YOUR BUSINESS AUTHORITY
Springfield, MO
YOUR BUSINESS AUTHORITY
Springfield, MO
With a 32-year career in banking, Dan Derges found his formula for success. Now, he’s applying that formula to help others on a personal level and by building more successful nonprofits.
Community president for Mid-Missouri Bank since 2001, Derges describes his management style as hands-on as he works to reward and recognize employees at all levels of the operation.
“I endeavor to see the best in others and encourage those I encounter to take calculated risks – never let the fear of failure stymie you from making important decisions that will be beneficial in their lives,” he says.
Derges has led several institutions through major changes. At Mid-Missouri Bank, he guided the expansion to four Springfield branches from just one and grew loans to $120 million from $20 million. The bank’s newest branch is a $1.7 million building at 5419 S. Campbell Ave., featuring a revamped concept with personal banker desks instead of a teller line.
Bill Dunton, managing partner at Abacus CPAs LLC, says Derges maintains his personal and business accounts because of the clear dedication he has to clients’ best interests.
“He is one of the most committed and highly motivated individuals that I have had the privilege of working with,” Dunton says. “His positive attitude is contagious.”
Before joining Mid-Missouri, Derges was a vice president at The Bank and The Signature Bank through mergers that culminated with a final merger into BancorpSouth Inc. (NYSE: BXS).
Prior to his time in the banking industry, Derges earned his MBA from University of Missouri with the aid of the four-year Evans Scholarship, which he now helps continue.
“I have strived to emulate and encourage others to exercise integrity, strong work ethic, perseverance and charity in their lives to produce personal fulfillment,” he says.
Derges tries to apply this leadership experience to help others, by volunteering for several local charities, especially those serving the economically disadvantaged and most vulnerable youth in the community. He currently is board president of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks, overseeing a $1 million budget.
“I have witnessed firsthand how BBBSO strives to make life-changing friendships for children from troubled homes,” he says. “It has a proven track record providing mentors for youth.”
His work does not end there. Derges also is active on the Court Appointed Special Advocates of Southwest Missouri board, helping abused children in the foster care system.
“My strength in business development and fundraising helped the organization increase its reach in southwest Missouri,” he says. “CASA has changed countless lives, especially teenage foster children trying to become productive adults.”
Derges further expands his civic service as a board member of Lift Up Springfield, a 501(c)3 started by his wife Tricia, which in the past two years provided medicine and dental care to 7,000 people experiencing poverty in five states.
“I will never forget meeting a man that was so excited to be getting dental care,” he says. “He said the clinic saved him from pulling several teeth out in his pick-up truck.”
Moseley’s Discount Office Products was purchased; Side Chick opened in Branson; and the Springfield franchise store of NoBaked Cookie Dough changed ownership.
