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Awards

2018 Hot List: Kevin Mullaney, Brandito

Meet the new stars shaking up the promo market with their ambition, empathy and passion to be the very best.

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Kevin Mullaney

Brandito (asi/325944)

Everything about Brandito’s Kevin Mullaney is fast track – “to make a long story short” is a favorite phrase, delivered in his customary rapid-fire fashion. Born in New Jersey, his family moved south to Richmond, VA, 14 years ago, but in no way has this slowed down the pace he developed in the “908” area code. “I run on an extra motor, and ADD as well,” says Mullaney.

That combo has served him well – he’s helped propel his company onto a slew of “fastest growing” lists, including the Inc. 5000 for the third time this year. When he joined Shockoe Marketing Group as its first hire in 2011, Mullaney helped rebrand it into Brandito, the so-called “outlaws of the industry.” His main job was “sell, sell, sell,” and indeed, he netted nearly $2 million of the company’s total $5.2 million in sales last year.

“I love being in front of the client, creating excitement about a brand,” says Mullaney. “We help clients brand a message. We don’t want to be a vendor, we want to be a partner.”

One thing Mullaney has done differently is volunteer at his customers’ events, providing invaluable insight into a campaign’s success and overall client satisfaction. He’s also known for tying one on – a bowtie that is. His signature crazy and colorful bow ties say: “ I’m passionate about what I do. I’m professional, but it shows my personality and differentiates me.” His future goals? “To get the company to $10 million, and to keep Brandito on these lists.”

Listen Up!

We asked Hot Listers what song they listen to as motivation for the day, a big meeting, or presentation. Here's what gets Kevin fired up!