Keith Dawn
CEO, Strategic Growth Partners, LLC
Keith Dawn, CEO of Strategic Growth Partners, LLC, is a seasoned media and marketing executive with a 30-year track record of helping small to mid-sized businesses optimize performance and profitability. Known for his hands-on approach, Keith has worked closely with business leaders to boost revenue through targeted sales and marketing strategies. Recognizing that revenue growth alone has limits, Keith expanded his focus to encompass efficiencies, cost control, financial acumen, product development, staff mentoring, and sustainable business practices.
His experience with privately held companies allowed him to fine-tune these skills, working directly with owners to design long-term strategic plans that deliver consistent profit growth. "Business is challenging enough without added pressures like inflation, economic downturns, and global disruptions," says Keith. "My role is to help leaders work ontheir business, not in it, identifying growth opportunities that bring both profitability and peace of mind. My clients achieve more because I guarantee results, or they don’t pay."
Professional Background
Keith grew up just outside Washington, DC, and earned a BA in Journalism and Marketing from Radford University. He launched his career in advertising before joining The Journal Newspapers in suburban DC, advancing through various leadership roles and later moving to Gannett in Pittsburgh. After a successful tenure, he became the Advertising Director at The Times Herald in Norristown, PA, before being promoted to Publisher in Chester County.
In 1996, Keith joined The Press of Atlantic City as Director of Advertising, ultimately becoming Publisher and COO. His leadership played a pivotal role in growing the media group until its sale in 2013. Keith then spent over four years at Advance, a media conglomerate, focusing on revenue enhancement, product innovation, and change management across multiple properties.
Following his New York tenure, Keith became COO of a family-owned printing and media business in northeastern PA, where he implemented LEAN/Continuous Improvement practices. His initiatives led to significant revenue and EBITDA growth, with revenues exceeding $25 million in his first year.
Community Involvement
Keith has served on numerous boards, including AtlantiCare Hospital and Foundation, the Atlantic City Regional Chamber of Commerce, and the New Jersey Press Association. He has also held leadership roles in charitable organizations like United Way of Atlantic County and the March of Dimes. Keith remains active in community service, including participating in the annual "City to Shore" MS bike ride and the local chapter of Rotary.
Commitment to Continuous Improvement
“I’m a firm believer in continuous learning," Keith says, encouraging clients to engage with my Business Academy. He has earned certifications in Google Ads and completed executive programs at Northwestern University’s Kellogg Graduate School of Management, Medill School of Journalism, and Harvard Business School.
Throughout his career, even during challenging economic times, the companies Keith led always maintained profitability. He remains dedicated to guiding small to mid-sized businesses toward lasting success through his tested growth strategies. "I’m committed to sharing my insights so other businesses can thrive."