Team Members

Jim Sheppard

Founder and Owner

I was one of the earliest digital evangelicals, moving from traditional journalism to the internet in 1995 when it was still a fledgling. I was a digital strategist, senior manager, leader and revenue-generator at The Washington Post, ABCNEWS and The Globe and Mail from 1995 to 2017, when I launched Conquest Communications Canada.

Jessica Smith

Senior Consultant and Chief Strategist

With a rich background in journalism, editing and corporate communications, including roles at The Canadian Press and the SaltWire Network, I excel at crafting tailored strategic plans. My expertise spans multimedia content creation, while ensuring clarity and impact.

Shelby Blackley

SEO and Analytics

I have spent a decade working in dynamic marketing, media and communications roles with top brands, including The Globe and Mail, The New York Times and Mashable. I’m also the co-founder of the influential newsletter WTF is SEO? and a frequent speaker at international conferences on the topic.

Hayley Mundeva

Communications Specialist

I have worked in communications and storytelling roles for international development organizations for years in both Canada and Africa. What I enjoy most is helping people and companies discover new ways to achieve their goals and maximize their impact. I’m adept at communications strategy development, branding and crafting complex information into accessible content. Hayley, a former client, is now a consultant with Conquest Communications Canada.

Amberly McAteer

Writer and Editor

I have a knack for great storytelling – whether a 10,000-word cover story or a pointed breaking news OpEd. A wordsmith to the core, my work has appeared in most major Canadian publications. I spent more than a decade at The Globe and Mail where I wore many hats – homepage editor, lifestyle columnist, travel essayist and longtime assignment editor for the Opinion section.

Charles Weir

Web Developer

Having moved to Canada from Russia to pursue my dream of being a developer, I specialize in creating games, websites and applications. I attended and finished Algonquin College, where I studied game development with a focus on programming. I have always had a genuine passion for technology and the way it can be used to improve the lives of others, even if it means simply making them more enjoyable.

Zachery Sheppard

Consultant

I’m a graduate of the internet applications and web development course at Fanshawe College in London, Ont., where I learned HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP, as well as how to work with relational databases. I am also familiar with the fundamentals of design and programs such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and XD to create websites that provide a superior user interfaces and experience.

Polina Skorniakova

Brand and Social Media Designer

I am a professional social media manager (SMM) and brand designer specializing in developing unique brand styles and identities. My work includes creating visual concepts, web design, brand guides, and developing strategies for effective social media presence. I have experience working with both international and local brands, creating recognizable and attention-grabbing visual solutions.