Robert Palmer is an Iowa attorney, association executive, and government affairs advocate who helps businesses and associations shape legislation, navigate regulation, and deliver desired outcomes on high-stakes public issues. At Nyemaster, he advises and represents clients across Iowa and the Midwest, with a focus on business, energy policy, and economic development. Robert is also a longstanding civic and association leader, holding leadership roles across chambers of commerce, foundations, and industry associations. He brings clear legal analysis, deliberate strategy, and trusted relationships that move decision-makers and drive outcomes.
11-15 years
2025 West Des Moines Emerging Citizen of the Year
2019 Business Record Forty Under 40
Served eight years on the Iowa Board of Physical and Occupational Therapy (three terms; appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Iowa Senate)
Served three years on the Chicago Federal Reserve Community Advisory Committee
Serving on the Chicago Federal Reserve Pilot Alumni Advisory Council (PAAC)
President, West Des Moines Community Foundation
Treasurer, Executive Committee, West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce
Chair, Drake University College of Arts & Sciences National Advisory Council
President, Iowa Society of Association Executives (ISAE) (2025-2026)
Robert Palmer is an Iowa attorney, association executive, and government affairs advocate who advises businesses and organizations on high-stakes public issues at the intersection of law, policy, and economic growth. At Nyemaster, he represents clients navigating legislation, regulation, and complex stakeholder environments across Iowa and the Midwest, with a particular focus on business advocacy, energy policy, and economic development.
Robert's work is grounded in practical outcomes. Clients rely on him to assess legal and political risk, develop disciplined messaging and strategy, build coalitions, and engage effectively with lawmakers, regulators, and community leaders. He is known for clear analysis, strong judgment, and an ability to translate complex issues into persuasive narratives that resonate with decision-makers.
In addition to his legal and advocacy practice, Robert has extensive nonprofit and association leadership experience, giving him a strong understanding of governance, member value, and organizational strategy. He serves as President of the West Des Moines Community Foundation, Treasurer on the Executive Committee of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, and Chair of the Drake University College of Arts & Sciences National Advisory Council. He is also President of the Iowa Society of Association Executives (2025-2026).
Robert previously served eight years on the Iowa Board of Physical and Occupational Therapy, appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Iowa Senate for three terms. He also served three years on the Chicago Federal Reserve Community Advisory Committee and continues to serve on the Chicago Federal Reserve's Pilot Alumni Advisory Council (PAAC). He has been recognized for leadership and community impact, including being named the 2025 West Des Moines Emerging Citizen of the Year and receiving the Business Record Forty Under 40 honor in 2019.