CEO Spotlight: Jena Holtberg-Benge, General Manager at John Deere Reman (Sponsored Content)

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Jena Holtberg-Benge, General Manager at John Deere Reman

Get to know one of the region’s top business executives and what makes them tick in work and life.

Q: What makes SGF unique to you?

A: The community engagement. People are passionate about the area, about their businesses and about the future of Springfield. The involvement in the Forward SGF process is a great example. The diversity of businesses, big and small, fascinates me, and there is a blend of entrepreneurship and humbleness that is evident as you get to know your peers. It makes me wonder – maybe we shouldn’t be so humble!

Q: What are the things that keep you here?

A: Being in a beautiful place, at the heart of the Ozarks, helps! My family and I appreciate that beauty and outdoor spirit every day – whether you are out for a run around town, exploring Busiek State Park, going off-roading at the Southern Missouri Off-road Ranch or enjoying a round of golf at Rivercut. And being able to swim in our pool on Christmas day or golf at a world-class course in Branson on New Year’s Day is special. 

Our team at John Deere Reman is the other really important factor. We have built an extremely successful business with deep knowledge of the remanufacturing industry. As we bring visitors and John Deere dealers to tour the facilities, the pride our team feels in their work and our business shouts out at you.

Q: What aspects of the community and culture make you proud?

A: I absolutely enjoy my role as a business leader in Springfield and the opportunities to interact with extremely talented community leaders like Greg Burris at the United Way of the Ozarks, Matt Morrow at the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce or Gary Schafer at FORVIS.

I have lived and worked all over the world and can say the Springfield culture is welcoming and supportive. This is evident in the number of, and support of, nonprofits in the area, but I also see it every day within our organization. If someone is down or needs help, the team rallies around them. 

Q: If you had a billboard to brand and promote our city, what would it say?

A: To borrow a phrase from Five Pound Apparel: “Springfield, Where Dreams Come True.” Back to entrepreneurship, what city our size has the breadth of industries and small businesses represented?

Q: Where do you predict you’ll be in five years?

A: In five years, or at least by 2030, our John Deere Reman business will have grown by 50%. This will generate investment, opportunities for employee development, and bring new talent and growth to Springfield. 

This content is brought to you by Ollis/Akers/Arney Insurance & Business Advisors.