Inspiring Conversations with Meghan Kraley Chea Jackson of Williams Group

Today we’d like to introduce you to Meghan Kraley Chea Jackson.

Hi Meghan Kraley, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
We became co-owners of Williams Group, a strategic communications firm with a 40-year history, in 2020. Meghan had been with the company for nearly a decade, while Chea was six months in—and we quickly discovered a shared vision. We wanted to honor four decades of client success while investing boldly in our team and community. Williams Group has always been special to those who know it, and preserving that legacy while evolving it forward became our goal.

Our first priority was building a more equitable and sustainable foundation. We updated our economic model, modified company policies and developed a career growth framework designed to support every team member’s advancement. We also expanded our client portfolio, maintaining the balance of corporate and nonprofit work that has been core to our identity for decades.

In 2023, we achieved B Corporation certification—joining a global movement of companies using business as a force for good. This wasn’t just a credential; it formalized commitments we already held deeply and gave us a framework for continuous improvement in how we serve our clients, our team and our community.

Today, as Williams Group approaches its 50th anniversary, we’re proud of what we’ve helped build: a firm that delivers smart, impactful work for clients; creates a caring, inclusive environment for our team; and gives back meaningfully to our community through our commitment to donate at least 10% of annual profits to charitable causes. Six years into our leadership journey, we’re more energized than ever about the positive change we can create together.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
We became owners of Williams Group just two weeks before the pandemic lockdown—talk about trial by fire! In hindsight, that timing forced us to find our leadership footing faster than we might have otherwise, and the agility we developed then remains one of our greatest strengths.

We’ve had to make difficult decisions about priorities, resources and how we show up for our team during challenging times. Early on, we discovered that transparency and frequent communication matter more than having all the answers. We also learned that investing in our people—even when it feels risky—is always the right call.

The work itself has evolved. Client needs have shifted, the communications landscape has become more complex and expectations around workplace culture have rightfully intensified. Staying ahead of these changes while maintaining the quality and values Williams Group is known for is a continuous balancing act.

Every challenge sharpens our vision of the kind of company we want to lead and the legacy we want to build. We’re still learning, still adapting—and that growth mindset has become central to who we are as leaders.

We’ve been impressed with Williams Group, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Williams Group is a full-service, women-owned strategic communications agency based in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

For nearly 50 years, we have partnered with leading corporations, foundations and nonprofits across North America to move people from awareness to action. Whether we’re changing hearts and minds or driving the bottom line, our communications are grounded in strategy, delivered through strong design and messaging, and expertly managed.

As a Certified B Corporation™ our team is always mindful of doing the right thing for the people and places our work involves. We value belonging, integrity, generosity, openness and joy—and we bring it all into our work to build meaningful, long-lasting relationships with clients and each other.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Our work is fundamentally about connection—helping people find the information they need, understand complex issues and come together around shared purpose. Communications should serve people as well as institutions, and we strive to have real impact on communities and lives beyond the immediate client deliverable.

At the end of our careers, we want to look back and know we did work that made things better—not just different. That we showed up with both excellence and humanity. That we used our position and skills to create opportunities for others, not just ourselves. It’s the practical foundation of everything we do.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://williams-group.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/williamsgroup
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/williams-group