Tim Hennessy, Jr.
DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING
Concepts & Associates, Inc.
While a career at Concepts was clearly in Hennessy’s plans, he had to overcome the misconceptions about his youth when he was eventually promoted to director. He says that even though he had worked in virtually every department in the company, he was considerably younger than most of his industry counterparts when he took on his current role and not everyone took him seriously. “I really had to work twice as hard to prove I knew the business and demonstrate that I could deliver results for our clients,” he says.
Although Hennessy has a degree in business administration with a double major in management information systems and logistics, his favorite part of the job is the creative side. “Without question, it’s The Big Idea,” says the 37-year-old. “We love coming up with an idea that’s memorable, reinforces the brand and, most importantly, provides value and return on investment for our clients.”
His creativity hasn’t gone unnoticed. Hennessy has won five PPAI Pyramid Awards for promotions he’s created for clients. He’s also snagged a PPAI Image Award for the company.
On the sales side, Hennessy’s passion for the business has resulted a staggering track record. His sales have increased more than 57 percent in the past five years, and from 2011 to 2014 this go-getter boasted sales of well over $1 million year after year, says his nominator, Concepts Accounting Manager Sonya Holcomb. Last year, he set a personal goal to hit $2 million in sales, which he met and exceeded, she adds. “Tim has done nothing short of trailblazing for the success of the company by expanding business opportunities with clients throughout the country, keeping customers satisfied from project to project, and meeting and exceeding the goals he sets for himself. With successes like these, he’s turning heads.”
Outside the office, Hennessy spends time with his three children, is involved in his church and serves on the boards of several local philanthropic groups. “Being able to balance all of these tasks while performing at such a high level during business hours exemplifies that Tim truly is a rising star,” Holcomb says. For Hennessy, spending time with his wife and children puts everything in perspective.
His best advice to others wanting to make serious headway in their business is to remember: your word and your reputation are everything. “If you say you are going to do something, do it without fail,” he says. “It is the cornerstone of a solid business relationship.”
I learned to emulate their work ethic, and am so thankful for the impact they have made on my life.”
HIS INSPIRATION
Hennessy’s parents, Tim, Sr. and Lynne, have been his biggest influencers from both a personal and business standpoint. “They are not only my bosses, mentors and parents but also my best friends.
THE INDUSTRY IN FIVE YEARS
“I have enjoyed seeing the continued improvement of technology from decoration techniques to all kinds of textiles in all facets of our industry. It’s a constant process that will continue to evolve and I can’t wait to see what comes out next.”
ON HIS TO-DO LIST NOW
Schedule site visits, read more books on sales, religion and creativity, take a family trip and enroll in a master’s degree program.
