Nick Knuffman-Brewer | Dunlap, IL

Nick Knuffman-Brewer's career and service center on helping people grow. As the Senior Director of Human Resources for Simantel, he drives the creation of an excellent employee experience for over 160 Simantelites. “At Simantel, Nick Knuffman-Brewer has elevated the employee experience during a period of rapid growth,” writes Misty Klobuchar, Co-owner and Principal of Simantel. “He created a formal internship program, built strong college partnerships across central Illinois and designed a career-development and compensation framework that puts people first.”

Education has always been a passion for Nick, even reaching back to his fascination with school buses as a little boy. He has dedicated over 15 years to Illinois Family Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), serving as a workshop presenter, judge, mentor and board member. He is a proud volunteer with the Peoria Regional Office of Education and helps shape curriculum and career-readiness for students at John Wood Community College and Western Illinois University, his alma maters.

Prior to Simantel, Nick worked for major retailers including Starbucks, Hy-Vee and Target. He applies his enterprise-level leadership skills to create community-level impact. Misty appreciates the personal touch he brings to his work. “Known for dressing up every Halloween to bring laughter and joy, and for writing handwritten notes that make others feel seen, Nick’s leadership is grounded in empathy, positivity and genuine care for people.”

Nick’s leadership skills were also greatly influenced by several key people in his life. He admires his mom’s work ethic and integrity; his grandmother’s generosity and caring; his dad’s respect for all people; his husband Ben’s prioritization of relationships; and his in-law's big hearts and support.

Growing his family came with its own set of challenges. Before adopting their boys, Nick and Ben were foster parents. “The journey was long and extremely emotional. I learned a lot about the foster system, a little about the law, family dynamics, my patience level and how quickly one can fall in love with a child!” They are now parents to Max and Marshall.

Nick enjoys experiences that combine great food with great customer service. He can often be found at the Country Club of Peoria, Jim’s Steakhouse, Connected, 2 Chez and Saffron Social, embracing Simantel’s campaign to #ChooseGreaterPeoria.