Jan. 14, 2025

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Katie Bartling, chief people officer at Sammons Financial Group.

Name: Katie Bartling

Age: 40

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

Born and raised in wonderful Sioux Falls.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

Family, friends, the opportunity to work for a great company here in town. I’ve loved seeing Sioux Falls change and grow over the years and am proud to live here.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

My favorite part of my job is the ability to shape and nurture our company’s culture. We are an employee-owned organization, and our people, values and culture are at the core of how we deliver value to our customers. I’m passionate about creating an environment where our employees feel valued and empowered. Being able to collaborate with my incredible team and lead initiatives that directly impact employee engagement, development and well-being is very rewarding. It’s gratifying to know that the work I do helps foster a positive, high-performance workplace, which ultimately supports our mission.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I’ve been with Sammons Financial Group for 17 years, and while working in financial services wasn’t my initial career goal, I quickly found that it aligned with my desire to make a meaningful impact on families. Additionally, our company culture is very special, and that’s been a major factor in keeping me engaged and motivated throughout my career. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally, and it’s been a fulfilling journey.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Supportive, collaborative, impactful.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

I played soccer at the University of Nebraska. Being a student-athlete was an incredibly formative experience for me. The sense of camaraderie and commitment I experienced on the field has stayed with me, influencing how I approach leadership and collaboration in the workplace. Go Huskers!

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

My favorite way to give back to the community is through a combination of direct volunteer work and advocacy. I’m a board member for Sioux Falls CASA, where I’m passionate about telling the CASA story throughout the community to help drive fundraising and recruit volunteers who can make a difference for abused and neglected children in our community. I also volunteer with the St. Vincent de Paul Holy Innocents Diaper Ministry, which provides essential support to families in need.

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

 Trader Joe’s!

If you had $1 million to start a business, what kind of business would it be?

I would create a women’s social club and wellness lounge that combines fun, relaxation and personal growth in one space. I’ve already been brainstorming on this concept with some of my fellow Sioux Falls friends!