Samantha Montes
Samantha Montes is an Account Director at Zimmerman Advertising, where she leads complex, multi-channel marketing initiatives and manages cross-functional teams for one of the agency’s largest global clients. With nearly a decade at Zimmerman, Samantha has progressed through multiple account leadership roles, earning a reputation for her organization, strategic thinking, and ability to solve problems in real time. Her work centers on digital marketing and account services, blending creativity with discipline to deliver campaigns that are both effective and thoughtfully executed.
Samantha began her career in advertising shortly after graduating from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a bachelor’s degree in Advertising. She entered the industry in Chicago, gaining early agency experience before relocating to Florida in 2017 to expand her expertise and take on greater responsibility. Over the years, she has built a strong foundation in campaign management, client relations, and team leadership, steadily advancing to her current role as Account Director.
Guided by curiosity, resilience, and a strong work ethic, Samantha believes in showing up fully and consistently—especially when the work is challenging. Beyond her agency role, she also serves as a marketing consultant for the Chicago International Salsa Congress, supporting cultural and community-driven initiatives. Her dedication and impact have been recognized through professional features, internal awards, and her selection as an Influential Woman representing Fort Lauderdale, Florida for 2026.
• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign- Bachelor's
• Featured in several articles
• Employee of the Month
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to staying creative, curious, and disciplined while embracing challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. My upbringing and goal-oriented mindset push me to solve problems in real time and create meaningful impact through both my professional work and creative pursuits.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Show up for yourself every day, don’t give up, and don’t be afraid of hard things—go after what you want with confidence and persistence.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Creativity, authenticity, and balance are most important to me—I value building things that are meaningful while staying true to who I am. Whether in corporate leadership or entrepreneurship, I’m driven by purpose, curiosity, and the ability to create impact while honoring personal growth.