With over three decades of hands-on experience, I bring a wealth of expertise in marketing, communications, operations, and management to businesses or organizations seeking growth. Throughout my career, I've worked across diverse industries such as trucking & logistics, remodeling, franchising, internet technology, and web development.
In my most recent role as Director of Marketing at Cowan Systems, a century-old trucking and logistics firm in Baltimore, I led the development and execution of comprehensive marketing communications strategies for three brands: Cowan Systems, Cowan Logistics, and Single Source Logistics. Additionally, I provided support to various departments including recruiting, HR, sales, and executive and legal teams.
I thrive on staying abreast of the latest trends and technologies, continuously immersing myself in new developments to create innovative and impactful marketing solutions.
Prior Work Experience:
Director of Marketing for Remodelers Advantage (R/A): R/A, a prominent business management consulting firm, collaborates with successful remodeling companies throughout the US and Canada. While R/A traditionally emphasized hosting peer group sessions, my tenure marked a period of diversification into business consulting, coaching, classroom training, and live events. My responsibilities included lead generation, corporate communication & PR, and overseeing R/A’s comprehensive content marketing system, which encompassed two weekly podcasts, a blog, a video library, a quarterly newsletter, and four websites.
President & Owner of Digital Autonomy: I spent eight years as the owner and operator of Digital Autonomy, a digital marketing & communications agency. Specializing in guiding businesses through the transition from traditional advertising to innovative digital marketing strategies, I collaborated with exceptional subcontractors. Notable clients included Force 3, Howard County Government, Evergreen Advisors, and the Wildlife Management Council in DC.
Vice President of TruePresence: From 2006 to 2008, I contributed to the growth of TruePresence, a national online marketing firm specializing in paid search advertising, web development, and e-mail marketing. I played a key role in building and managing a franchise network, expanding from 5 franchisees to 25 during my tenure.
Owner, Franchisee at AlphaGraphics: I gained firsthand experience in owning a franchise by buying and building out an AlphaGraphics printshop location in Columbia, MD. As the sole proprietor, I oversaw sales, production coordination, and business management, leading a team of five.
Managing Partner at Rand Interactive: I served as a Managing Partner at Rand Interactive, a leading web and multimedia development firm serving clients such as NIKE, Arthur Andersen, Lockheed Martin, and the USDA. Rand was later acquired by Change Technology Partners in 2001.
VP of Marketing & VP of Interactive Services for ClarkNet and Verio: Before joining Rand, I held dual executive roles at ClarkNet, one of the first commercial ISPs in the country. I played a pivotal role in positioning ClarkNet for acquisition by Verio, by overseeing all East Coast marketing and building and managing an interactive services team of 25.
When I’m not working, I can be found coaching various youth group teams, watching my kids play volleyball or baseball, or traveling with my wife, Krissy.
Resume: Click here to Download (PDF)
LinkedIn: David Kelley