2007 Most Influential Women Honoree: Kimberly Hamm

Kimberly S. Hamm is most proud of her ability to balance a successful career as a partner with accounting firm BKD LLP with her home life as a wife and mother to three children. Hamm graduated magna cum laude from Drury University in 1986 and has been with BKD for 21 years – and as a partner for nine years.

She oversees recruiting for BKD’s southern Missouri practice unit and is director of that unit’s real estate industry team.

She also co-owns and operates a small business, Instant Imprints, with her husband, David, and other partners.

Her responsibilities offer opportunities to influence the success of others.

“(At BKD), I have served as mentor (and) coach to many staff and accountants,” Hamm said. “This role serves as a support mechanism to help people be proactive in defining their career path and helps them evaluate where opportunities for advancement may be. I like to be involved in teaching and training newer staff and am truly interested in seeing them have successful careers."

Hamm often speaks to students on college campuses and enjoys her work in the recruiting process.

She’s also involved in the community, working with the Girl Scouts of Dogwood Trails Council and the advisory board for Drury University’s Students in Free Enterprise. Hamm has worked with the Discovery Center, Leadership Springfield, the Junior League of Springfield and the United Way of the Ozarks.

In 1996, the Association of Government Accountants awarded Hamm certified government financial manager designation. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Missouri Society of Certified Public Accountants.

“I appreciate the opportunities I’ve had to function in a leadership role during my professional career,” Hamm said. “I like to participate in community events and encourage our younger staff to do the same. One of my most enriching activities was participating in a Habitat for Humanity build. It was the first all-woman build in Springfield, something I will never forget.”

One-on-one with Kimberly Hamm

What advice do you have for young women preparing to enter the work force?

There are many opportunities for young women to succeed in today’s business world. You should believe in yourself and what you have to offer. Don’t set limits on your potential. Meet challenges head-on, be respectful of others, and be loyal to the company you represent.

Beyond the Golden Rule, what philosophy guides you?

Anything worth doing is worth doing right. Take pride in what you do, be the best you can, and remember that first impressions are important, so make a good one.

What’s something about you that most people don’t know?

When I was younger, I used to show and raise Arabian horses. It was a great sport that our whole family enjoyed, and one that allowed us to spend a lot of time together. It taught me how to win – and lose – gracefully.

Please tell us about your family.

I have a wonderful husband, David, and three children: Alex, 6, and twin girls, Chloe and Lauren, 5. We enjoy swimming, going to the park, reading and traveling together.

Information accurate at the time of the honor.