Brent Hodgins is the Managing Director at Mirren, a firm that specializes in organic growth and new business training for ad sales, sponsorship sales, and agencies. As you probably guessed, Mirren is also the force behind this event. Brent has trained CEOs and their senior management teams in every major region around the world. He is highly competitive as he pushes himself, his Mirren team, and his clients to accept nothing less than a commitment to growth.

His approach to converting business is down to a science – strategic and methodical – but often contrarian. In fact, he believes you have no choice but to break many rules of prospecting and competitive reviews, as the process is purposely designed by clients to commoditize the organizations participating in the RFP. He also believes that sponsorship sales professionals need to stop bowing down to clients and command the respect they deserve. “As soon as you put the client up on a pedestal, it’s a downward spiral from there. If you bring a high level of expertise to the table, then take a stand and command the respect you deserve.”

Brent began his career in account management at Leo Burnett, where he worked on Kellogg’s, Johnson & Johnson and McDonald’s. Later at TBWA\Chiat\Day he launched their digital group in New York, before moving into new business at Wieden + Kennedy. He regularly guest lectures at NYU Stern and Columbia business schools.

After 17 years in New York, Brent recently moved to Seattle to open Mirren’s west coast office. He resides in the Ballard area with his wife and son.