Jake Brus

Vice president and managing director,
Wixted & Co.

Age: 38

Education: B.A. journalism, University of Iowa; M.A. public communication, American University (D.C.)

Wife: Miranda 

Children: Hattie Brus (9), Harrison Brus (6)

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Tell us four of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.

I serve on the boards of the Iowa Arts Council, PRSA Central Iowa and the Salvation Army where I provide perspective to help each organization to thrive.

I have counseled executives from across the United States on communication strategy as they face crisis situations in their organizations or communities. 

I developed and led the strategic planning process at Wixted & Co. aimed at aligning people, goals and growth.

I led the digital innovation of the Wixted & Co. training programs, which in turn has provided a new revenue stream and increased options for our company and clients.

What's your biggest passion, and why?

Learning. I have the chance to work with different people, companies and industries facing a variety of challenges and opportunities. I am always learning something new from that experience, which gives great perspective and keeps life interesting. In my personal life, I love to be active and always have a new project or two.

How do you define success, both personally and professionally?

Getting better. I think we are conditioned to see success as perfection. My philosophy is that if you are getting better, even 1%, that is success. And over time, those small wins add up and you are closer to where you want to be.

Tell us about an issue you think more people should know about.

Communication is the most important business function today. Post-pandemic, the world of work has changed. Employees want more connection and customers expect a new level of engagement. Sharing news — good or bad — in a way that meets your audience where they are can help to build trust, instill confidence and create opportunity.

What's an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life?

I grew up on a farm working alongside three generations of my family. Aside from learning that I did not want to farm, it gave me perspective on enjoying work and taught me that no matter what you decide to do, try your hardest and be ready to try again, which is how I approach most things in life.

What are your aspirations for the future?

Meet as many people as I can. My philosophy has always been to keep an open mind and see where life takes you. When I went to college, I didn’t even know my current career was an option. Through meeting people, taking chances and working at it, I think we can accomplish most anything. Also, to buy a lake house.

What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?

Just do it. Make a plan and get started. Go to the meeting. Introduce yourself. Email someone to meet for coffee. Do the research. Take the first step in making something you are interested in become a reality. The next steps will be easier.

What's one regular habit that's made you successful?

Prioritizing people. Make sure that you make time for those who really matter — friends, family or community groups. Work often fulfills a sense of purpose, but especially today, it can become all-consuming. Make sure you are investing in those who keep you grounded and happy outside the office.

What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?

Regionalism. For the last two decades, Des Moines and the surrounding communities have been working together to build something great. There are so many examples of this work and organizations that support it. In order to remain competitive and vibrant, we must continue to focus on being better together.

What's one fun fact about you?

I was named best dressed in high school (which you wouldn’t believe now).

Hobbies:

Reading, enjoying the outdoors and eating at new restaurants.

What is one word that best describes you?

Builder.

What’s one food (meal, snack, dessert, whatever!) you think people must try in the Des Moines area?

The poutine (and anything else) at Django.

What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened to you recently?

I learned how to use QuickBooks, which would shock my high school math teacher.

What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?

The Des Moines Arts Festival.