When Amee walked through the doors of Monterey Financial in June 2011, she didn’t come in with a finance background; her experience was in marketing. Introduced to the company through a referral, she was drawn in by the potential of career growth and a workplace that invested in its people. What she found was more than just a job; it was the beginning of a purposeful career.

Fourteen years later, Amee has stepped into the role of Collections Manager, bringing with her a career shaped by versatility, mentorship, and a clear-eyed dedication to the Monterey mission.

“I’ve now worked in all three operations divisions, including roles in Finance, Employee Development and most recently, I’ve stepped into the role of Collections Manager.” Amee says. “It’s been a rewarding journey of growth and learning.”

Built to Grow

The constant theme in Amee’s story, is growth. She began in an entry-level role in the Finance Division and within six months she was promoted to a Team Lead position in Servicing. From there, she continued to expand into leadership roles across departments, including her most recent position managing Employee Development.

Her role in launching the Employee Development Department in 2023 marked a major milestone, not just in her career, but in the evolution of the company. By shaping Monterey’s first structured onboarding and training programs, Amee helped lay the foundation for a culture that supports continuous learning.

“Monterey understands that when you invest in your people, you fuel performance and retention—something I’m proud to have helped support.”

Why Monterey?

For Amee, the benefits, growth potential, and stability that first drew her to Monterey Financial have since been surpassed by the deeper reasons she’s stayed—community, purpose, and connection.

“Monterey has grown significantly over the 14 years I’ve been here. Even with an employee base of over 120, we’ve maintained a strong family-oriented culture.”

Monterey’s profit-sharing, 401(k) match, wellness perks, and company events are certainly a plus, but Amee believes it’s the less tangible things, like trust and leadership accessibility, that set it apart.

“I knew Monterey was a company that truly invested in its people. Over the years, what’s kept me here are the incredible mentors and colleagues I’ve had the privilege to work with. I’ve formed lifelong friendships and have been part of a close-knit community.”

A Special Place

Her return to Collections in 2025 marks her third time in the department, a place she truly enjoys within the company.

“I’m honored to serve as Collections Manager following Jeff Smith’s retirement—especially since Jeff was the one who hired me back in 2011.”

For Amee, Collections is more than a numbers game. It’s about people; motivating staff, maximizing recoveries, and helping consumers make smart financial choices. She’s passionate about doing work that makes a difference, both internally and externally.

Leadership with Intention

Amee’s leadership style is grounded in transparency, fairness, and purpose. She’s the kind of leader who holds herself accountable and encourages her teams to do the same.

“I believe in leading by example, setting clear expectations, and promoting open communication. Leadership isn’t always easy—tough decisions have to be made” she explains, “but when you approach challenges with intention and treat each situation as an opportunity for growth, the outcomes are stronger.”

Coming from an entry-level background herself, Amee brings empathy and clarity to her leadership. She knows what it’s like to navigate professional growth, and she brings that understanding to every interaction.

“The most important trait a leader can have is a genuine desire to see others succeed.” She says of her team, “Their success is my success, and ultimately, that fuels the success of the company.”

Life Beyond the Office

When she’s not guiding teams at Monterey, Amee is enjoying family time with her husband, Jason, their daughter Sydney (also a tenured Monterey employee), and their three spirited Yorkies—Louie, Lillee, and Myles.

Her favorite ways to recharge? Planting flowers in the yard, relaxing at their home on the Colorado River, and traveling to see family in Northern California and Utah.

“Maintaining these connections and moments of relaxation helps keep me balanced and energized.”

Looking Ahead

Amee’s excitement for Monterey’s future is palpable. With the rollout of a new NLS platform underway, and growth in new client sectors on the horizon, she sees big things ahead.

“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built and the dedicated employees who’ve helped shape the company’s evolution.” 

A Legacy of Leadership

Amee Klobchar’s story is a testament to what happens when a company invests in its people and when a leader shows up not just to manage, but to inspire.

Her rise from entry-level to Collections Manager isn’t just a professional milestone it’s a reflection of what’s possible at Monterey Financial when talent, trust, and opportunity come together.