Meet These Inspiring Female Springfield Business Leaders

Across Springfield and southwest Missouri, women are steering strategy, launching ventures and strengthening our local economy. On this page, you'll find examples of local leaders creating opportunities, championing their teams and proving that when women thrive in business, entire communities grow stronger and more innovative.

Central Bank 

1800 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, MO | 417-881-3100

Building Relationships and Taking the Long View

At Central Bank, leadership starts with relationships and a clear, long-term view. Diane Homan, executive vice president and Springfield market executive for Central Trust Company in southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas, and Joselyn Baldner, President and CEO of Central Bank, see wealth management as personal work rooted in trust, understanding and connection.

Diane Homan, Executive Vice President, Offers Peace of Mind

For Homan, wealth management extends far beyond numbers. It is an all-encompassing process that brings together investment management, financial planning and estate planning, all tailored to an individual’s goals and stage of life. Success is measured not just by growth, but by peace of mind. Clients rely on their financial plans even during volatile markets, confident their goals remain intact and their families supported.

Joselyn Baldner, President and CEO, Understands the Key to Longevity

Baldner sees longevity as the natural result of strong relationships. Central Bank serves not only individuals, but generations, building continuity and care across families and time. That commitment is strengthened by diverse leadership, which brings multiple perspectives to the table and allows teams to serve clients as individuals, not templates.

For Baldner and Homan, Clarity is the First Step

For women looking to take control of their financial future, both leaders say clarity is the first step. Knowing what you want, asking questions, and surrounding yourself with trusted advisors can shift the experience from overwhelming to empowering. At Central Bank, servant leadership and education create an environment where women feel valued, informed and confident moving forward.

Erica Lea Design Studios

380 E. State Hwy. CC Suite D105, Nixa, MO | 417-731-4086

Design That Creates a Haven

In the world of home design, a well-designed home is more than just a space—it's a lasting legacy for families and the communities they reside in. At Erica Lea Design Studios (ELDS), the team goes beyond designing houses; they create havens that reflect the unique essence of the people who live in them, fostering family wellness for generations.

Founder Erica Hendrix Wants Every Home to Be Uniquely Tailored

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.

Doing Good Through Design

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

What Erica Lea Design Brings to a Property 

Whether crafting homes or contributing to community projects, the ELDS team strives to “enhance and elevate” the lives of those in the Ozarks. The firm invites clients on a journey where thoughtful design not only transforms spaces but also leaves a lasting imprint on the lives of the people it serves.

Guaranty Bank

2144 E. Republic Rd., F200, Springfield, MO | 833-875-2492

A Longstanding Legacy of Impact

Founded in 1913, Guaranty Bank stands as a locally rooted, full-service community bank with a clear purpose: strengthening the places and people it serves. Through volunteering, philanthropy and a thoughtful approach to financial services, the bank focuses on creating a lasting, positive impact across its communities.

A Broad Reach with Customer Goals at the Center

Guaranty Bank serves a wide range of clients, including individuals, families and businesses of every size. At the center of that work is a relationship-driven model that prioritizes trust, accessibility and long-term partnership. Local decision-making allows teams to respond quickly, stay consistent and uphold strong risk management, all while keeping customers’ goals front and center.

The Role of Women Leaders in Guaranty Bank

Women play a vital role in shaping the bank’s direction. Strong female leaders serve throughout the organization, including within the management cabinet, helping guide strategy, culture and growth. Their leadership reflects Guaranty Bank’s commitment to inclusion and collaboration, encouraging diverse perspectives and impactful discussions at every level.

Giving Back Beyond the Workplace

That culture extends beyond the workplace. By reinvesting in local communities and supporting sustainable growth, Guaranty Bank strengthens not only its customers but the broader local economy. The result is a bank grounded in connection, guided by purpose and powered by women, influencing how the bank serves its communities.

Mercy Hospital Springfield

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

Dr. Jennifer Lu, Colon and Rectal Surgery

At Mercy, Dr. Jennifer Lu redefines comprehensive colorectal care in southwest Missouri. A specialist in robotic colorectal surgery, she treats diverticulitis, colon and rectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease and rectal prolapse with minimally invasive techniques. Her expertise includes robotic transanal surgery for rectal cancer, sacral nerve stimulators for fecal and urinary incontinence or retention and anorectal procedures for hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas and pilonidal disease. Colonoscopies remain central to her preventive care.

A Focus on Patient-Centered Care

Dr. Lu believes diverse leadership strengthens patient relationships, improves outcomes and builds trust across the community. Creating space for more voices leads to more patient-centered care and a stronger workforce, she says.

Measuring by Impact, Not Just Metrics

While she once measured early career success by benchmarks and clinical metrics, she now defines it by impact. If a patient returns to daily life with confidence and comfort, she considers that the true win.

An Advocate for Women

She is equally committed to advancing women. Dr. Lu advocates for them in decision-making rooms, recommends them for leadership roles and recognizes their contributions. She offers candid feedback, creates meaningful opportunities and encourages women to trust their abilities.

Better Care Through Better Relationships

Within her practice, she fosters transparency, honesty and camaraderie, knowing strong relationships build stronger teams and better care.

Simmons Bank

4625 S. National Ave., Springfield, MO | 417-875-5267

The Ongoing Growth of Simmons Bank

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 2023, Simmons Bank was named to Forbes’ lists of “World’s Best Banks” for the fourth consecutive year and “America’s Best-in-State Employers” in Missouri.

A Foundation of Trust

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 excellent customer experience, the team at Simmons Bank is proud to provide innovative and quality financial products and services to their customers in southwest Missouri.

Simmons Bank's Supportive Workplace Culture

Simmons Bank’s commitment to diversity and inclusion makes the bank a great place to work. Simmons invests in female leaders through mentorship, leadership training, the Women of Simmons Business Resource Group and a supportive workplace culture.

TLC Properties

3811 S. Weller Ave., Springfield, MO | 417-869-1118

Shaping Communities in Springfield, Missouri

Since 1988, TLC Properties has shaped communities in Springfield, and just as intentionally, fostered a workplace where women lead with wisdom, creativity and lasting impact. Founded as a family-owned company, TLC continues to have women present at every level of leadership and decision-making.

The Role of Women in TLC Properites's Company Culture

Today, of their 109 employees, 51 are women, a meaningful expression of that commitment. Seven serve in key leadership roles:

• Co-Founder Carol Carnes-Coryell
• Jennifer Coryell, Owner
• Jessi Whitten, Chief Revenue Officer
• Michelle Gibbs, Director of Operations
• Alina Silvey, Director of Facilities
• Hillary Dodwell, Asset Manager
• Mehl Maigi, Director of Marketing.

Recently, Dodwell, Maigi and Gibbs were recognized respectively for exceptional stewardship, Biblical principles and integrity— honors that embody the values of TLC culture.

Influencing Innovation to Better Serve Residents

The women of TLC influence innovation, mentor teams and strengthen collaboration. Their devotion to hospitality elevates how they serve residents and one another.

Benefits Beyond the Workplace

That same philosophy extends beyond the office. TLC provides paid parental leave—up to 80 hours for new parents—reflecting a culture that understands work and family are not competing priorities but connected callings.

Keeping People at the Heart of TLC Properties

The heart of TLC is found in its people, and the presence of women throughout the company enriches how they work, lead and serve their communities with strength and ingenuity.

Arvest Bank

417-885-7240

Arvest Bank is Driven by Local Leaders

Arvest is a full-service bank dedicated to offering financial products and services that help individuals and businesses of all sizes thrive and grow. The bank’s community-focused model ensures that decision-making is driven by local leaders who live and work in the Ozarks.

Arvest's Women in Leadership

Arvest’s Springfield team is led by experienced associates, including many exceptional women in leadership roles. Their guidance supports a community-first approach, providing a range of services from mortgage and consumer loans to private banking and commercial solutions that help local families and businesses succeed.

Arvest is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. Loans subject to credit approval. Services provided by Arvest Private Banking. Qualifications are required; see a dedicated private banker for more details.

Maxon Fine Jewelry

2850 E. Battlefield Rd., Springfield, MO | 417-887-1800

The Woman-Owned Jeweler of the Ozarks

At Maxon Fine Jewelry, leadership is a shared commitment rooted in people, purpose and community. Proudly known as The Jeweler of the Ozarks, Maxon is led by owner Jessica Harmison-Olson and a dedicated team who approach each client and every milestone, from engagements to anniversaries, with care and intention. Beyond the store, Jessica is serving as Chairman of the Board for the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce this year, underscoring Maxon’s role as a community leader. Team members are actively involved in Rotary clubs, animal rescues and numerous local charitable events. As a unified team, Maxon Fine Jewelry truly reflects the community it serves.

Quality Clean

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

About Quality Clean

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

Teamwork and Trust

Quality Clean values teamwork. Manager Kaylie Alejandro helps her team strive to be the best by keeping customers happy and earning clients’ trust. Quality Clean customizes its cleaning plans to the specific characteristics of each space to uniquely suit an office’s needs.

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