Distribution Trends Top 40 Under 40: Dan Keesling
Keesling, 34, is CEO of Johnstone Supply's Evansville group
While Dan Keesling’s family started a HVACR wholesale business in 1993, it was never his intention to work within it.
Fate had a different plan. Fourteen years ago, while working in a different trade, he was suddenly laid off. Seeking part-time work, he returned to the family business. He’s been with Johnstone Supply’s Evansville Group ever since.
After spending a year as a warehouse and delivery driver, he spent five years as a counter salesman, three years as a branch manager, four years as operations manager, and now occupies the role of CEO.
“My long-term goal is to build a successful business that grows and develops our own team while being known for the best customer service in our markets,” said the 34-year-old Keesling.
As a manager, Keesling excels by always striving to do the right thing.
“You must always do what you say you’ll do and never assume negative intent,” he said. “Those factors will allow you to keep things in perspective, see things from another person’s point of view, and prove that you are trustworthy.”
His enthusiasm — and the enthusiasm exhibited by the younger generation of workers — stems from their passion in knowing the industry paves the path for his future.
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“We have a fantastic team who I’ve worked with for many years,” he said. “I think working every job along the way has helped, and it’s important that no task that needs to be done is beneath you. There are many opportunities in this industry, and we are learning all we can from the current generation but are also ready to introduce our own ideas and perspectives.”
For Keesling, the most valuable aspect of his job lies in the people he works with and for.
“The parts are all the same; it’s the people who make the difference,” Keesling said. “Failure is acceptable as long as you learn from it. I’ve learned never to be afraid to try something new and to never stop developing yourself and others. Knowledge should be shared not buried.”
Keesling, who is a Copeland technical specialist, continues to sharpen his skills by participating in two Johnstone Supply advisory boards. He’s also served as the chair of the company’s Next Generation Leadership Committee for two years.
When not working within the family business, Keesling can be found participating in competitive shooting events or homebrewing beer.
Publication date: 09/19/18
Publication date: 9/19/2018
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