businesses and communities to thrive. Their commitment to financial literacy and innovative solutions ensures that every client, from first-time homebuyers to thriving business owners, has the tools for success.

Who they are: At the heart of this mission are the female leaders who drive the bank’s strategic growth, innovation and customer-focused approach. From executive leadership to client-facing roles, these women bring expertise and vision to every aspect of their work. Central Bank believes that diverse leadership creates stronger decision-making, deeper customer relationships and a more innovative financial landscape.

Central Connect: The bank’s Central Connect leadership program furthers this mission by developing emerging leaders, providing hands-on training and strengthening internal connections. The program is crucial to the growth of the next generation of bankers in becoming leaders in the community and the company. Through mentorship and continuous learning, Central Bank ensures its future remains as strong as its legacy.

What’s next: As Central Bank looks ahead to the possibilities the future holds, it remains committed to providing safe and dependable financial services, community outreach and support—everything that makes a community bank a true community partner.

How Female Leaders at Citizens Memorial Hospital Are Advancing Patient Safety

417-326-6000 / 1500 N. Oakland Ave., Bolivar / citizensmemorial.com

Who they are: Citizens Memorial Hospital (CMH) is a leader in patient safety and quality through a strategic focus on creating zero patient harm. Women on the executive team, senior leadership team and medical staff leadership are championing efforts to deliver the safest and highest quality care at CMH. These leaders work with employees at all levels to ensure patient safety, earning national recognition, including “A” safety grades from The Leapfrog Group in 2024.

What they do: CMH also works with community partners to increase access to health care, especially among at-risk groups. The hospital is one of six rural hospitals in a five-year pilot project from Missouri HealthNet, which runs the state’s Medicaid program. Through the Transformation of Rural Community Health (ToRCH) program, CMH and community partners are working to improve health and wellness by reducing barriers to accessing health care. CMH’s fully integrated health care system includes an 86-bed hospital, 34 physician clinics, seven long-term care facilities, retail pharmacies, home health care services and more. From employees working on the front lines to those in the executive offices at CMH, women are improving health care in rural southwest Missouri.

Darla Stringer Brings Cutting-Edge Wellness to Springfield with Counter Negative

Erica Lea Design Studios Elevates Home Design in the Ozarks

417-731-4086 | 380 E. State Highway CC, Suite D 105, Nixa, MO | Ericaleadesignstudios.com

What they do: In the world of home design, Erica Lea Design Studios (ELDS) believes a well-designed home is more than just a space— it’s a lasting legacy for families and the communities they reside in. At ELDS, they go beyond designing houses; they create havens that reflect the unique essence of the people who live in them, fostering family wellness for generations. ELDS stands out with its customer-focused, white-glove approach, led by founder Erica Hendrix. Each project is a tailored masterpiece, designed to resonate with the individuals who call it home. 

The impact: Its commitment extends beyond home interiors. Working alongside a team of insightful female leaders, ELDS actively engages in projects with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Springfield HBA Board of Directors and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. We’re dedicated to making a positive impact, both inside our homes and out in the community.

The goal: Whether crafting homes or contributing to community projects, the ELDS team strives to “enhance and elevate” the lives of those in 417-land. Join them on a journey where thoughtful design not only transforms spaces but leaves a lasting imprint on the lives of the people they serve.

Amber Munnik Leads Munnik Real Estate Group with a Client-Centric, Family-Focused Approach

417-616-1782 / 3745 S. Fremont Ave. A, Springfield / munnikrealestategroup.com

What they do: Munnik Real Estate Group, a prominent player in the Springfield, Missouri real estate scene, stands out for its commitment to customer experience and its empowering principles, championed by founder Amber Munnik. Specializing in streamlining seamless transactions for both buyers and sellers, the company adds a touch of luxury to every interaction, making moving or selling property in southwest Missouri an unparalleled experience.

Who leads the business: Amber Munnik is the unstoppable force behind the company. After raising three children as a stay-at-home mom, she reentered the workforce three years ago. Amber’s resilience was particularly evident in the face of tragedy, having lost her middle child in a car accident last year. Despite the challenges, she remains an inspirational figure, emphasizing the importance of family amidst the daily grind.

The goal: Munnik Real Estate Group distinguishes itself with a client-centric approach. The company takes pride in demystifying the real estate journey, offering educational resources and personalized buyer and seller guides that meticulously break down the process. Their focus isn’t merely financial success. While being high producers in the area, their ultimate goal is finding families a home they love. Amber says her favorite thing is witnessing children’s excitement in a new home, emphasizing that clients are not just statistics but cherished individuals making big life decisions. Their clients are treated with care—like family.

Simmons Bank is Trusted for Financial Services and Exceptional Customer Care in Southwest Missouri

417-875-5267 / 4625 S. National Ave., Springfield / simmonsbank.com / Member FDIC

What they offer: For more than a century, Simmons Bank has grown from a small, community bank to a premier Mid-South bank spanning six states. Simmons Bank offers a full suite of financial products and services designed to meet the needs of individual consumers and business customers. In 2024, Simmons Bank was named to Forbes’ lists of America’s Best-in-State Employers in Missouri and U.S. News & World Report’s Best Companies to Work For in the South.

What you can expect: The team in Southwest Missouri understands strong customer relationships are built on trust, open and frequent communication and a genuine passion for helping others succeed. With attention to service and detail, paired with a caring team focused on delivering an excellent customer experience, Simmons Bank is proud to provide innovative and quality financial products and services to their customers in 417-land.

What sets them apart: The success of Simmons Bank in Southwest Missouri would not be possible without their group of women associates who prioritize their customers each day. There are 15 branches in the 417 area to best serve customers including Branson, Crane, El Dorado Springs, Joplin, Lockwood, Marshfield, Mount Vernon, Nixa, Ozark, Reeds Springs, Springfield and Stockton.

Arvest Bank Empowers Springfield with Community-Focused Banking and Exceptional Leadership

417-885-7240 | arvest.com

About the business: Arvest Bank is consistently recognized as a top workplace, thanks to its commitment to empowering associates and supporting communities. Founded on prioritizing customers and the areas it serves, this philosophy drives operations, including in Springfield. 

What they offers: As one of the largest privately owned banks in the United States, with over $26 billion in assets, Arvest offers a community-oriented banking experience. Led by a Springfield team featuring female leaders, the bank delivers traditional and digital solutions, including loans, investments and cash flow management. Through initiatives like Million Meals and We Love Teachers, associates actively make a positive impact on the 417 community.

BluCurrent's Female Leadership Drives Growth and Personalized Service in the Ozarks

417-887-1983 / 4520 S. National Ave., Springfield / blucurrent.org

BluCurrent has proudly served the Ozarks since 1929, supporting over 23,700 members and managing $351 million in assets.

Who leads the business: BluCurrent’s success is driven by strong female leadership throughout the credit union, including Lacey Stomboly, Chief Culture Officer; deAnna Downs, SVP/Chief Mortgage Officer; Melissa Porras, VP of Human Resources; and Cindy Singleton, VP of Branch Operations. Lacey and Melissa lead and serve BluCurrent’s 84 staff members, while deAnna’s mortgage department assisted 473 families with their homes in 2024.

What’s new: Cindy’s branch team is preparing to open two new branches in 2025, furthering BluCurrent’s commitment to personalized, affordable service.

Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #459303. Member NCUA.

Christine Howell Leads Brookline Doorworks with Innovation and Empowerment

417-883-3667 | 308 W. Lakewood St., Springfield, MO | brooklinedoorworks.com 

AWho leads the business: Christine Howell, the trailblazing owner of Brookline Doorworks, is opening new doors—literally and figuratively. As a leader in a male-dominated field, Christine is on a mission to inspire the next generation of women, showing young girls, including her own daughter, that determination and hard work can break any barrier.

What they offers: Brookline Doorworks isn’t just about garage doors; it’s about reimagining your home’s potential. Their showroom showcases a wide range of beautiful designs, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your home and personality. From fully customized doors to fast service fixes, they offer craftsmanship and service that exceed expectations.

Abbye Bobbett Drives Success and Innovation at Kinetic Design + Development

417-530-4321 / 2215 W. Chesterfield Blvd. Suite 01, Springfield / kineticdd.com

Who leads the business: Since 2022, Abbye Bobbett has served as a principal architect and COO of Kinetic Design + Development, an architecture + development services firm located in Chesterfield Village. Helping others succeed is core to Bobbett’s leadership, which includes daily oversight of 48 staff that represent national clients and prominent local projects like Thunder Ridge Nature Arena in Ridgedale, Missouri. “I love seeing people overcome challenges and discovering an ability within them they didn’t realize they had,” says Bobbett. Leading from a place of conviction, Bobbett daily represents the firm’s vision statement “People are our purpose,” a commitment built on serving others.

Jessica Harmison-Olson Leads Maxon Fine Jewelry into a New Era of Excellence 

417-887-1800 | 2850 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield | maxonfinejewelry.com

Who leads the business: Legacies are hard to build and even harder to maintain, but that is exactly what Jessica Harmison-Olson has done ever since she and her husband Ryan achieved full ownership of Maxon Fine Jewelry in 2023. Under her leadership, Maxon Fine Jewelry has launched into a new era, all while upholding its reputation for exceptional quality and personalized service.

The goal: Maxon Fine Jewelry’s foundational focus has long been on creating memorable experiences while fostering enduring relationships, something Jessica has nurtured through a leadership style deeply rooted in community involvement. Her dedication to her craft, as well as the numerous local organizations she serves, ensures that Maxon Fine Jewelry remains The Jeweler of the Ozarks.

Dr. Olevia Pitts Inspires Change and Fosters Growth as a Hospitalist at Mercy

417-820-2000 | 1235 E. Cherokee St., Springfield |  Mercy.net

Dr. Olevia Pitts is an internal medicine-trained hospitalist at Mercy with a passion for leadership. A 1986 graduate of the University of Missouri–Kansas City, she has been in leadership roles since the early 90s and holds a certificate in hospitalist medicine leadership from the University of California–San Francisco. 

The impact: Dr. Pitts believes true leadership stems from a desire to inspire change, influence others and foster relationships. With an open-door policy, she mentors her team, offering guidance and support. “You have to be willing and humble enough to fail,” she says, “because if you don’t try, you’re never going to succeed.”

Taylor Warwick Leads Mercy Springfield Communities with a Focus on Growth, Sustainability and Mentorship for Women in Leadership

417-820-2000 | 1235 E. Cherokee St., Springfield |  Mercy.net

Taylor Warwick is the Chief Operating Officer for Mercy Springfield communities where she has responsibility for and oversees operational areas across the community, including hospital and clinic locations. 

The goal: With more than five years of experience as a COO in Kansas City, she now focuses on growth, sustainability and building strong partnerships with physicians and leaders to advance care by delivering a high-quality, differentiated experience. 

The impact: Passionate about fostering growth, Warwick mentors and supports women, encouraging them to seek leadership opportunities. Proactive in developing future leaders, she emphasizes the value of curiosity, flexibility and mentorship and advises women to embrace new opportunities and not let perfection hinder progress.

Nettie J’s Medical Parlor and Perimeter Offers Positive Transformation Through Expert Care and Healing

417-234-5622 | 3100 S. National Suite 103, Springfield | nettiejsbeautyandbotoxparlor.com

About the business: Nettie J’s Medical Parlor, led by Amy Cline and its all-female team, is Springfield’s elite medical spa, blending cutting-edge aesthetic treatments with holistic healing. 

What they offer: Its expert team—including cosmetic nurse injectors, medical and holistic aestheticians, cosmetologists and reiki masters—delivers personalized care tailored to each client’s self-love journey. With unparalleled expertise, top-tier services and a passion for empowerment, Nettie J’s is more than a spa—it’s a transformative experience. Whether enhancing beauty or restoring balance, they are the ultimate glam squad for those seeking confidence and renewal.

About the business: Perimeter, with a predominantly female-powered team, including CEO Alyssa Ingle, offers hope and transformation for children in acute crisis. 

Who leads the business: Ingle’s background bridges administrative and clinical aspects, ensuring quality mental health care. 

What’s new: The hospital’s updated design includes spaces like a Gym, Game Room and a library, fostering positive behavioral outcomes with settings that teach coping mechanisms with real-time feedback loops. Environments like their Sensory Room, provide controlled calm for emotional regulation during crises. Diverse therapeutic modalities and individualized care and discharge planning highlight their commitment to the well-being and transformation of children in crisis. 

Get more info: Call 417-799-7474 24/7 for a free, confidential assessment.

Quality Clean: Over 20 Years of Serving the 417 Community with Customized Cleaning Solutions

417-833-4250 | 2305 E. Olive Ct. A, Springfield, MO | myqualityclean.com

About the business: Locally owned and family-operated, Quality Clean offers quality service, with a drive to elevate small businesses and serve the community. Owner Cindy Gibson says, “Our business is here to grow and help others succeed. Small businesses are the core of the 417 area.”

The goal: Quality Clean values teamwork. Managers Brittany Marler and Kaylie Alejandro help their team strive to be the best by keeping customers happy and earning clients’ trust. Quality Clean customizes their cleaning plans to the specific characteristics of each space to uniquely suit an office’s needs.

Celebrating over 20 years in 2025, Quality Clean provides the quality results your business deserves!