2024 Men of the Year: Michael Smith

In 2018, Michael Smith took a chance and started a company. It’s worked out well.

Co-founded by Smith, Next Level Solutions has grown from a two-person operation to a firm with more than 300 employees in four locations.

“We set out to create a place and an environment that was different from other businesses in our industry,” says Smith, NLS’ chief operating officer. “We wanted a place where people matter, a place where giving back was just as important as earning. Looking back, I think it really amazed me what our entire organization has been able to accomplish.”

NLS offers software services to property and casualty insurance carriers. It has made repeat appearances on Springfield Business Journal’s Dynamic Dozen, which recognizes the fastest-growing companies in the Ozarks. In 2022, SBJ’s Dynamic Dozen also honored Smith as a top chief operating officer. Last year, NLS made the Inc. 5000.

Smith says he hasn’t had many jobs in his career, but he has made each one count, working to develop skill sets that have served as a foundation to run a successful business and allowed him to devote time to important causes.

“I will never ask someone to do something that I haven’t either already done myself or that I won’t learn to do,” he says. “No job is too small. I’ll be there for anyone that needs my help, regardless of the ask. My wife and I have helped people make rent, donated clothes to families, allowed people to do things they never thought they would have been able to do. We have a passion for helping others. As long as I can, I always want to be a leader who leads, not a boss who bosses.”

Ellen Caldwell says that’s true. NLS’ chief financial officer has worked with Smith for four years.

“His growth as a leader and executive during that time has been impressive and fun to watch and be a part of,” she says. “But even beyond that, Michael’s dedication to his community and causes that impact it makes him truly stand out.”

Because Smith’s family has been affected by cancer, he is a staunch supporter of efforts to combat the disease.

“Due to Michael’s thought leadership and his strong desire to fill this need for his community, ShoreUp Foundation was formed and just finished its first full year in operation, helping dozens of local cancer warriors and their families be encouraged to continue to fight,” Caldwell says. “Michael serves as an adviser to the board and actively participates in its efforts.”

Smith was already involved with the American Cancer Society’s Men Wear Pink, for which men wear the color throughout October during Breast Cancer Awareness month and enlist personal and professional networks to raise money. Smith is a prolific fundraiser and has inspired NLS employees to participate in cancer-fighting efforts. He is on the board of ACS’ southwest Missouri office.

“Despite the professional successes he has personally enjoyed, he remains humble and grateful for where he is, and he seeks to use what he has to improve the lives of others,” Caldwell says.