Global public relations leader Porter Novelli announced that Jess Schmidt has joined its Los Angeles office as a senior vice president in the consumer brand marketing practice. Schmidt will play a key role in the agency’s work with a top consumer client, and will be responsible for managing, growing and developing talent. She joined the agency on February 1, and reports to Jimmy Szczepanek, executive vice president.
“Jess brings an incredible background in food and beverage and consumer packaged goods to this role, which will be a great asset as we continue to grow our consumer brand marketing practice,” said Linda Martin, managing director, Southern California. “In addition, her talent-focused mindset is a wonderful fit for our culture of continuous learning and collaboration. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the team.”
Schmidt has more than a decade of experience developing strategic communications campaigns that raise awareness, increase sales, generate thought leadership and build brands. Prior to joining Porter Novelli, she was a vice president in the consumer marketing practice at Finn Partners, where she managed several food and beverage accounts, including Dole Packaged Foods, the happy egg co. and Auntie Anne’s. Previously, Schmidt spent five years with The Rogers Group during which she executed large-scale consumer-focused media events, managed the internship program and spearheaded the creation of the agency’s pro bono program.
“Porter Novelli’s research-driven approach to find what motivates consumer’s decisions coupled with a team of the brightest and best in the food industry made this role the perfect fit,” said Schmidt. “I’m excited to be part of a company that creates purposeful campaigns in a rewarding work environment, and I look forward to helping grow the great talent we have at the agency.”
Schmidt earned a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from the University of Wisconsin—Eau Claire.
About Porter Novelli