Bailee Arnburg
Director of sports, Catch Des Moines
Age: 28
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Bachelor of Sports Management, Grand View University
Fiancé: Jon Mor
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Tell us four of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.
I serve on the IMT Des Moines Marathon committee – along with spending the weekend helping out at the race.
I organized all 1,100 volunteers for the Des Moines 70.3 Ironman, where I was able to grant $20,000 back to our local community.
I have worked to bring multiple national events that bring a great amount of economic impact to our community, including National Speech & Debate, USA Wrestling Preseason Nationals, AAU Junior Olympics, NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament first and second rounds, etc.
I assisted in producing some large-scale endurance events around the country, to name a few: Miami Marathon, St Jude’s Marathon - Memphis, Bay to Breakers - San Francisco.
What’s an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life?
As a student athlete at Grand View, I balanced basketball, work, school and a social life. Learning to manage competing priorities and wear multiple hats shaped my work style today — I tackle every challenge with focus, flexibility and a drive to make it all work.
What’s one decision you made early in your career that had an outsized impact?
Early in my career, I made the decision to say yes to everything, including certain opportunities before I felt fully ready. Taking on stretch roles and responsibilities accelerated my growth, expanded my network and built confidence through action rather than waiting for perfect preparation.
What are your aspirations for the future?
I aspire to expand my influence — mentoring emerging leaders, shaping my industry and serving on boards — while starting a family and setting an example for my children of hard work, purpose and leading with integrity.
What are you still working on to improve as a leader?
As a young leader who has grown quickly, I’m continuously working on balancing ambition with sustainability — for both myself and my team. I naturally move fast, set high standards and say yes to all the things, and I’ve learned that strong leadership isn’t just about driving results, but about pacing growth in a way that develops people along the way.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a young professional?
My advice would be: Say yes. Put yourself in rooms that make you a little uncomfortable. Step outside your comfort zone and take on opportunities you don’t feel fully ready for. That’s where the real growth happens — both personally and professionally.
What’s one regular habit that’s made you successful?
I start my day with a workout and a coffee in hand. Those two things totally change my mood and mindset, and somehow make me feel like I can handle anything the day throws at me.
What’s one outdated way of thinking that you’d like to challenge?
The belief that long hours behind a desk are the primary measure of commitment or success. While hard work matters, impact is better defined by focused execution and meaningful results. Prioritizing work-life balance supports sustainable performance and stronger leadership over time.
What is one issue you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?
Nonprofits are the backbone of our community, yet funding and sustainability remain challenges. Addressing this would help ensure vital programs thrive, create lasting economic and social impact, and allow organizations to continue serving and supporting Central Iowa.
What’s one fun fact about you?
I played college basketball and I have worked over 30 marathons all across the country.
Hobbies: Golf, working out and travel.
What is one word that best describes you?
Catalyst.
What’s one food you think people must try in the Des Moines area?
Iowa Taproom jalapeño poppers.
What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened to you recently?
Getting engaged!
What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?
Iowa State Fair – pickledawgs!
What is your go-to snack?
Chips and salsa.