It started with a handshake and a vision: to make politics viral. In 2024, deep inside the strategic war rooms of the Democratic National Convention (DNC), a team of digital architects devised an audacious plan—what if, instead of relying on traditional news media, they handed the power to TikTokers and Instagram stars? What if the most-watched political correspondents weren’t seasoned journalists, but influencers with millions of engaged followers?
The result? A $10 million influencer strategy that saw over 200 social media personalities flood Chicago, armed with exclusive access, behind-the-scenes content, and a direct line to America’s youth.
Some called it genius. Others called it propaganda. But one thing was certain—the game had changed. The lines between entertainment, influence, and politics blurred forever, proving that in the city of deep-dish pizza and architectural marvels, the biggest marketing minds weren’t in ad agencies alone—they were building empires in influencer marketing firms across Chicago.
Here are the Top 9 CEOs of Influencer Marketing Agencies in Chicago—the visionaries behind campaigns that don’t just go viral, but redefine industries.
Top 9 CEOs of Influencer Marketing Companies in Chicago
In Chicago, the heart of innovation meets the power of digital influence. Behind every viral campaign and brand breakthrough are visionary CEOs of influencer marketing firms shaping the future of engagement. These leaders aren’t just keeping up with trends—they’re setting them.
1. Scott Emalfarb
Scott Emalfarb isn’t just running a social media agency—he’s shaping how brands connect, engage, and go viral. As the Founder and CEO of Fresh Content Society (FCS), Emalfarb has built an award-winning agency that helps brands turn social media into a powerhouse for growth.
With over 15 years in the game, his expertise runs deep. Before launching FCS in 2014, he sharpened his skills as a community manager for brands like Slim Jim, Hilton, and Microsoft, where he helped build massive online followings. Now, he’s using that experience to lead FCS in crafting content strategies that drive real results—whether that’s growing a brand’s audience or creating viral moments that capture national attention.
One of his biggest wins? Helping Manny’s Deli, a Chicago institution, skyrocket sales by 1,500% during the pandemic—all thanks to a single, heartfelt tweet. That campaign earned FCS a Best of Tweets award from Twitter, proving that a mix of authenticity and strategic social media marketing can create a serious impact.
Beyond client success, Emalfarb is a recognized industry leader, frequently speaking at major events like IRCE, B2B Next, and the Social Media Summit. His passion for storytelling, community building, and data-driven strategies cements his status as one of Chicago’s top influencer marketing CEOs.
2. Steve Ellis
Steve Ellis is redefining how brands connect with audiences in the creator economy. As COO of Paramount Advertising, Ellis oversees strategy and operations across CBS, CBS Sports, Paramount+, Pluto TV, and the Paramount cable networks, ensuring brands stay ahead in an ever-evolving media landscape.
A true pioneer in influencer marketing, Ellis was the mastermind behind WHOSAY, one of the first major influencer marketing companies, which helped establish the creator economy before it was even a buzzword. Paramount took notice and acquired WHOSAY in 2018, bringing Ellis on board to supercharge its advertising strategy.
Under his leadership, Paramount Advertising launched CBS Sports Creator Studio, an innovative initiative that connects brands with sports influencers and gives advertisers direct access to custom social content featuring athletes. From the Super Bowl to other major sporting events, Ellis ensures that brands don’t just advertise—they engage, resonate, and drive meaningful conversations with audiences.
With two successful company exits and a track record of leading large-scale transformations—including restructuring corporate sales organizations of 1,500+ people—Ellis is known for his ability to innovate, scale, and deliver results. His expertise in sales strategy, product development, and operational excellence makes him a go-to thought leader in the ad world.
3. David Zapata
David Zapata isn’t just leading a PR agency—he’s redefining how lifestyle brands make an impact. As the Founder and CEO of Zapwater Communications, Zapata has built one of the most awarded boutique communications agencies in the country, blending PR, influencer marketing, and digital strategy into campaigns that move the needle.
His philosophy? Passion fuels success. Zapata ensures his team works on projects they truly believe in, which has led to happier employees, stronger client relationships, and an agency that consistently outperforms its size. That approach has earned Zapwater industry-wide recognition, including multiple PRWeek and PRovoke Media awards for creativity and innovation.
With offices in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Miami, Zapwater has cultivated a diverse portfolio of global and trendsetting brands across travel, hospitality, fashion, beauty, and real estate. And under Zapata’s leadership, the agency hasn’t just stayed competitive—it has expanded, acquiring boutique firms in LA and Miami to strengthen its reach.
Beyond awards and acquisitions, Zapata is a strategic powerhouse. His background spans political strategy, Fortune 500 consulting, and major consumer brand campaigns, giving him a unique edge in shaping narratives that resonate. Whether he’s guiding lifestyle brands through digital engagement or mentoring his growing team, Zapata’s ability to combine storytelling with business strategy makes him a standout leader in influencer marketing.
4. Jonathan Saeidian
As the Founder and CEO of Brenton Way, he’s built a powerhouse agency specializing in influencer marketing, digital strategy, and performance-driven campaigns that help brands stand out in crowded markets.
With an initial investment of just $2,000, Saeidian has transformed Brenton Way into a seven-figure business, proving that innovation and smart execution beat big budgets. His agency’s influencer marketing division boasts a database of over 80,000 influencers, allowing brands to pinpoint the right creators to amplify their message. Whether it’s a luxury dating app breaking into new markets or a health & wellness brand generating 8 million social impressions in two months, Brenton Way consistently delivers measurable results.
Saeidian’s expertise extends beyond influencer collaborations—he’s a growth strategist at heart. His background in business development, digital marketing, and entrepreneurship gives him a sharp edge in crafting social campaigns that don’t just generate buzz but also drive real revenue.
5. Holly Sias
Holly Sias, the Founder and CEO of Socialite Media, has managed to oversee the expansion of the business into major U.S. cities like Chicago, Las Vegas, and Scottsdale. The agency itself specializes in social media management, influencer marketing, content creation, and PR.
Her journey began with a Master’s degree in Journalism, but instead of chasing headlines, she discovered her passion for helping small businesses thrive online. The inspiration for Socialite Media sparked when she noticed a Chicago restaurant struggling due to its lack of social presence. She realized that many small business owners were too busy running their companies to master digital marketing, and she made it her mission to bridge that gap.
Under Sias’s leadership, Socialite Media has developed powerful influencer marketing programs, including Restaurant Revival, a 12-week initiative that pairs restaurants with hand-selected influencers to drive visibility and foot traffic. The agency also curates exclusive influencer events that connect brands with top digital creators, ensuring maximum engagement.
Beyond marketing, Socialite Media is built on purpose—supporting local businesses, small businesses, women entrepreneurs, and female empowerment. Sias has crafted an agency culture that champions community-driven success, earning Socialite Media a spot among Chicago’s top influencer marketing agencies.
6. Noreen Heron
For over two decades, Noreen Heron has been a powerhouse in lifestyle communications, turning Heron Agency into one of the nation’s leading PR and influencer marketing firms. As Founder and CEO, she has built an agency that does more than just create buzz—it drives real business impact for brands across hospitality, fitness, retail, and more.
With experience spanning public relations, marketing, digital strategy, social media, and influencer relations, Heron Agency has helped over 75 hotel brands, major lifestyle companies like Orange Theory Fitness and Paper Source, and countless non-profits craft powerful campaigns that increase visibility and revenue. Under Heron’s leadership, the agency has become a top influencer relations firm, excelling in strategic partnerships between brands and creators that build long-term engagement—not just one-off sponsorships.
Heron’s track record speaks for itself. She’s led campaigns for global brands like Hyatt Hotels, Shake Shack, Smirnoff, and Fairmont Hotels, earning industry recognition along the way, including PR Daily’s “Dynamic Doer” Award and the Daily Herald Influential Women in Business honor.
Whether she’s securing major media coverage, developing digital-first influencer strategies, or creating memorable brand experiences, Noreen Heron’s expertise makes her a standout leader in the influencer marketing world.
7. Mike Heller
When it comes to celebrity-driven marketing, few have shaped the industry quite like Mike Heller. As the Founder and CEO of Talent Resources, he has transformed how brands collaborate with influencers and celebrities, pioneering endorsement deals that feel authentic, not transactional.
Heller’s journey started in entertainment law, where he negotiated high-profile deals for A-list clients. Seeing an opportunity to bridge the gap between brands and celebrities, he launched Talent Resources in 2007, helping companies tap into the power of influencer-driven marketing before it became mainstream.
Under his leadership, Talent Resources has become a premier digital marketing agency, specializing in celebrity and influencer partnerships, brand strategy, PR, and social media management. With an impressive roster of Hollywood stars, athletes, and social media influencers, Talent Resources has been behind some of the most buzz-worthy brand activations in recent years.
8. Larvetta Loftin
Larvetta Loftin, the Founder and CEO of The L3 Agency, has spent nearly 20 years crafting culturally relevant campaigns that connect brands with Millennials, Gen Z, and diverse audiences in authentic, meaningful ways.
Her agency is more than just a full-service marketing firm—it’s a movement. Focused on influencer marketing, PR, digital strategy, and brand engagement, The L3 Agency has worked with some of the biggest names, including Verizon, Bacardi, Toyota, McDonald’s, and CVS Pharmacy.
Beyond marketing, Larvetta is a storyteller, mentor, and advocate. She’s the host of "Black Businesses Matter," a podcast that highlights economic empowerment and the power of entrepreneurship. Her insights on branding, marketing, and social impact have made her a sought-after speaker and a trusted voice in the industry.
9. Susan Reilly
When it comes to blending influencer marketing with strategic communications, Susan Reilly, CEO and Founder of Reilly Connect is in a league of her own. With over 25 years of experience in public relations, media strategy, and crisis management, Susan has built an award-winning agency that delivers high-impact influencer campaigns with measurable results.
Under her leadership, Reilly Connect has mastered the art of full-service influencer marketing, from talent sourcing and campaign execution to compliance—particularly in regulated industries like health and wellness. Whether it’s crafting authentic storytelling for beauty and lifestyle brands targeting women over 35 or leveraging data-driven insights to refine messaging, Susan ensures every campaign makes waves.
Her contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. Named among the Top 50 Women Leaders of Illinois by Women We Admire and recognized as a Top Woman in PR by PRWeek, Susan’s influence extends beyond her agency. As a Forbes Agency Council member, she shares insights that shape the future of digital and influencer marketing.
Beyond marketing, she’s also a sought-after communications coach, known for The Reilly Communications Training Method™, which has helped corporate leaders, high-profile influencers, and industry experts sharpen their media presence.
With a 2019 PRSA Silver Anvil Award under her belt, Susan Reilly isn’t just leading an agency—she’s redefining the way brands connect, engage, and influence.
Redefining Influence: How Chicago’s Top CEOs Are Shaping the Future of Marketing
In an era where social media dominates the conversation, Chicago’s leading CEOs of influencer marketing firms are proving that influence isn’t just about followers—it’s about strategy, storytelling, and impact. These visionaries are redefining how brands connect with audiences, leveraging data, creativity, and authentic partnerships to drive real results.
Whether through viral campaigns, celebrity collaborations, or purpose-driven storytelling, these industry leaders are at the forefront of a marketing revolution. As the lines between media, entertainment, and influence continue to blur, one thing is clear: the future of marketing belongs to those who understand—and master—the power of influence.
