Years ago, when I was working in asset management, I watched a talented and deeply committed colleague get pushed to the brink. He was carrying long hours, relentless deadlines and serious responsibilities at home. He did exactly what organizations claim they want people to do. He spoke up. Repeatedly. He raised concerns about workload, sustainability…

While business leaders say the 2026 economic outlook in Iowa will be “steady but strained,” or neutral but slightly better than 2025, outcomes will differ by sector.  Small- and medium-sized businesses might struggle, while larger firms perform well. Some households will have a difficult time paying bills, which could affect consumer spending, while other households…

As Dan Houston advanced through the leadership ranks at Principal Financial Group, his involvement in civic and social initiatives across Greater Des Moines expanded. And while the 64-year-old Houston has retired from corporate leadership, he continues to apply his experience and influence to community initiatives that will help shape the region’s future. Remaining engaged in…

Laura Book joined the Greater Des Moines Partnership as its new director of government relations and public policy in early January after serving as workforce policy advisor in Gov. Kim Reynolds’ office for about 3½ years. She also did work in public safety and corrections in the governor’s office as well as being the deputy…

The chief information officer role has evolved at companies across Central Iowa, including at Casey’s General Stores. The convenience store chain did not have a CIO role until 2020, said Sanjeev Satturu, senior vice president and chief information officer at Casey’s.  “The CIO role was more like a back office role,” Satturu said. “They didn’t…