Food for Thought Webinar Series: October 2026

Includes a Live Web Event on 10/29/2026 at 12:00 PM (CDT)

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Why do residents often perceive a lack of transparency, when the real challenge is often ineffective communication? This session covers how to communicate proactively before issues become controversies, practical ways to reach stakeholders where they are through the channels they actually use, and how well-planned public meetings with strong facilitation and respectful decorum help keep the focus on the message. Conversely, poorly managed meetings and disruptive behavior can distract from important information, diminish public trust, and undermine even the most transparent decision-making process.

Jess Wildes, MPA, MS

Partner

Innovative Public Advisors

Jess Wildes, MPA, MS, is co-founder and partner of Innovative Public Advisors (IPA), a public sector executive recruitment and strategy firm. She specializes in executive recruitment, interim municipal management, strategic planning, organizational assessments, and public sector communications.

Known for her collaborative approach and extensive network throughout Wisconsin local government, Jess builds lasting relationships with elected officials, municipal leaders, and industry partners to help organizations identify exceptional talent, navigate complex challenges, communicate effectively, and achieve long-term success. Her background as an Assistant City Administrator, combined with expertise in strategic communications and public engagement, enables her to build consensus, strengthen stakeholder trust, and deliver practical, results-oriented solutions.

Jess serves on the International City/County Management Association Assistant Chief Administrative Officers (ACAO) Committee, Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) Board, and the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh (UWO) MPA Alumni Board. She holds a Master of Public Administration from UWO and a Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications from Eastern Michigan University.

Jay Shambeau, ICMA-CM, MPA

Partner

Innovative Public Advisors

Jay Shambeau, ICMA-CM, MPA, is a founding partner of Innovative Public Advisors (IPA) with more than 32 years of expertise in village, city, and county government management. Throughout his career, Jay led public sector organizations through strategic initiatives, organizational change, economic development, financial management, and complex public policy challenges.

Jay leads executive recruitments for municipalities across Wisconsin, helping communities identify and recruit exceptional leaders for city, village, and county administrator and department head positions. He also serves in interim city manager/administrator roles, providing experienced executive leadership during transitions while maintaining organizational stability and supporting elected officials and staff.

Jay's experience includes strategic communications and planning, relationship building, organizational assessments, governance consulting, and economic development. A credentialed member of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA-CM), Jay is recognized for his collaborative leadership style, practical problem-solving, and commitment to strengthening local government organizations and the communities they serve.