Commerce Bank Announces North Texas Market President

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Bailie Klages has been recognized by the Nashville Business Journal as one of its 2024 "40 Under 40." The award recognizes high performing professionals under the age of 40 who are shaping the future of business in Nashville.

Responsible for managing and expanding Commerce Bank's portfolio of commercial real estate companies in Nashville, Klages has demonstrated unparalleled growth and leadership during her time at the bank. Within the past four years, she has expanded her commercial real estate portfolio by 400% and contributed to a tenfold increase in deposits, representing a substantial margin of Commerce's growth in Nashville.

"Bailie's contributions go far beyond financial metrics," said John Creamer, Commerce's market president in Nashville. "She is a fearless leader who is determined to have a profound impact on her community and industry. She embodies personal and professional traits that have not just spurred her own professional growth, she has significantly bolstered our brand and presence in Nashville."

A native of Maryville, Tennessee, Klages began her career as a participant in Commerce's management trainee program, through which she quickly distinguished herself. In 2018, she accepted a position in Nashville, establishing herself as a trusted advisor and making key introductions within Nashville's thriving commercial real estate industry to further Commerce's reputation as a reliable source for capital and innovative financial solutions. Klages also became active in her philanthropic endeavors, such as serving on the board of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation - Nashville Chapter and involving herself with the Urban Land Institute, the National Association for Industrial and Office Parks, the Construction Financial Management Association, and participating in the Young Leaders Council.

"It's an honor to be recognized by the Nashville Business Journal and included on their list of young, impactful community leaders," Klages said. "Middle Tennessee is full of opportunity, and I'm fortunate to count many local leaders as colleagues, mentors and friends. As Commerce continues to grow in the region, I look forward to working alongside my fellow honorees and making more connections in the area that are meaningful."

Honorees will be recognized at an event on March 7. A complete list of this year's recipients is featured within the January 8 edition of the Nashville Business Journal.

About Commerce Bank

With $31.4 billion in assets¹, Commerce Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBSH) is a regional bank holding company offering a full line of banking services through its subsidiaries, including payments solutions, investment management and securities brokerage. One of its subsidiaries, Commerce Bank, leverages nearly 160 years of proven strength and experience to help individuals and businesses solve financial challenges. In addition to offering payments solutions across the U.S., Commerce Bank currently operates full-service banking facilities across the Midwest including the St. Louis and Kansas City metropolitan areas, Springfield, Central Missouri, Central Illinois, Wichita, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and Denver. It also maintains commercial offices in Dallas, Houston, Cincinnati, Nashville, Des Moines, Indianapolis, and Grand Rapids. Commerce delivers high-touch service and sophisticated financial solutions at regional branches, commercial offices, ATMs, online, mobile and through a 24/7 customer service line. Learn more at www.commercebank.com.

¹As of September 30, 2023