2025 Trusted Advisers: Kami Bailey

Kami Bailey is a strategic, proactive adviser for her clients.

As a partner at The Whitlock Co LLP, she specializes in assisting individuals and small businesses as they navigate tax compliance, make sound financial decisions and plan for growth and transitions.

“I’m often the person they call when they’re facing uncertainty and need someone who will listen, understand their situation and help them move forward with confidence,” she says. “Whether I’m working with clients or colleagues, my approach is the same: Help people feel supported and equipped to make their best decisions.”

Bailey completed undergraduate and graduate degrees in accounting from Missouri State University and became a certified public accountant in 2015.

She joined The Whitlock Co. in 2013 and became a partner in 2023 at the age of 32. In addition to accounting and tax advising, she leads the firm’s training and development strategy planning and created its internal coaching program.

“Kami is one of the most respected members of The Whitlock Co. team,” says Joshua Beaird, partner and CEO. “Her contributions include deeply understanding our clients to serve them better, community involvement to expand her impact and coaching the next generation of talent so they are empowered to build trust with clients.”

Although Bailey provides several types of advising, she says engaging in year-round tax work is foundational to her clients’ financial well-being, resulting in some clients saving six figures come tax season.

“Whether preparing individual returns, handling corporate filings or developing multi-year strategies, I’m always connecting technical work to the bigger picture,” she says. “I’ve helped clients shift from reactive to proactive, building tax-smart strategies that reduce surprises and support sustainable growth.”

In 2024, Bailey was selected as one of 18 emerging leaders for Allinial Global’s national, inaugural FutureGen Think Tank. She is a graduate of Leadership Springfield’s Class 41 and serves on the organization’s Rosie Committee that supports women in business. She has been involved with Harmony House in several capacities through the years, including as a board member.

“I care deeply about leadership, development and helping people grow,” she says. “Whether it’s a client navigating complex decisions, a colleague building their career or a community member finding their voice, I show up with intention and follow through with results.”