2023 40 Under 40: Hailey Kolstad

Who changes careers in the middle of a global pandemic and huge uncertainties? Hailey Kolstad did. She says the move has paid off.

She went from managing a dental office to the office assistant for insurance software firm Next Level Solutions. That job was a stepping stone to her role as global workplace and public relations manager for the 250-employee company with offshore offices.

Along the way, she’s developed an onboarding program for new staff and built out two departments. Kolstad, 29, also keeps an eye on community needs and this year introduced the company to Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks’ mentorship program. Seven employees quickly signed up.

“I stand firm on the faith that every single one of these kids will be successful in all they do in life because of the relationships they are building with our stellar employees,” she says. “These kids are the future of 417.”

Your first job? Spring Creek Tea Room in Ozark as a hostess. I owe so much to Brenda and Kerry. They played such a large role in making me into the worker I am today.

Best productivity hack? Anytime I don’t want to start something, I have an internal conversation: “OK, count to five, and then go.”

Your most treasured possession? My wedding ring. It was my mimi’s ring and I have admired it since I was a kid. After she passed, it was given to me to use for my own wedding. She was my favorite person.