In the last year since Tamara Keefe, CEO of Clementine’s Naughty and Nice Ice Cream, was named a Titan 100, her greatest accomplishment has been the successful build out and move into a new ice cream production facility in a historically underserved St. Louis neighborhood.
“The decision to move to Baden, a neighborhood with one of the poorest zip codes in Missouri, was not merely a business decision; it was a promise of commitment to the city and all of its community,” said Keefe. “We aim to counteract the economic stagnation of the area by providing vital job opportunities and encouraging other local businesses to invest in city neighborhoods.”
Clementine’s Naughty and Nice Ice Cream is a St. Louis based microcreamery featuring naughty (booze-infused) and nice (vegan) ice creams with an emphasis on quality and experience. The firm’s mission is to make magic and memorable moments through the delight and decadence of ice cream.
“Every scoop of ice cream produced in our facility is a testament to the commitment, hope and admiration for our community,” said Keefe. “This is the legacy Clementine’s aims to build, and I couldn’t be more proud of what we have achieved thus far.”
As an entrepreneur, Keefe wants to foster an environment for future titans through mentorship. She mentors and collaborates with local businesses of all kinds and ice cream organizations nationally. “By building emerging entrepreneurs, I am fostering an environment where the next wave of business leaders can learn, grow and eventually mentor others,” she said.
Keefe also said she has made the essential choice to invest deeply in people. “Growth is not only represented by numbers on a spreadsheet; it’s reflected in the personal and professional growth of each team member,” she said. “To ensure sustained success we need to guarantee that our employees are not just working for a paycheck but feel genuinely valued and buy into our company mission.”
That’s why Clementine’s offers benefits like health insurance, paid sabbatical and travel and school supply grants. “A rising tide lifts all boats and our investment in our people is a testament to that belief,” said Keefe.
Being a part of the Titan 100 program has taught Keefe that the strength of a leader is reflected in the triumph of the team. “The pursuit of success is not a solo endeavor,” she said. “No matter how visionary or driven a leader may be, it is impossible to run a successful business alone.”
For her visionary leadership, Keefe has been named a second-year titan.
