Blake Ramsey | 20 Under 40

Blake Ramsey
Commercialization Specialist
Reser’s Fine Foods

Blake Ramsey is a lifelong Topeka resident and community leader who serves as commercialization specialist at Reser’s Fine Foods, evaluating new products and supporting process improvement. He is a graduate of Shawnee Heights High School and Kansas State University. His civic involvement spans local governance as a precinct committeeman, leadership at Faith Lutheran Church, board service with the Sunflower State Games, a seat on the Shawnee County Parks and Recreation Advisory Council and chair-elect of the Leadership Greater Topeka Advisory Council.

He and his wife, Sarah, have been married 14 years and have two sons, Hunter and Callum, who attend Cair Paravel Latin School.

Who has had the greatest influence on who you are today? Why?

The two people who have had the greatest influence on my life are my grandfather and my mother. My grandfather immigrated from Hungary during World War II and later served in the military. I had the opportunity to work for his painting business in Topeka, where he taught me the importance of hard work, perseverance, and striving for excellence in everything you do professionally. His example showed me the value of dedication and taking pride in your work.

My mother taught me resilience, humility, and compassion. She was deeply respected and loved by everyone who knew her through our church and the many organizations she served in throughout Topeka. Even while battling the illness that ultimately took her life, she maintained a positive attitude and continued to show love and kindness to others. Her strength and grace in the face of adversity taught me the importance of perseverance, gratitude, and caring for those around me.

Together, my grandfather and mother shaped the values that guide me today, including hard work, resilience, humility, and a commitment to serving others.

What keeps you grounded when life gets busy? Why?

My faith provides a steady source of peace and perspective when life becomes busy. Through prayer, reflection, and reading the Bible with my children, I am able to stay grounded and focused on what matters most. As family activities, community involvement, and work responsibilities continue to grow, my faith remains an essential foundation that helps me navigate each day with purpose and balance.

What led you to your career?

My career path was not one I initially planned. I graduated in 2009 during a particularly challenging job market, and an opportunity in the food industry became my entry point into the workforce. As I gained experience, I discovered that the industry offered a wide range of opportunities that aligned well with my strengths and interests.

What does good leadership look like to you? Why?

Good leadership is creating clarity, trust, and accountability while helping people do their best work. A strong leader sets a clear direction, removes obstacles, and empowers the team to make decisions instead of micromanaging them.

I value leaders who are transparent, approachable, and willing to make difficult decisions when needed. They listen to different perspectives, communicate openly, and hold themselves to the same standards they expect from others. The best leaders also develop people, helping them grow professionally rather than simply focusing on short-term results.

What’s a hobby you wish you had more time for? What do you enjoy about it?

I would love to have more time for woodworking and building. I enjoy the challenge of taking an idea and turning it into something tangible through careful planning, craftsmanship, and problem-solving. There is a real sense of satisfaction in creating something with my own hands and seeing the finished product come together. It is both a creative outlet and a rewarding way to stay focused and productive.

What’s one thing you’ll always say yes to? Why?

I will always say yes to a round of golf. It is one of my favorite ways to relax, spend time with friends, and challenge myself. I enjoy that every round is different and provides an opportunity to focus, improve, and compete against my own expectations. Golf allows me to disconnect from daily responsibilities, enjoy the outdoors, and return feeling refreshed and recharged.