Finalist
Marketing, Media and Entertainment
David Clarke put away his gas mask and jumpsuit.
The disguises were once a way to grab potential clients’ attention, but Clarke and his company, BGT Partners, have grown past that.
Clarke founded the interactive marketing firm in his garage in 1996. He saw possibilities in the Internet and wanted to educate companies on the role it would eventually play in society. He also wanted to provide services to connect businesses with the world on the Web.
Steering away from the path most of his competitors took, Clarke, the firm’s managing partner, refused to attract outside investors. The idea has afforded BGT flexibility when it comes to making investment decisions and has helped in maintaining strong client retention.
BGT Partners’ high retention rate isn’t only among customers. The firm’s employee retention is nearly 100 percent and a vital part of BGT Partners’ success.
Clarke has taken multiple steps to create an environment filled with positive energy and the ability to grow. Management encourages employees to work on projects of their own interest. Uncommon team-building exercises take place, such as dodgeball. And employees are allowed to bring their children to work for a few hours every day.
Each of those steps has enhanced BGT Partners’ culture. But Clarke’s commitment to providing continuous employee training has allowed the firm to develop experts in their field and better serve client needs.
Clarke has come a long way since the sleepless nights working in his garage. BGT Partners has more than 120 employees with offices in Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Bolivia and Pakistan. Since 2007, its sales have increased 40 percent.
How to reach: BGT Partners, (305) 438-1800 or www.bgtpartners.com
