Since Deane Wymer launched a small accounting office in Fairview in 1969, Wymer Brownlee has grown into an integrated financial services firm with five offices statewide, 50 employees and roughly $600 million in assets under management. Chief Executive Officer Kyle Brownlee joined the firm in 1999 and credits the people, culture and nurturing business climate of Northwest Oklahoma with paving the way to diversification and growth.
In the early 2000s, Wymer Brownlee opened its first branch office and corporate headquarters in Enid, adding a financial management and investment arm shortly thereafter to meet clients’ needs for comprehensive, seamless financial advice. Many wise and generous mentors, including founder Deane Wymer (who passed away last summer) helped give company leaders the confidence to take on new challenges and expand to additional markets.
“When we opened our Enid office, we formed a client advisory board made up of great local leaders and entrepreneurs,” Kyle recalls. “They were all so eager to help us learn and grow.” That legacy of investing in others is something company leaders continue to pass on to their teams, who in turn have lobbied successfully to have the company recognized as a Best-Place-to-Work-in-Oklahoma winner several years running.
As Wymer Brownlee celebrates its 50th anniversary, the holistic financial planning model is still attracting new clients, while its mission has evolved into assisting more multi-generational families. “Some of our original clients have kids and grandkids now, and we’re able to sit around the table and talk, not just about financial matters, but about core values, civic responsibility and the importance of living with purpose and gratitude,” notes Kyle, with obvious satisfaction.
“So many great businesses originated here and became extremely successful, but also stayed true to their roots. Local leaders take pride in creating a supportive atmosphere that encourages others to grow and succeed.” — Kyle Brownlee