Steve Cody is Founder of Peppercomm and a Senior Adviser to Ruder Finn. A communications industry entrepreneur, author and thought leader, he advises the firm’s leadership on strategic growth, industry partnerships and brand development while championing innovation across the profession. Steve is also deeply committed to advancing the communications industry through mentorship, education and leadership development.
Over the course of his career, Steve has advised organizations across industries while building Peppercomm into one of the industry’s most respected communications firms. He is the co-author of The ROI of LOL (HarperCollins, 2023) and What’s Keeping Your Customers Up at Night? (McGraw-Hill, 2003), and is widely recognized for championing the role of humor, empathy and authentic leadership in business. An accomplished public speaker and mentor, Steve regularly guest lectures at universities and works with students, emerging professionals and military veterans transitioning into the private sector.
Steve serves as a trustee of the Museum of Public Relations, is former Chair and Trustee of the Institute for Public Relations, chairs the Page Society’s Development Committee, and serves on the College of Charleston’s Advisory Council. He is also a member of Northeastern University’s Board of Trustees and chairs the Advisory Council for the university’s College of Arts, Media & Design. Outside of work, Steve is an avid climber, comedian and dog lover who has raised more than $100,000 for charitable organizations through stand-up comedy performances.