Joey Smith is Head of Product at Rational, where he leads product strategy and development across the firm. He works with research, data, engineering, and client teams to turn the firm’s expertise into products that help organizations understand audiences, reach decision makers, and measure the impact of their communications.
With more than 20 years of experience in digital technology, Joey specializes in product development, user experience, software engineering, and applied artificial intelligence. His work connects client needs with technical execution, translating complex research and communications workflows into practical software. He has supported corporations, trade associations, nonprofits, and government organizations, with extensive experience in public affairs, grassroots advocacy, political action committee management, fundraising, and voter engagement.
Before joining Rational, Joey served as Senior Vice President, Product at DDC Public Affairs, part of Omnicom. He led a multidisciplinary team of more than 30 people supporting technology products and digital services for more than 300 clients, including a portfolio of over 700 websites, advocacy platforms, and fundraising experiences. His responsibilities spanned product strategy, engineering, technology delivery, and customer experience. He helped develop and advance platforms including Democracy Direct, Capitol Connect and PACWeb, supporting organizations’ advocacy, fundraising, and stakeholder engagement programs.
Joey also served on Omnicom Public Relations Group’s AI Leadership Committee, contributing to the organization’s approach to emerging technology, data stewardship, and the application of AI in communications and client services.
Earlier in his career, Joey held technical and digital strategy roles at SPARK Experience, D3Corp, and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. His background spans user research, digital commerce, and interactive experiences, including Maryland’s Angler’s Log. An independent developer with several apps published in Apple’s App Store, he brings firsthand experience taking products from concept through design, engineering, and launch.