The St. Louis Business 500 highlights some of the metro area’s most impactful, innovative, and inspirational leaders, from C-suite executives to under-the-radar entrepreneurs across an array of industries.
Beyond the brief bios below, we created a questionnaire to shed light on some of these leaders’ achievements, aspirations, and interests beyond the office. Click “Read More” for more interesting insights from some of St. Louis’ top business leaders.
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JOHN BALES
DIRECTOR OF AVIATION, SPIRIT OF ST. LOUIS AIRPORT
Bales lives by the old adage that you miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take. “Maybe you were told in the past there was no chance,” he says. “Sometimes it was true, and sometimes it wasn’t, and when it was a success, it was far greater than you expected.” With more than 30 years of aviation experience, Bales takes pride in the airport’s partnership with the nonprofit flight-training program the Red Tail Cadets, an immersive six-week program that introduces students to the aviation industry.
RHONDA HAMM-NIEBRUEGGE
DIRECTOR, ST. LOUIS LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Hamm-Niebruegge, who will retire in August after 17 years leading St. Louis Lambert International Airport, has shepherded several significant milestones. Among them: the long-sought nonstop flight to London, set to launch in April, and the much-anticipated single-terminal consolidation project. She also oversaw the airport’s tornado-damage recovery and major route expansion. When she retires this summer, she’ll leave the region’s next chapter in aviation on firm ground. [Read More]
DARREN JAMES
AIRPORT DIRECTOR, MIDAMERICA ST. LOUIS AIRPORT
James advises the next generation of business leaders to find a vocation they care deeply about. “Don’t be afraid to move in a new direction if you find yourself in a rut with your current vocation,” he says. “If you are passionate about what you are doing on a daily basis, leading people within the organization becomes more simplistic.” Part of the process, James says, is surrounding yourself with positive individuals. “Step away from those who expose negativity, and find someone who inspires you.” [Read More]
STEVE PARKER
PRESIDENT AND CEO, BOEING DEFENSE, SPACE & SECURITY
Born in Carlisle, England, Parker grew up watching low-flying Royal Air Force and U.S. aircraft streak across the sky, moments that sparked a lifelong career in aerospace. His first job, as an apprentice aircraft mechanic in Melbourne, Australia, taught him the discipline and teamwork that’s essential to aviation. Now leading Boeing’s defense and space division from St. Louis, Parker is navigating a pivotal moment for the company after a prolonged strike ended with a newly ratified five-year contract. Boeing announced in February that it will bring its Defense, Space and Security headquarters back to St. Louis, reversing earlier moves to Chicago and then Arlington, Virginia. [Read More]
ANTHONY RAY
VICE PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER, ST. LOUIS COMPLETIONS GULFSTREAM AEROSPACE
Gulfstream Aerospace has experienced tremendous growth in the past year, including broadening its aircraft completions operations at the St. Louis Downtown Airport and bringing more jobs to the region. “With our recent expansion, I look forward to continuing to grow our team and expanding our existing partnerships to help build the local talent pipeline,” says Ray. “We work with numerous educational partners to invest in our future workforce, and as our next-generation fleet continues to grow, so does our need for skilled and capable talent, which we have right here in St. Louis.” [Read More]
SANDRA SHORE
AIRPORT DIRECTOR, ST. LOUIS DOWNTOWN AIRPORT
Shore oversees employees and operations at the airport in St. Clair County, Illinois, where she’s also responsible for managing real estate and economic development opportunities. Shore previously worked as Quincy Regional Airport’s director, and she’s received numerous accolades, including being named the 2024-25 president of the Illinois Public Airport Association.
MIKE DECAMP
PRESIDENT AND CEO, EXPEDITION AG PARTNERS
A veteran of St. Louis’ agtech ecosystem, DeCamp last year launched Expedition Ag Partners, an investment platform advancing next-generation agricultural technologies. In 2025, Expedition Ag joined other investors in creating Confluence Genetics, which acquired the core assets of Benson Hill. As executive chairman, DeCamp is helping to guide Confluence’s focus on high-protein soybean genetics and AI-enabled breeding tools that support sustainable protein production and strengthen the region’s leadership in agricultural innovation. [Read More]
GREG HECKMAN
CEO, BUNGE
Heckman is excited about the opportunity to lead the way in sustainably feeding a growing world. With many converging trends, including increasing demand for oilseeds, renewable fuels, and more, he feels the agribusiness is uniquely positioned to create value with investors, customers, employees, and the world. “We have an unmatched global footprint, a culture of innovation, and a deep commitment to sustainability,” he says. Heckman is also proud of the St. Louis community. “People are genuinely committed to working together to build a better future for the region,” he says. [Read More]
EMILY LOHSE BUSCH
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, 39 NORTH AGTECH INNOVATION DISTRICT
It’s been said that St. Louis boasts a higher concentration of plant scientists than anywhere else in the world. That’s thanks in part to the connective work of Lohse-Busch and the team at 39 North. Last year, 39 North helped organize a Plant Science Family Reunion that drew more than 240 attendees from approximately 60 organizations. The event highlighted the region’s agtech strengths, from early-stage startups to established research institutions, and it reflected 39 North’s role as a convener for the industry.
DAN MEAGHER
PRESIDENT AND CEO, NOVUS INTERNATIONAL
The St. Louis native is in the middle of a one-year term as the board chair of the American Feed Industry Association. It’s a busy time for Meagher, who last year oversaw Novus’ major realignment that created two distinct business units, one for liquid methionine solutions and another for specialty feed ingredients. The move will help the Chesterfield-based company sharpen its focus on innovation and operational agility while positioning it to better serve livestock producers worldwide. [Read More]
BRIAN NABER
PRESIDENT OF NORTH AMERICA & AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND, BAYER CROP SCIENCE
Raised on a family farm in Minnesota, Naber brings a farmer’s perspective to his role. He’s focused on pairing the company’s history of innovation with a stronger day-to-day customer experience, ensuring farmers have the tools, insights, and support they need. “Farmers don’t receive nearly the amount of recognition and appreciation they deserve,” Naber says. “They’re taking on a tremendous amount of risk every year in the tug of war with Mother Nature, and the outcome of their work provides the food, fuel, and fiber we all need.” [Read More]
GILES OLDROYD
PRESIDENT, DONALD DANFORTH PLANT SCIENCE CENTER
Originally from West Yorkshire, England, Oldroyd became the Danforth Center’s new president in 2025. He’s been impressed with the organization’s work, particularly its successful launch of pest-resistant cowpea in Nigeria, which gives farmers a vital tool to increase productivity and food security, as well as the development of new cover crop mixes that have the potential to improve soil health and long-term sustainability in the United States. “I’ve been inspired by the remarkable impact of our work,” Oldroyd says. [Read More]
JASON GOODSON
VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER, MALLINCKRODT PHARMACEUTICALS
If Goodson could change one thing about the pharmaceutical industry, he’d dispel the myth surrounding big pharma and science. “I have worked with so many wonderful people from all different life-science companies, and the theme that runs true in almost all of them is their desire to serve patients,” he says. Goodson, who has more than 20 years of experience in financial leadership, believes that collaboration is key: “More collaboration and highlighting all the good that can come from science and innovation will only help us move forward toward those goals.” (Note: Goodson recently joined PleoPharma.)
PAUL JORJORIAN
VICE PRESIDENT OF BIOLOGICS AND SENIOR DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS, ST. LOUIS THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC
Jorjorian oversees operations at Thermo Fisher Scientific’s state-of-the-art biologics facility in St. Louis, which provides end-to-end development and manufacturing services for complex therapies. The site specializes in mammalian cell culture and commercial-scale production using single-use bioreactors up to 5,000 liters. Recent expansions exceeding $80 million have doubled capacity and added jobs, enhancing U.S. manufacturing for treatments targeting cancer, autoimmune conditions, and rare diseases.
TOM LAURITA
CEO, DANFORTH TECHNOLOGY CO.
Danforth Technology Company recently launched its third startup in three years: Spearhead Bio, which uses a plant’s own DNA to help improve crop performance, sustainability, and food security. The new company is based on technology that greatly expands the ways the industry can use gene-editing tools. “The industry is going through painful but essential growth, and St. Louis is a key player in the process,” Laurita says. [Read More]
JAMES MCCARTER
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND SENIOR MANAGING DIRECTOR, BIOGENERATOR VENTURES
BioGenerator Ventures has invested more than $50 million in St. Louis startups, funds that have helped launch more than 130 biotech companies across the region. It’s an exciting milestone for McCarter, who believes St. Louis is entering a pivotal phase in its emergence as a biotech hub, much like where Boston and San Francisco were a generation ago. “St. Louis has two key strengths for building biotechnology companies,” he says. “One is that we have a tremendous wealth of research and development ideas and human capital. Second is that the cost of doing business here is substantially less than other centers.” [Read More]
DONN RUBIN
FOUNDING PRESIDENT AND CEO, BIOSTL
Rubin credits much of his leadership approach to two formative mentors: the late Dr. William Danforth, WashU’s chancellor emeritus and BioSTL’s visionary founder, as well as John McDonnell, retired chairman of McDonnell Douglas Corp. and longtime BioSTL board chair. Rubin says they helped him realize St. Louis’ potential as a bioscience hub, and their influence continues to shape his work. “The trust that both placed in me to deliver on their vision for St. Louis has been incredibly empowering, and it inspires me every day,” says Rubin, who also serves as chairman of BioGenerator. [Read More]
JUSTIN SPERRY
VICE PRESIDENT, TRANSFORMATIONAL TECHNOLOGY AND ST. LOUIS SITE HEAD, PFIZER INC.
Sperry leads Pfizer’s Transformational Technology team and serves as R&D site head in Chesterfield, where he’s responsible for innovation strategy; chemistry, manufacturing, and controls diligence; intellectual property initiatives; and digital investments. A WashU-trained analytical chemist who holds a master of science in law degree from Northwestern University, he guides how technology and science align with business models in Pfizer’s pharmaceutical sciences division.
BRIAN ANDERSON
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, CHIEF LEGAL AND RISK OFFICER, BELDEN INC.
Anderson’s team of lawyers and paralegals handle legal affairs for Belden, a global company with $2.5 billion in annual revenue and 8,000 employees, that specializes in network infrastructure and digitization solutions. Anderson says, “I marvel at their capabilities and work ethic every day.” When he was promoted to a senior role at age 40, Anderson says he was never the most vocal person at the table, but he recognized that “I deserved to be there, and my opinion mattered.” [Read More]
CLAYTON BROWN
CEO, THE INTERNATIONAL COS.
Brown has deep roots in the family enterprise, joining in 1993 after holding roles in sales, operations, HR, purchasing, and finance; he’s had the top spot at International Food Products Corp. since 2006. Today, The International Cos. includes International Ingredient Corp., International Food Products, Green Field Solutions (added in 2020), and two logistics firms, extending reach across the full food-supply chain. The organization is known for its innovations in sustainability, waste reduction, and animal nutrition.
PHIL BROWN
PRESIDENT-PHOSPHATE SPECIALTIES SOLUTIONS, ICL GROUP
In April 2025, ICL Group cut the ribbon on a $20 million Battery Materials Innovation & Qualification Center at the company’s Carondelet campus. It’s designed to fast-track customer solutions, test new chemistries, and scale emerging technologies for market, the first facility of its kind in the U.S., the company says. ICL Group is also overseeing a half-billion-dollar expansion in the region to manufacture materials for the energy storage and electric vehicle markets.
BOB CHAPMAN
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD, BARRY-WEHMILLER
Chapman became the senior executive of Barry-Wehmiller, a global supplier of capital equipment and consulting services across a broad range of industries, in 1975, when he was 30 years old. After Chapman served 50 years at the helm, his son, Kyle, succeeded him as CEO in 2025. While keeping a hand in the business, Chapman recently completed a revised edition of his 2015 book, Everybody Matters: The Extraordinary Power of Caring for Your People Like Family. [Read More]
BRETT FLAUGHER
VICE PRESIDENT, OLIN CORPORATION/ PRESIDENT WINCHESTER AMMUNITION
A native of the Metro East, Flaugher is leading Winchester through continued growth, building a new manufacturing facility for military ammunition. The company also recently acquired White Flyer clay targets. “I’m excited about the rapid growth of the recreational shooting sports industry,” he says. “This surge in interest reflects a broader appreciation for the values of discipline, camaraderie, and tradition.” [Read More]
SEAN FLEMING
CEO, DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT INC.
Since taking over in 2010, Fleming has guided Distribution Management beyond its roots as a wholesale print distributor into e-commerce fulfillment. Two years into his tenure, he launched a third-party logistics arm that now supports manufacturers and online merchants with warehousing, platform integration, and order fulfillment. The company employs more than 450 people nationwide and operates five distribution centers equipped with automation and robotics, solidifying DM as both a long-standing distributor and a modern logistics provider.
KRISTI TACONY HUMES
CEO, TACONY CORP.
Humes has spent three decades working inside her family’s business, gaining experience across every department before becoming CEO in 2016. As the third generation to lead the company, she’s guided Tacony through shifts in consumer demand while keeping its sewing and floor-care brands central to operations. Headquartered in Fenton, the privately held firm distributes products worldwide, blending a legacy of family ownership with an eye toward modern retail and global markets.
LAL KARSANBHAI
PRESIDENT AND CEO, EMERSON
After generations in Ferguson, Emerson moved its global headquarters to Clayton last winter, affirming its long-term commitment to the St. Louis region. As the head of the multinational corporation, Karsanbhai believes in leading with purpose, acting with conviction and inspiring collaboration. “As leaders, we have the privilege of setting the tone and modeling the values we want to see across our organizations and our community,” he says. Karsanbhai, who is serving as the St. Louis Fed’s 2026 board chair, believes Emerson’s people are its prime asset, noting that every employee has a stake in the company’s mission to “drive innovation that makes the world healthier, safer, smarter, and more sustainable.” [Read More]
TRACY HENKE
DEPUTY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND COO, AMICSTL
Drawing on a distinguished career in federal government and public policy, Henke helps shape how advanced manufacturing drives growth and innovation across St. Louis. At AMICSTL, Henke is focused on aligning education, industry, research, and workforce systems to bridge equity gaps, encourage entrepreneurship, and ensure that the region’s future jobs are accessible. “Advanced manufacturing is not only driving innovation; it’s creating a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build individual and community wealth,” Henke says. [Read More]
KATHLEEN MAZZARELLA
CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT AND CEO, GRAYBAR
Graybar posted record-breaking results in the second quarter of 2025, with net sales reaching $3.37 billion, a 12.1 percent year-over-year increase, and net income climbing 25.1 percent to $138.1 million. In the first half of 2025, Graybar achieved $6.3 billion in sales and $239 million in net income, marking double-digit growth over 2024. With Mazzarella at the helm, the company is also directing a major business transformation, including upgrades to its ERP system through the Graybar Connect initiative.
JIM MCCOOL
CEO, BUNZL DISTRIBUTION NORTH AMERICA
In the first half of 2025, McCool led a strategic turnaround for Bunzl’s North American Distribution unit, restoring service levels and inventory amid operational pressures. The business shifted back toward serving local markets by empowering 14 regional teams and refining cost structures, helping to rebalance margins despite headwinds from tariffs and inflation. At the same time, the company has accelerated its own-brand launches in non-branded categories.
DAVID NOGALES
HEAD OF TECHNOLOGY STRATEGY, MILLIPORESIGMA
MilliporeSigma reinforced a partnership with WashU in July 2025, building off of nearly 90 years of collaboration. The alliance aims to accelerate joint R&D, strengthen the life-science talent pipeline and fast-track discoveries from lab to clinic. Over the past five years, Millipore-Sigma has invested more than $250 million in its St. Louis operations, including support for early-stage innovation, startup incubators, and research enablement.
JANE SAALE
PRESIDENT AND CEO, COPE PLASTICS
Saale leads Cope Plastics, a family-and woman-owned business founded in 1946, from its headquarters in Alton, Illinois. She has ensured that the company maintains a strong focus on sustainability: It recycles more than 90 percent of materials used in production, totaling 260,000-plus pounds annually in paper, metal, oil, cardboard, and electronics. Cope’s solar-powered scrap-processing facility now covers its own warehouse energy needs, and the company is continuing to expand its national footprint in plastics fabrication and distribution.
BRYAN SAYLER
PRESIDENT AND CEO, ESCO TECHNOLOGIES
Sayler led ESCO through a strong 2025, highlighted by a record-setting third quarter: Sales climbed 27 percent from the prior year to $296.3 million, with aerospace and defense revenue jumping 56 percent. ESCO reported a $1.17 billion backlog of orders and a book-to-bill ratio above 2.5, showing strong demand. Earnings also rose 25 percent, and the company raised its full-year outlook to more than $1 billion in sales.
ERIC SHELHORN
PLANT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GENERAL MOTORS
“The automotive industry never stops changing, and General Motors continues to be an innovative leader that drives this type of change,” says Shelhorn. That belief fuels his dedication to leading a plant that’s agile and adaptive. He encourages leaders in automotive and other industries to read Harvard Business Review’s On Managing Yourself: “When you can manage yourself well on a daily basis with courage and humility, it is easier to manage others,” he says. [Read More]
ROSS SHUSTER
CEO, COPELAND
Since becoming a standalone company in May 2023, Copeland has filed 430 new patents, launched 124 products and opened its new Engineering and Technology Center in Pune, India, to bolster the company’s global research and development capabilities. “What excites me most about Copeland’s future is our opportunity to tackle the growing global demand for energy with innovative and sustainable solutions,” Shuster says. “As rapid industrialization in emerging markets and the expansion of energy-intensive technologies like AI and data centers drive energy consumption to new heights, the need for smarter, more efficient systems has never been greater.” [Read More ]
KEITH STROPE
PRESIDENT AND CEO, TRICORBRAUN
It was a big year for packaging-distribution company TricorBraun, which acquired Veritiv Rigid Containers. Strope credits the smooth acquisition to collaboration between teams, saying it was “a testament to what’s possible when people unite behind a shared mission.” And though St. Louis is just the hub for a network of teams that stretches across North America, Europe and Australia, Strope recognizes the city’s “sense of community, loyalty, and strong work ethic” as values that his company shares. [Read More]
MARK WITKOWSKI
CEO, CORE & MAIN
Witkowski was promoted from CFO to CEO in March 2025, taking the helm of the specialized distributor with a focus on water, wastewater, storm drainage, and fire protection products and related services. He oversees the company’s strategic direction and has a proven track record of creating value for shareholders. Witkowski also serves as a board member of Karla Smith Behavioral Health, which supports young adults and families in overcoming mental and behavioral health challenges.
BRET BERTHOLD
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT
A mechanical engineer with an MBA from Webster University, Berthold led the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District through the recent launch of its Stormwater Capital Improvement Program. “Getting it across the finish line took persistence and partnership, and now we’re in a position to start delivering real value to our region,” he says of the project, which will reduce flooding and improve water quality. Berthold also puts his engineering skills to use in his spare time, restoring old cars and tractors. [Read More]
DAVID BURRITT
CEO, U.S. STEEL
Burritt has built a career leading large organizations through periods of change and renewal. A St. Louis native, Burritt has served as CEO of U.S. Steel since 2017, bringing decades of experience from his years at Caterpillar. During his tenure, U.S. Steel has reopened the Granite City Works mill, expanded through the acquisition of Big River Steel, and entered a new chapter under its partnership with Nippon Steel.
JOSIAH COX
FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT, CENTRAL STATES WATER RESOURCES
Since launching the St. Louis-based water utility in 2014, Cox has overseen the acquisition and turnaround of hundreds of water and wastewater systems, scaling CSWR into one of the nation’s largest investor-owned utilities. Today, it operates across 11 states. Under his leadership, the company focuses on modernizing infrastructure and building long-term operational capacity for communities it serves.
SCOTT DOYLE
PRESIDENT AND CEO, SPIRE INC.
Spire’s natural gas utilities serve almost 1.7 million customers in Alabama, Mississippi and Missouri. Doyle joined the company last year, after serving as executive vice president of utility operations at Center-Point Energy in Houston, Texas. A civil engineering graduate of Texas A&M University, he’s on the board of directors of Greater St. Louis Inc., the St. Louis Regional Business Council, the Southern Gas Association, and the American Gas Association.
JIM GRECH
PRESIDENT AND CEO, PEABODY ENERGY
Grech is guiding Peabody through a period of financial strength and operational growth. In the second quarter of 2025, the company boosted production in U.S. coal operations, while maintaining solid margins in overseas markets. Peabody used strong cash flow to reduce debt and return money to investors through a dividend, moves that highlight stability and shareholder value as the global energy sector continues to shift.
DEKO DEVINS
PRESIDENT AND CEO, AZIMUTH ENERGY
When Devins joined St. Louis-based Azimuth Energy in 2016, he was working hands-on as an operations technician. Seven years later, he stepped into the role of president. Along the way, Devins moved through engineering, project management and operations, gaining a rare, end-to-end view of how clean-energy projects actually get built. Today, he leads Azimuth’s solar, battery storage, and microgrid work across the U.S.and Caribbean, helping turn distributed energy from an emerging idea into real infrastructure for businesses and institutions.
REBECCA LOSLI
PRESIDENT, ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER
Illinois American Water’s more than 600 employees serve about 1.4 million customers in 149 water and wastewater systems. Facing challenges of aging water systems, the company is making necessary infrastructure investments while continuing to provide clean, safe service. Losli joined IAW in 2022, after being the vice president of engineering and business development for Missouri American Water. Losli is also the 2025-26 president of the Engineers Club of St. Louis.
MARTIN J. LYONS JR.
CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT AND CEO, AMEREN
According to Ameren, a recent independent study conducted by HR&A Advisors found the company’s operations in Missouri and Illinois generate more than $20 billion in annual economic output, supporting 55,000 jobs and nearly $1 billion in state and local tax revenue. Lyons is guiding the company through substantial infrastructure investments, new electric rates in Missouri and disciplined cost management.
MATT SCHRIMPF
PRESIDENT, PIASA ENTERPRISES INC.
Nearly a century after it was founded as a single Alton gas station, Piasa Enterprises has become a regional supplier of petroleum and renewable fuels. Schrimpf is a fourth-generation leader who started in an official role in 1995, after years of hands-on work in nearly every corner of the business. Schrimpf also oversees The Sports Academy, an indoor athletic facility in Glen Carbon, Illinois, that offers space for soccer, football, kickball, and other sports.
RICH SVINDLAND
PRESIDENT, MISSOURI AMERICAN WATER
In July 2025, Svindland joined a cohort of American Water state presidents and senior executives to meet with members of Congress in Washington, D.C. The group sought to strengthen relationships with policymakers and discuss potential solutions to vital water and wastewater infrastructure needs across the nation. “It is important to elevate the urgent need for continued investment in aging water and wastewater systems and to highlight the policies to assist with this,” he says.
DOUG TRACY
PRESIDENT AND CEO, CUIVRE RIVER ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Cuivre River Electric Cooperative’s president and CEO has led the member-owned utility through a period of heightened visibility since 2017, including securing service for an $800 million meatpacking facility projected to generate $1 billion annually. Tracy also launched Cuivre Cares, empowering employees to volunteer across the service territory. His leadership philosophy reflects that momentum: “Dream big and don’t limit yourself. Set goals that are big and work hard to achieve them, even when obstacles arise.”
JOE WANDERSEE
GENERAL MANAGER, REPUBLIC SERVICES
Wandersee has built his career at Republic Services, advancing through operations leadership before becoming general manager for the company’s St. Louis region in 2024. The organization is now making a significant local investment: a 105,000-square-foot recycling center planned for Bridgeton, expected to open in 2027 and serve an estimated 3 million people across greater St. Louis. The project reflects how recycling infrastructure in the region is evolving, with larger facilities and more advanced systems required to handle growing demand. [Read More]
DAN BIPPEN
OWNER AND CEO, KUNA FOODSERVICE
For more than a century, Kuna has been a leader in the region’s food distribution sector, and for almost half of that time, Bippen has been in the company’s driver’s seat. Uncompromising quality and top-notch customer service may be what attracts and keeps customers, but Kuna’s esteemed position in the community comes from Bippen’s commitment to building relationships while remaining agile. “Our warehouse employees, frontline managers and drivers are the face of our customer service,” Bippen says. “Their contributions are essential to the growth of our business and the strength of our brand.” [Read More]
MATT BYNUM
GENERAL MANAGER, HEARTLAND COCA-COLA BOTTLING CO.
Bynum leads the St. Louis division of a company that bottles and distributes Coca-Cola products and serves millions of customers across Missouri, Kansas and parts of Illinois. Since 2018, he’s guided operations during a period of growth and investment in new facilities, fleet upgrades, and workforce development. After starting with the Coca-Cola network in 1996, Bynum has also overseen sales in Columbia, Sedalia, and St. Joseph.
GREG DIERBERG
PRESIDENT AND CEO, DIERBERGS MARKETS
Dierberg is steering the family business, which now encompasses more than 3,500 employees across 27 stores, through an aggressive expansion phase while being mindful of its roots. In 2025, the company broke ground on a 75,000-square-foot store in University City’s Market at Olive and a 73,000-square-foot shop in St. Charles. Both are slated to open this year and will anchor mixed-use developments.
LARRY LEE
PRESIDENT AND CEO, ANDY’S SEASONING
Lee leads Andy’s Seasoning from its longtime St. Louis home, where the family company has quietly built its business from basement recipes into a regional flavor-maker. Operating since 1981, Andy’s continues to grow its retail and commercial distribution, serving customers through grocery aisles and foodservice channels across multiple states.
MATT MCCLELLAND
CEO AND EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, PRAIRIE FARMS DAIRY
McClelland is guiding a major expansion of Prairie Farms’ Edwardsville headquarters, where a 42,000-square-foot, three-story addition is under construction. The project is part of the cooperative’s strategy to streamline operations and support long-term growth throughout its national network. Once complete, the new facility will provide space for company-wide meetings, advanced training programs, and improved collaboration among Prairie Farms’ nearly 8,000 employees.
SUE MCCOLLUM
CEO AND OWNER, EAGLE BRANDS SALES/ DOUBLE EAGLE DISTRIBUTING
After her husband’s unexpected passing in 2012, McCollum took the helm of her family-controlled beverage business and rose to become one of the first women CEOs in her industry. “Although there are more women in the wine, spirits, and beer business than ever before, the industry still needs more women, particularly in senior sales and operations management roles,” she says. “The industry as a whole would benefit by more diversity overall, as its makeup doesn’t adequately reflect the diversity of its consumers.” [Read More]
TODD SCHNUCK
CHAIRMAN AND CEO, SCHNUCK MARKETS
Last year, Schnuck Markets was named a U.S. Best Managed Company for the fourth consecutive year, reflecting its strong strategy, execution, culture, and governance. The company operates 114 stores across Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin, and has nearly 12,000 employees. Schnucks is also planning a 68,000-square-foot replacement store in Creve Coeur as part of the mixed-use Olia Village development.
JACK ÒTRIPÓ STRAUB III
PRESIDENT AND CEO, STRAUB’S
More than a century ago, Straub III’s great-grandfather opened the first Straub’s Fine Grocers in Webster Groves, a small operation where its founder made it a point to know customers by name. Much has changed in the grocery business since those days of horse-and-buggy delivery, yet the store retains its guest-focused ethos. Through some trial and error, Straub III has figured out how to balance growing the brand without straying from its independent, high-quality mission, or its chicken salad recipe.
KYLE TOPPING
SENIOR GENERAL MANAGER, ST. LOUIS BREWERY ANHEUSER-BUSCH
Before he was tapped to run A-B’s St. Louis brewery, Topping began his career as a reliability manager, or, as he describes it, a “maintenance manager for the brewery.” As he’s grown with the company, and the company has grown around him, Topping makes sure to never lose sight that people are the organization’s heart, soul and driving force. That’s why he’s proud to be part of the brewery’s initiatives that center on workers, from investments in training and partnerships with area trade schools to a campaign honoring the 65,000 Americans behind the production and delivery of A-B’s beer. “Do not forget the value of people,” he says. “People are the foundation of every great idea and business.” [Read More]
DICK TRACY
CEO, DOT FOODS
Tracy began a full-time role at Dot Foods in 1991 and became its CEO in 2023, succeeding his older brother, Joe. Under Tracy’s leadership, the company is leaning into digital transformation: It partnered with Choco to offer AI-powered e-commerce and order-management tools that help distributor customers simplify ordering while broadening their reach. A third-generation leader in the family business, Tracy continues to build on a legacy of innovation and trusted partnerships.
ROBERT VITALE
PRESIDENT AND CEO, POST HOLDINGS
The St. Louis-based consumer-packaged goods company took control of 8th Avenue Food & Provisions last summer, after agreeing to an $880 million deal that extinguished 8th Avenue’s debt, brought the manufacturing of Peter Pan peanut butter in-house, and, with the acquisition of 8th Avenue’s Ronzoni pasta brand, expanded Post’s reach into the dry pasta market. [Read More]
TOM WELGE
PRESIDENT AND CEO, GILSTER-MARY LEE CORP.
Welge began his career at his family’s private-label food company by sweeping the feed mill floors, where he learned his family’s 130-year-old business legacy from his father. Today, he balances respect for the company’s history with opportunities for growth and innovation. “In a family business as old as ours, there is a tremendous amount of history, tradition and success that we recognize and honor,” he says. “At the same time, we have to be willing to change the business, sometimes dramatically and be confident in our decisions to ensure the business continues and grows.” [Read More]
ZEKITA ARMSTRONG
CHAIR AND CEO, GATEWAY GLOBAL AMERICAN YOUTH AND BUSINESS ALLIANCE ACADEMIES INC.
Armstrong-Asuquo has positioned Gateway Global to equip under-resourced St. Louis high school students with geospatial and data-tech skills. To date, the program has trained more than 100 students. In 2024, the organization opened a 28,000-square-foot training center and apprenticeship hub in a renovated Hyde Park school, offering tuition-free semester courses with stipends and strong community partnerships.
SIMON BAILEY
CEO, T-KARTOR USA
Bailey has watched geospatial technology evolve from paper maps to AI-powered platforms, and he now leads T-Kartor’s U.S. operations from St. Louis. The firm develops mapping, wayfinding, and data-management solutions for clients, ranging from transit systems to the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. With projects that improve aviation safety, public safety, and urban planning, Bailey emphasizes how the industry is reshaping daily life, and he extends that passion locally, promoting STEM and geospatial education as a Saint Louis Science Center trustee.
JAMES BARBIERI
CO-FOUNDER, WINGXPAND
Barbieri is building a new category of American-made autonomous aircraft designed for long-range missions where speed and insight matter most. His St. Louis-based aerospace startup produces expandable fixed-wing drones that deploy from a backpack and use onboard, real-time AI to detect, and alert on conditions in the field. WingXpand has quickly gained traction, beating out more than 750 competitors to win a U.S. Army xTechSearch award and securing more than $2 million in early military and civilian contracts.
BILL CANIANO
WEST EXECUTIVE, NATIONAL GEOSPATIAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY
Last fall, Caniano helped usher his department into a new era, when the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency opened its $1.75 billion western headquarters in North City. He says the relocation is intended not only to modernize the NGA’s facilities but also to deepen the agency’s engagement with the St. Louis region through partnerships with universities and the community.
ANDY DEARING
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND REGIONAL MANAGER, BOWMAN
Dearing played a role in the region’s cleanup following last May’s tornado, mobilizing geospatial resources to capture and share high-resolution aerial imagery that helped homeowners and officials assess storm damage quickly and accurately. When it comes to advising the region’s next generation of leaders, Dearing believes connections are vital. “Get out there and actively connect with fellow founders, entrepreneurs, and community leaders,” he says. “While your challenges may feel unique to your organization, chances are others have faced similar hurdles and can offer valuable perspectives and solutions.” [Read More]
MIKE GOURLEY
SENIOR DIRECTOR, VANTOR
Formerly known as Maxar, the company rebranded as Vantor last fall as it expanded its focus on spatial intelligence solutions used across defense, government and commercial sectors. The rebrand marked a strategic push to productize its core operational geospatial technology. A strategic lead within Vantor’s St. Louis team, Gourley is an essential link between the company and the region’s growing geospatial community. He’s helping align Vantor’s commercial innovation with the NGA-anchored ecosystem locally.
DAN HAAG
ST. LOUIS REGIONAL MANAGER, ESRI
When an EF3 tornado struck St. Louis last May, Haag led Esri’s rapid geospatial deployment, helping to map structural damage and deliver dashboard insights so that city officials could make urgent recovery decisions. “When you talk about post-disaster information, you see that, obviously, timing is very important,” he told SLM. “Being able to have that evidence right there, a picture really is worth a thousand words, or is worth thousands and thousands of dollars, being able to help support the rebuild process.”
ELLIOTT KELLNER
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, TAYLOR GEOSPATIAL
In August 2025, TGI announced its launch as an independent nonprofit, marking an exciting new chapter for the geospatial research firm, which was originally incubated at Saint Louis University. Now, Kellner and company hope to lead the nonprofit into the future by investing in the next generation of industry talent through bold research initiatives and public-private partnerships.
MARK MUNSELL
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GEOSTL
The former National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency official was chosen as the lead for Greater St. Louis Inc.’s GeoSTL initiative, which aims to advance geospatial technology across the region. Over the years, Munsell has won numerous accolades for his efforts, including a Department of Commerce Bronze Medal, the Presidential Rank Award, and a three-time Distinguished Civilian Service Medal.
BRAD CORWIN
DIRECTOR OF AI AND DATA OPERATIONS, BOOZ ALLEN HAMILTON
Corwin works at the point where data, AI and national security meet. He has spent more than a decade helping the Department of Defense turn complex, fragmented data into usable, mission-ready systems. Based in St. Louis, he leads large-scale teams building AI infrastructure and advancing data mesh architectures designed to give defense leaders faster, clearer decision-making power in an increasingly data-driven battlefield.
ANDREW SEGAL
ST. LOUIS AI CENTER LEAD, SCALE AI
Segal is proud to be part of a company that helps accelerate the federal government’s adoption of technologies alongside partners in the St. Louis region. Part of his success comes from staying curious and being willing to take risks. “My own path has taken me around the world, supporting high-stakes missions in and outside the military and working with remarkable people,” he says. “You never know how one experience will open a door to the next, or how it might ultimately contribute to something bigger than yourself.” [Read More]
JESSE WINTERS
PRESIDENT AND CEO, T-REX
In just over a year at the helm of the downtown innovation center, Winters has made a sizable impact. T-REX has launched new programs designed to elevate the region as a national leader in entrepreneurship and advanced technology, including a youth entrepreneurship initiative, geospatial workforce development efforts and hands-on founder-support programs designed to help entrepreneurs navigate the early stages of scaling their businesses. “These efforts are expanding economic opportunity, supporting underrepresented founders, and positioning St. Louis as a bold, inclusive hub for tech-driven growth,” Winters says. [Read More]
MARY LAMIE
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, MULTIMODAL ENTERPRISES, ST. LOUIS REGIONAL FREIGHTWAY ENTERPRISE AT BI-STATE DEVELOPMENT
Over the past year, Lamie helped guide the Freightway’s role in delivering $560 million in completed projects and securing more than $2.6 billion toward the region’s 2026 infrastructure pipeline. One of its most significant projects is a stretch of Interstate 70 from Warren County to Wentzville, a $634 million undertaking that stands as the largest single project in MoDOT’s history; it’s part of a broader effort to improve I-70 from Warrenton to the Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge.
TIM LUCHINI
CEO, INTRAMOTEV
Through Luchini’s leadership, Intramotev is steering the shift toward autonomous, battery-electric freight rail. Some big news came last fall for the six-year-old company: It signed its first railroad operator agreement with Watco, which will deploy Intramotev’s TugVolt cars at its Wood River terminal, where it will handle commodities such as steel and lumber. Luchini earned a doctorate in mechanical engineering from Michigan State University and teaches engineering courses as an adjunct professor at WashU.
ALAINA MACIA
PRESIDENT AND CEO, MTM HEALTH
Macia leads MTM Health, a provider of non-emergency medical transportation, social determinants of health, and mobile-integrated health solutions. She is proud of initiatives such as Wanda, a transportation service designed to support older adults and people with disabilities by providing safe, reliable, and affordable rides to a variety of locations. “Mobility is a critical part of healthy aging and community connection,” she says. “Wanda helps fill that gap, empowering individuals to maintain independence and stay engaged in their communities.” [Read More]
JIM SIMON
PRESIDENT, TRINITY LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS
Leading Fenton-based Trinity Logistics Solutions for more than a decade, Simon has built the firm into a third-party logistics partner for manufacturers and distributors across the region. The non-asset company focuses on helping clients strengthen transportation performance through data-driven process design, freight, and modal optimization and responsive service models.
CHRISSY TAYLOR
PRESIDENT AND CEO, ENTERPRISE MOBILITY
Taylor held 17 different positions over 20 years before becoming Enterprise Mobility’s president and CEO in 2020. She fosters a promote-from-within culture, elevating more than 20,000 employees in 2025 while advancing the adoption of new technologies. A co-owner of St. Louis CITY SC, she’s also involved with the Crawford Taylor Foundation, Commerce Bancshares, and St. Louis Children’s Hospital Campaign Cabinet, among other organizations. [Read More]
ARTUR WAGRODZKI
OWNER, ARTUR EXPRESS
A native of Poland, Wagrodzki’s eponymous trucking company is integrating AI into every aspect of its operations. And although the trucking sector has faced challenges of decreasing freight rates, and increasing expenses at the national level, Wagrodzki notes that St. Louis’ central location makes it an ideal logistics hub, given its access to major interstates, rail and river transportation. “That connectivity is a huge advantage for companies like ours,” he says. Wagrodzki also applauds the drivers who “keep America moving.” [Read More]
MARK LAVIGNE
PRESIDENT AND CEO, ENERGIZER HOLDINGS
LaVigne has powered the battery giant since 2021, capping a 15-year rise through the company’s leadership ranks. A crucial figure in the company’s 2015 spinoff from its former parent company, LaVigne previously served as chief operating officer, executive vice president, and general counsel. Before joining Energizer in 2010, he was a partner at Bryan Cave, advising on strategic acquisitions.
NINA LEIGH KRUEGER
CEO, NESTL PURINA PETCARE NORTH AMERICA
Krueger began her journey with Purina as an intern more than 30 years ago and has since worked her way to the top. Such loyalty is a testament to the culture found within the Purina community, which has more than 11,000 associates nationwide. St. Louis has been its headquarters for more than 130 years. “Developing big, audacious goals and ambitions is the only way to drive change that will move our community forward,” Krueger says. [Read More]
RON OSTROWSKI
PRESIDENT AND CEO, RAWLINGS SPORTING GOODS CO.
Last January, Ostrowski officially added CEO to his existing role as president, after joining Rawlings in 2020 as CFO. The company’s recently opened, interactive flagship space, showcasing gloves, memorabilia, batting simulators, and more, continues to attract baseball fans to Westport Plaza. In September, Rawlings acquired Tanner Tees, lengthening its already impressive reach into elite baseball training gear.
DANIEL PALOP RABAT
PLANT MANAGER, PROCTER & GAMBLE
Under Rabat, the company is doubling down on its commitment to the region. In 2024, the multinational consumer goods company invested $180 million to expand its North City facility and create 100 new jobs in the region, where it produces household products such as Cascade, Mr. Clean, Swiffer, and Febreze. Next year will mark a century since P&G opened its first plant in St. Louis.
SHARON PRICE JOHN
CEO, BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP
In a heavily digitized world, Price John knows the importance of reconnecting with true play. In addition to a decade running Build-A-Bear, she is chairperson of the Toy Association and supports initiatives such as The Genius of Play, which helps parents promote creative recreation. One thing that Price John doesn’t play around with, however, is results: In 2025, Build-A-Bear hit an all-time fiscal high in revenue and now has a presence in 32 countries. [Read More]
JAY SCHMIDT
PRESIDENT AND CEO, CALERES
Leading the Clayton-based footwear company since 2023, Schmidt has guided Caleres through evolving consumer, retail and supply-chain shifts. Last August, Caleres closed on an acquisition of Stuart Weitzman for approximately $120 million, bringing the luxury brand into a growing portfolio that already includes brands such as Allen Edmonds and Famous Footwear. The move extends Caleres’ reach across both premium and value markets, and it reflects Schmidt’s focus on balanced growth, brand diversity, and understanding the evolving demands of customers.
