Thursday Apr 3, 2025
8:00 AM - 10:30 AM CDT
8:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
R&R Crescent Building
12421 Meredith Dr.
Urbandale
Free for genYP members
$10 for Chamber members
$25 for non-members
Sidney Jacobson
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Make connections that count! The CEO Panel presented by SprayTec Fertilizers is designed to connect Young Professionals with successful and interesting individuals within the Des Moines region. Attendees will have the chance to speak in small groups with each of our five CEOs to ask their questions about leadership, career paths, cultivating great company culture, and more. This event is designed to get your questions answered about what it means to be a business leader and the unique challenges they face. Don't miss this popular event and your chance to get your leadership questions answered!
Julie Burtnette | Des Moines Children's Museum
An Illinois native with a deep appreciation for Des Moines, Julie has a diverse background that includes lifeguarding, retail, food service, and even pizza making. With a passion for education, she spent 10 years teaching language arts to students in grades 6-12 and three years as the librarian at Cowles Montessori. Holding endorsements in both math and library science, Julie is a lifelong learner. Alongside her husband, Brad, she is the proud parent of four daughters, ages 8, 10, 16, and 17. As one of the co-founders of the Des Moines Children’s Museum, Julie is honored to now serve as its Executive Director.
Drew Harden | Blue Compass
CEO and founder of Blue Compass, a Midwest marketing agency powerhouse, Drew has built a nationally recognized company renowned for its exceptional culture. His insights have been featured in publications like USA Today, and he serves clients like Spalding Sports Equipment, NAPA Auto Parts, and the NFL. Drew is a frequent keynote speaker at conferences across the country, inspiring and equipping leaders to create workplaces where employees flourish.
Alicia Jaime | International Veterinary Supplies
Alicia Jaime, president of International Veterinary Supplies (IVS), is a passionate entrepreneur who turned her CPA background and 30+ years of industry experience into a thriving global business. Originally from Argentina, she and her husband, Dr. Jose Samaniego, immigrated to Iowa 23 years ago, embracing the American Dream by launching IVS after their former employer closed its operations. Today, IVS distributes American-made veterinary products worldwide, with exports making up 70% of sales, and is now expanding into domestic markets. Recognized as the 2018 SBA Iowa Exporter of the Year, Alicia credits IVS' success to strong banking partnerships, SBA and IEDA support, and strategic networking. She actively mentors other entrepreneurs through SBA Women’s Business Center and NAWBO and has leveraged state-level programs to fuel IVS' growth. With a focus on job creation and community impact, Alicia and Jose take pride in building a business that supports hardworking professionals, all while cherishing their family and new life in Iowa.