For BJ Richardson, managing attorney at The Courtney Law Firm PC, leadership means bringing people together to achieve results. "Since joining the firm in January 2004, I have been placed in charge of all daily operations of the law practice, from client meetings to research and the writing of court pleadings," he says. "I directly supervise and manage the two distinct departments of the firm, estate planning and estate administration."
As president of the Springfield Business Connection, a chapter of Business Networking International, Richardson works to create synergies.
"People often travel in the same circles, and my leadership has been to bring these people together," he says.
And, he says, the results of his work continue to set records. Under Richardson's leadership, the members of Springfield Business Connection achieved sales of almost $8 million in its first five months.
"I try to lead by example," Richardson says. "The focus of our group is to develop business leads and referrals for the members of our chapter. We have one of the most successful chapters in the country, which is built on the principles of honesty, value, professionalism and effectiveness." Richardson holds a bachelor's degree in business management from Buena Vista University in Iowa, and he earned his juris doctor degree from St. Louis University. Richardson also holds a master of law degree in taxation from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. An ongoing passion for Richardson is charitable giving, and his career as a tax attorney focuses on estate planning. "I have encouraged my clients to either establish or contribute significant gifts to charitable organizations," Richardson says.
He recently helped Cole and Heidi Hamels establish The Hamels Foundation, which provides relief to children orphaned by the AIDS epidemic in Africa. He was subsequently asked to serve on the foundation's board of directors and is now secretary and treasurer of the organization.
"Our efforts are global in scope, but the results are felt by the local children so much in need of care," he says.
As an active member of the board of Sunrise Rotary, Richardson has helped to organize several charitable events over the last five years.
"My focus has been to bring in a broad cross-section of the Springfield community to contribute and participate in these events," he explains. "The aim is not just to raise money at a given event; it is to bring awareness to the charities we are supporting."
His goal, he adds, is to "leave a lasting impression on our contributors so that the charities we support continue to benefit the many people that depend on them."
This installment of Springfield Business Journal’s Architects & Engineers Project Report showcases 26 endeavors by area design and engineering professionals.
