Chakisse Newton named CEO of Cyberwoven

A Columbia-based brand, marketing and web agency has a new CEO.

Cyberwoven has appointed Chakisse Newton to the post as the firm celebrates its 25th anniversary.

Headquartered in Columbia, Cyberwoven is a nationally agency that partners with organizations across the country to solve complex business challenges, according to a news release.

In her role as CEO, Newton will help lead Cyberwoven’s growth and strategic direction, overseeing the firm’s sales and business development efforts, revenue growth strategy, and marketing and communications initiatives.

She will work alongside President and Chief Operating Officer David May and founder Ben Rex.

Rex will remain actively engaged in the business, continuing to support the agency’s long-term vision, client relationships and strategic initiatives, the release said.

“Cyberwoven has always been built around people, relationships, and the belief that great work can create meaningful impact,” Rex said in the release. “As we look toward the future, strengthening our leadership team is a natural evolution of that commitment. Chakisse brings a unique combination of strategic insight, business leadership, and community-minded thinking that aligns with who we are and where we’re going. I’m excited to support her and the team as Cyberwoven continues to grow.”

Newton brings more than 25 years of experience helping organizations align strategy, leadership, communication and execution to achieve meaningful results, the release said. She is the founder and principal strategist of Cardinal Consulting, where she has advised corporations, nonprofits, educational institutions, and public sector organizations on leadership, organizational alignment, marketing strategy, and change management.

Her professional experience includes work with organizations ranging from local nonprofits and regional businesses to national institutions and global brands, as well as leadership roles supporting higher education, arts and culture organizations, economic development initiatives, and government agencies. Her relationship with Cyberwoven has evolved over many years: first as a client, then as a member of the team, later as a consultant, and now as its CEO.

“Throughout my career, my work has focused on helping organizations grow, navigate change, and better serve the people who depend on them,” Newton said in the release. “Joining Cyberwoven gives me the opportunity to do that from inside an organization I know well and deeply believe in. What excites me most is the opportunity to work alongside talented people and to build on the trust Cyberwoven has earned, helping our clients continue growing, adapting, and achieving their organizational goals.”

In addition to her business leadership, Newton currently serves on Richland County Council, representing District 11, and has been recognized for her leadership by Liberty Fellowship, the Aspen Global Leadership Network, Leadership Columbia, and the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce.

“Chakisse brings a rare ability to connect vision, strategy and execution,” May said in the release. “She is a great connector and understands how teams perform at their best and how strong partnerships create long-term success. Her leadership will be a tremendous asset to our clients, our team, and our community.”