Each day, we will profile an innovative leader who was selected for the 2026 edition of Az Business Leaders magazine. Today, meet Andrea Aker, CEO and president of Aker Ink.
Andrea Aker, CEO and president, Aker Ink
Background: As founder and CEO of Aker Ink PR & Marketing, Aker is known for her perseverance, honesty and results-driven approach. Lauded for her mastery of messaging and knack for resolving complex communication challenges, she helps companies of all sizes break into new markets and achieve exponential growth. Under her leadership, Aker Ink is consistently ranked as a top agency statewide, and strategies and tactics are honored for their creativity and impact.
Upcoming challenge: “AI is radically reshaping marketing — offering immense power and efficiency, but requiring human oversight and discernment. We refined our tech stack, usage guidelines and training protocols to strike the right balance for each role, ensuring our team elevates both strategy and execution without sacrificing critical thought, empathy and emotional connection.”
Leadership lesson: “Adaptability is paramount. Leaders must quickly and willingly pivot in times of both challenge and opportunity. Embracing change with composure has helped me make more strategic, human-centered decisions — balancing short-term demands with long-term vision, and empowering my team to move forward with confidence.”
Surprising fact: “Endurance sports are core to my daily life. I trail run, hike, bike, kayak or find some other way to expend energy outside every week, no matter how busy my work life gets. Some of my most pivotal business ideas have sprung up during long runs and rides.”
