There is a lot to appreciate about living in the Ozarks. From our tree-covered rolling hills and family-friendly atmosphere to our numerous Andy’s Frozen Custard locations, southwest Missouri ranks as a choice place to live in my book. That mindset is further bolstered by the exceptional businesses that call this area home.
Springfield Business Journal’s Choice Employers awards aim to honor those companies. While most companies offer standard benefits such as 401(k) plans, health insurance and paid time off, it’s the not-so-standard perks that make these 12 companies choice places to work.
Many of this year’s winners offer extra incentives for wellness, such as Ollis & Co., whose employee wellness program is the cream of the employee benefits crop. The program includes 30 minutes of company time each week to work out; an onsite wellness facility and yoga studio; $250 annually to be spent on preventative wellness; a reduction in insurance premiums when requirements are met; and arguably the best part, a 15 minute recess on Friday afternoons. Other companies such as GeoEngineers Inc. recently began offering a $20 monthly subsidy for employees who ride their bikes to work at least three days per week.
It almost goes without saying I’m already jealous of the break room foosball table at UMB Bank.
Southwest Missouri’s workforce is a special group of people as well. For the second year, SBJ honored nine individuals who demonstrate leadership and skill inside and outside of the workplace. Chosen by an independent panel of judges, individuals were honored in the categories of Community Involvement Champion, Human Resources Professional and Employee of the Year.
Add it all up, and the Ozarks is getting better by the minute.[[In-content Ad]]
April 7 was the official opening day for Mexican-Italian fusion restaurant Show Me Chuy after a soft launch that started March 31; marketing agency AdZen debuted; and the Almighty Sando Shop opened a brick-and-mortar space.
