Gatesman, one of the fastest-growing, privately owned marketing communications agencies in the U.S., congratulates president Shannon Baker on being named a Smart 50 Top Executive by Smart Business Magazine for her drive to innovate and her passion for Gatesman’s success.

The Smart 50 Awards are presented to top executives in Pittsburgh, Cleveland and Columbus each year for their ability to effectively build and lead savvy organizations. Nominees are evaluated based on achievements in innovation, impact and sustainability.

“Shannon’s fiery passion for our agency and the work we do is unmatched,” said John Gatesman, CEO, Gatesman. “Anyone who has had the opportunity to work with Shannon understands her extraordinary energy and leadership. She is constantly pushing for new ideas and brings her very best to the table for our colleagues and clients, and that’s what helps us produce such incredible results.”

Baker joined the agency in 2008 and hasn’t stopped moving since. As director of public relations, she built a nationally-recognized PR practice in less than three years. Her leadership guided the department to become a center of excellence and one of the most award-winning teams of its size. This success and business impact earned her equity partnership in the firm, and Baker became a major contributor to a record-breaking 10 years of consecutive year-over-year growth for Gatesman.

Baker took on the role of president in November 2016 and is responsible for the agency’s daily operations, as well as playing a key role in redefining the agency’s marketing model to drive integration, innovation and creativity as the worlds of technology, content and experience combine. In the past year, Baker co-led the successful acquisition of award-winning Noble Communications alongside CEO John Gatesman. The acquisition increased the agency’s size and revenue by nearly 50 percent and expanded its presence to include two additional offices in Chicago and Springfield, Mo.

“Since joining the agency, Shannon has helped to forge a continual path of growth and success,” added Gatesman. “Even when navigating uncharted territory, Shannon’s keen leadership is a guiding light for our team.”

For more information, please visit gatesmanagency.com or join in on the conversation on Facebook or Twitter.

About Gatesman:

Gatesman is one of the fastest-growing, mid-size, privately owned agencies in the U.S. With offices in Pittsburgh, Chicago, and Springfield, Mo., Gatesman offers expertise in strategy/branding, advertising, public relations, social media, digital and analytics. Gatesman is a partner in AMIN Worldwide, an alliance of over 50 independent marketing agencies, and IPREX, a global communications network. Gatesman acquired Quest Fore in 2014 and Noble Communications in 2017.