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Jessica Underwood.

FOUNDER & VISIONARY

Jessica Underwood is the founder of Chief of Staff, and the heart behind its mission of helping real people connect to jobs they love. Her role at COS has evolved over time, once the driving force for all business, hiring, marketing, sales and finances. Now, Jessica enjoys her own version of retirement that allows her to be more present for her kids and family. What started as her vision has become a team-driven success, built around meaningful connections, a beautiful workspace, and a culture that’s truly fun.

“I feel so proud of the company that I started, and still have to pinch myself when I spend time at the office and see the exceptional people who work there, and the amazing things they are doing everyday to make the company and themselves, so successful. My dream has been realized of real people connecting people to jobs they love, in a beautiful office space and fun environment.” – Jessica Underwood

jessica underwood

“Chief of Staff is an excellent staffing agency and provided me with immediate opportunities for employment. Tiffany has been great to work with, and she always responded—immediately—to both my concerns and questions via phone call or e-mail. I’d highly recommend any job seeker to meet with Chief of Staff!”

– Leanne H., Scheduler ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jessica was born and raised in Kansas City. She spent her college years in Milwaukee at Marquette University, and moved back home after graduation. She’s lived in the Waldo area ever since. She and her husband are active members of their parish, St. Elizabeth, where they currently serve as chairs of the capital campaign to expand and improve the school and church for future generations. They also support Children’s Mercy and the Ronald McDonald House, two organizations that provided critical support when their youngest son, Dierks, was born with severe complications. Thanks to the care of those communities, their son is thriving, and Jessica feels privileged to give back to the places that gave so much to her family.

Outside of work, Jessica’s life revolves around her family. You’ll often find her on the sidelines of a soccer field. When she gets time for herself, she loves playing tennis, attending yoga and fitness classes, and getting together with friends for Mah Jong. While COS has won awards and grown into bigger spaces, what she’s most proud of are the people she’s helped along the way and the careers and lives she’s watched transform because of it.

First Job:

Lifeguard

Favorite Paid Holiday:

Thanksgiving

Favorite Job:

Waitress in college

First Concert:

Billy Joel, River of Dreams Tour in the 90’s

Favorite Workday Lunch Spot:

The Mixx