Kristie Williams

Leading With Intention

In the ever-evolving world of banking, leadership is not merely a title but a journey marked by continuous learning, adaptability and a commitment to fostering growth within teams and communities.  As someone who embarked on a banking career starting out of high school 27 years ago, I have experienced the transformative power of effective leadership. Pam Yancey, my mentor and close friend, played a pivotal role in shaping my journey from a novice in the industry to my current position as the Regional Retail Banking Manager with The Bank of Missouri. Yancey’s mentorship instilled in me a profound sense of responsibility to pay forward the opportunities I was given.  

Banking, I believe, has the power to take anyone anywhere, and it’s my mission to guide and inspire new bankers in the same way I was mentored.  

Leadership Essentials

Being a good leader requires unwavering confidence in one’s abilities and a belief in the unique contributions each team member brings to the table. Understanding the needs of the team, clients and the organization is essential, coupled with the daily displays of empathy in interactions. The banking industry is dynamic. Leaders must embrace change by remaining open to learning and adapting. Confidence, empathy and adaptability are the cornerstones of effective leadership.

Leadership Style and Challenges

I consider myself an intentional leader, committed to transparency and leading by example. The key to successful leadership lies in managing teams the way I would want to be managed.  

Although women do have more of a presence in business than in years past, there is still a lack of representation in senior leadership roles, which can make it difficult for aspiring female leaders to find role models or mentors. That’s why it’s important to be a mentor and cultivate women who aspire to lead. The Bank of Missouri works hard to empower women in all areas of the bank and there are many female leaders on the executive team. This gives us the ability to serve as female mentors to up-and-coming leaders within our organization. 

Giving Back to the Community

I am currently working with a local organization, Elevate Branson to help educate and partner with the underserved. The past few months we have provided financial literacy education, and it has been amazing seeing the impact this knowledge has on real lives. It goes back to being a mentor and investing in people that are not only in our organizations, but also within our communities. 

Advice for Aspiring Leaders

Leadership is a journey, not a destination or a title.  It requires ongoing self-improvement and learning.  

• Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

• Don’t be afraid to advocate for what you believe in.

• Own your mistakes and learn from them.

• Never stop learning. This may be the most important one.  Moving from high school to banking, my commitment to both education and career advancement became evident. I successfully earned a bachelor’s degree in business and later completed my master’s in business administration, marking significant milestones in my journey. 

Leadership Legacy

Ultimately, I aspire to be remembered as an intentional leader who inspired others and remained passionate about the work. Creating opportunities for others to succeed in banking and witnessing their accomplishments stands out as one of my greatest successes.