Alan Brown is the visionary Founder and Chair of DNA Seattle, a leading advertising agency renowned for its strategic prowess and long-standing client relationships. With a career that began in some of the most respected companies in the world, Alan has built a reputation as a dynamic leader who combines deep strategic insights with an empathetic understanding of client needs. His journey in marketing started at Procter & Gamble, a company known for its rigorous approach to brand management and consumer understanding. Here, Alan honed his skills in crafting solid strategies that drive business success.

Following his tenure at Procter & Gamble, Alan moved to Pepsi-Cola, where he gained a profound appreciation for the responsibilities clients shoulder in executing and sustaining strategic initiatives. His experience in these demanding environments provided him with a unique perspective that he would later bring to DNA Seattle, where he has been instrumental in shaping the agency’s client-first philosophy. This empathy for clients, coupled with his strategic acumen, has led to DNA Seattle achieving an average client tenure of 10 years, a testament to the trust and value that Alan and his team consistently deliver.

As the executive sponsor for some of DNA’s largest clients, Alan is deeply involved in ensuring that the agency not only meets but exceeds client expectations. His leadership extends beyond day-to-day operations; as Chair of the DNA board, Alan is responsible for steering the company’s long-term vision and strategic growth. This includes enhancing the agency’s capabilities, pursuing geographic expansion, and establishing DNA Seattle as a formidable national brand in the advertising industry.

Alan’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is another cornerstone of his leadership. He was an inaugural member of CEO Action for Diversity and Inclusion, reflecting his dedication to fostering inclusive environments within the business community. His efforts in this area have not gone unnoticed. In 2017, Alan was honored with the Puget Sound Business Journal’s Outstanding Voice award, recognizing his leadership on LGBTQ+ issues. His advocacy work continued to garner recognition, as he was named to the Campaign US 40 Over 40 in 2022, a prestigious list that celebrates influential professionals who have made significant contributions to their industries.

In 2023, Alan’s outstanding contributions to advertising were further acknowledged when he was awarded the Silver Medal by the American Advertising Federation, a highly respected accolade in the advertising community. This award is given to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the advancement of advertising, further solidifying Alan’s status as a leader in the field.

Outside of his professional achievements, Alan is deeply committed to community service. He serves on the board of StolenYouth, a non-profit organization dedicated to ending child sex trafficking in Washington state. This role allows Alan to leverage his leadership skills and passion for social justice in making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable children.

Alan Brown’s career is marked by a unique blend of strategic brilliance, client empathy, and a steadfast commitment to diversity and inclusion. His leadership at DNA Seattle has not only propelled the agency to new heights but has also set a standard for what it means to be a truly inclusive and client-focused organization. Through his professional and philanthropic efforts, Alan continues to inspire those around him, leaving a lasting impact on the advertising industry and the broader community.

Character

Alan Brown demonstrates a strong commitment to empathy and inclusivity, which is evident in his leadership at DNA Seattle and his advocacy for diversity and inclusion. His character is further highlighted by his long-standing dedication to social causes, such as his work with StolenYouth, and his recognition for leadership on LGBTQ+ issues.

Knowledge

With a career spanning four decades, Alan has accumulated deep expertise in marketing and advertising, particularly within consumer packaged goods, financial services, and technology sectors. His foundational experiences at Procter & Gamble and Pepsi-Cola provided him with a robust understanding of strategic brand management and the importance of client-centric approaches.

Strategic

Alan has been instrumental in steering DNA Seattle’s long-term vision, driving geographic expansion, and enhancing the agency’s capabilities. His strategic foresight has contributed to the agency’s impressive client retention rate, reflecting his ability to craft and implement growth initiatives that align with market demands.

Communication

Alan excels in communication, not only through his role as an executive sponsor for major clients but also as a public advocate for diversity and inclusion. His effective communication skills have earned him industry recognition, including the Puget Sound Journal’s Outstanding Voice award and the American Advertising Federation’s Silver Medal for contributions to advertising.