The Top Five series features experts in human resources, marketing, accounting, IT and more. Presenters will introduce five key points on specific topics that help small business owners be successful. Each event will take place virtually from 9 – 10 a.m. via Zoom.
Session Overview:
Marketing is evolving faster than most organizations can keep up with—driven by changing consumer behavior, AI-powered tools, and an increasingly fragmented media landscape. In this session, participants will explore the five marketing truths to stay relevant, visible and competitive in 2026.
Speaker:

Jes Schnieders is a VP of Integrated Strategy at Maclyn with more than 25 years of marketing and branding experience across central Iowa and national markets. She brings a deep background in brand strategy and leadership, having served as a Brand & Reputation Consultant at Nationwide Insurance, where she managed a portfolio of sub-brands and high-profile product launches, and as Director of Marketing at Elevance Health, leading a team focused on customized healthcare marketing strategies.
Beyond her client work, Jes is actively involved in the community, supporting Children’s Cancer Connection and other local nonprofit organizations. She is a member of AAF Des Moines and Women Lead Change.