Jake Waterkotte, Best Bosses in STL

Jake Waterkotte, Vice President & Purchasing Director of Slyman Bros Appliances

Jake Waterkotte exemplifies what it means to be an exceptional leader. As a third-generation Slyman—son of Diane Slyman—he is truly the glue that holds Slyman Bros together. Serving as Vice President and Purchasing Director, he brings a rare combination of strategic vision, operational excellence, and people-first leadership that elevates everyone around him. Jake leads with clarity, humility, and a steady presence that inspires confidence across the organization.

In an industry where supply chain challenges and rapid change are constant, he is the calm in the storm — solving problems quickly, communicating transparently, and ensuring his team always feels supported. His ability to navigate complex vendor relationships, manage multi-million dollar purchasing decisions, and anticipate market shifts has been instrumental in Slyman Bros’ continued growth.

What truly sets Jake apart is his commitment to developing people. He invests time in coaching team members at every level, encouraging them to think critically, take initiative, and grow into their strengths. He creates an environment where questions are welcomed, ideas are valued, and employees feel trusted to make decisions. His team often says that Jake “never asks anyone to do something he wouldn’t do himself,” and he proves that daily through his hands-on leadership.

Jake also understands that a strong culture drives strong performance. He brings positivity, humor, and genuine care to the workplace, making even the busiest days feel manageable. Whether he is jumping in to help on the warehouse floor, taking time to check in with employees, or proudly wearing his grandpa's iconic red jacket to new store openings, he ensures people feel appreciated and connected to the company's deep roots.

Jake’s leadership has strengthened Slyman Bros’ culture, improved operations, and helped position the company as one of the region’s most trusted appliance retailers. He motivates through integrity, leads by example, and brings out the best in his team.

https://slymanbros.com/