Benchmark is focused on strengthening our team with leaders who share our values and vision. We are pleased to announce the appointment of Lesley Vossenkemper as our new Chief Operating Officer/Integrator. Her addition marks a significant step forward in our mission to provide unparalleled service and innovative consulting.
Lesley brings 25 years of experience leading mission-driven organizations through periods of ambitious growth and transformation. In her new role, she will be integral to advancing Benchmark's next phase of development, ensuring that our operational framework supports our commitment to excellence and client success.
A Career Defined by Growth and Leadership
Lesley’s professional history is distinguished by her ability to scale businesses and drive strategic initiatives. With leadership expertise spanning client services, product development, and business development, she brings a valuable cross-functional perspective to our team.
Her track record includes remarkable achievements, such as building a new business unit from the ground up to $70 million in revenue and leading the largest acquisition in ACT’s history. This extensive experience in scaling operations is paired with a deep understanding of maintaining operational excellence. Her leadership ensures that as Benchmark grows, our core commitment to quality and client satisfaction remains our top priority.
Vince Ellison, President of Benchmark, expressed his confidence in the new appointment. "What stood out about Lesley from the start was her ability to lead real growth while staying grounded in what’s best for people and clients. She’s led complex teams, scaled new lines of business, and knows how to execute a plan. I’m confident she’s the right person to help us strengthen the business we have today and build the one we’re aiming for next."
A Vision for the Future
As a transparent and diplomatic leader, Lesley is dedicated to developing high-performing teams and fostering a culture of teamwork and accountability. She has mentored numerous professionals, guiding them from individual contributor roles to executive-level leadership positions. This passion for developing talent will be a tremendous asset to the Benchmark team.
"I’m inspired by Benchmark’s enduring commitment to its people and clients," said Lesley. "I am excited to partner with Vince and our exceptional team to build on the decades of success to advance and accelerate the firm’s next phase of growth and innovation."
This philosophy is rooted in a simple yet powerful principle she learned early in her career: if we do right by our clients and do right by our teams, success will follow.
Education and Community Commitment
Lesley’s educational foundation includes an Associate of Arts from Kirkwood Community College and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications/Marketing/Public Relations from Mount Mercy University. Her achievements have been recognized with honors such as the CBJ 40 Under 40 award, and she holds certifications in leadership and marketing frameworks.
Her connection to the community remains strong. Lesley was recently recruited to join the Board of Directors of Kirkwood's Facility Foundation, where her strategic insights will help guide the institution's future. Her commitment to mentorship and community service is also reflected in her past involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters, where she served as a board member for four years and volunteered as a Big Sister lunch buddy.
We are thrilled to have Lesley Vossenkemper join the Benchmark family. Her leadership, experience, and client-focused approach will be invaluable as we continue to empower organizations, mitigate risks, and ensure the long-term sustainability of their facility assets.