Dontae Mears is SVP, Influencer Strategy – Central Lead at Weber Shandwick, where he oversees influencer strategy for the Central region and leads North America’s Influencer Tech & Operations. He sits on the NA Integrated Media Innovation Council and represents Weber on the IPG Influencer Steering Committee. With nearly 15 years of experience spanning agencies, brands, and platforms, he has originated VaynerMedia’s influencer team, architected PepsiCo’s in-house practice, served as Global Head of Influencer at Depop, and driven product innovation at Tagger. His cross-sector background (CPG, Auto, Entertainment, Fashion, and Tech) gives him a unique perspective on how celebrities, influencers, and creators drive measurable business growth through full-funnel, PESO-driven marketing.