Speaker Spotlight
Michael Shmarak is a communications strategist, marketing executive, educator, and thought leader specializing in the intersection of artificial intelligence, public relations, marketing strategy, and organizational communications. Throughout his career, he has helped organizations build stronger brands, navigate digital transformation, and develop communications strategies that earn trust in an increasingly AI-driven world.
Michael has held senior communications and marketing leadership roles across multiple industries and currently serves as an executive communications strategist with Impact Partners. In addition to his consulting work, he teaches brand management, public relations, and social media strategy at leading universities, including Northwestern University and the University of Chicago, helping prepare the next generation of communications professionals.
A frequent writer and speaker on artificial intelligence, marketing, and communications strategy, Michael focuses on how organizations can responsibly integrate AI into their communications while preserving authenticity, credibility, and human judgment. His work explores topics including AI governance, ethical AI adoption, organizational trust, earned media, and the evolving relationship between AI and public relations.
