DKY President Brian Dahl has been recognized by Twin Cities Business Magazine for his notable work in the field of business marketing.
DKY’s humble leader, Brian Dahl, who frequently puts others first gets to ring the coveted DKY bell today.
Brian along with a selection of other local marketing executives has been recognized by Twin Cities Business as a 2021 notable in the field of business marketing. He has received this honor for his ability to affect change, deliver expertise, and exhibit leadership at DKY and with clients over the course of his vibrant career.
As president and partner of DKY, Brian has worn many hats over the years, and this month he proudly wears the winner’s cap not only for this honor, but for picking Baylor to win the NCAA men’s basketball tournament. Somehow this keeps getting mentioned at staff meetings.
“Brian is on a roll right now! As a longtime friend and business partner of Brian’s, it’s been rewarding to be on this journey with him,” said Mike Dobies, executive creative director and partner at DKY. “We have seen the DKY business and family grow with a terrific team of staff and strategic partners who consistently bring smart and creative solutions to our cherished clients. I’m happy for Brian to be recognized because he exemplifies what a servant leader is all about.”
Since 2006, Brian has led the agency and helped expand its core business serving agriculture, outdoor recreation, B2B and faith-based nonprofit clients. Along with three co-partners, Brian sets the strategic vision for the firm and is the force behind increasing DKY’s expertise and capabilities to serve client needs and grow the agency. In 2020, DKY increased its staff by 25 percent and its revenue by 30 percent despite the challenging economic environment. The strong path forward has continued in 2021.
As a 26-year veteran of DKY, Brian is known for his brand marketing expertise, strategic thinking, giving spirit and kind, humble leadership. Colleagues and clients alike respect and appreciate Brian’s valuable input and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, his down-to-earth, positive approach to collaboration is often the glue that binds teams together. He is beloved by many long-time clients who have advanced in their careers alongside him and today run thriving departments and teams.
For example, over the last two years, Brian successfully led an industrial bearings and power transmission parts supplier, Solve Industrial Motion Group, through a vigorous rebranding process after a series of acquisitions, which included Chanhassen-based IPTCI Bearings. From the initial branding audit to building the new website and rolling out the internal employee communications, followed by the public launch, Brian guided the client every step of the way with confidence and poise.
“It’s been a pleasure working closely with Brian to create and bring our new Solve brand to the marketplace. He’s been our backbone through the entire process,” said Michael Moonan, vice president of sales and marketing for Solve Industrial Motion Group. “Congratulations to Brian on this well-deserved marketing award that demonstrates he’s at the top of his game.”
Bringing this same mentality to DKY’s pro bono work for three faith-based nonprofits, Brian generously works with the team to invest up to 10 percent of employee time to support these nonprofits’ marketing priorities. He leads by example and rolls up his sleeves every day to inspire the DKY team to joyfully serve its clients and fulfill the DKY mission of “helping good people build brands of great impact.”
Congratulations, Brian, on your honor from TCB. We are proud to work with you and thrilled to celebrate with you.