A Glimpse of Fashion 4WRD: David Knies
David Knies tells stories. For over 25 years, he has worked with major brands around the world to market their stories to consumers, helping consumers to achieve what he calls a “brand experience”. Knies is now Chief Strategy Office at Breakaway, a branding firm in Boston. And maybe what makes him so good at his job is the retelling of his own interesting story, retracing how he got to where he is today.
A soccer fan uninspired by career opportunities after college, Knies packed a suitcase and bought a one-way ticket to Germany hoping to work for Adidas. After 18 months, he received and accepted an offer in their global training program, which eventually put him in a product management role in their international soccer business unit.
After a few years, though, his passion dissipated amongst the pettiness of office politics and promotions. He lost confidence in his abilities and dreaded going to work. After 15 years, he decided that he was done, and that he needed a radical change.
Realizing he had a talent for strategy and public speaking, Knies started a brand, marketing, product, and sales strategy consulting firm. He doesn’t deny that the road was tough getting the new team off the ground, but in the end it was well worth it, and one of the best decisions he ever made.
Fast forward to today, and Knies is now a seasoned expert in the field of branding and marketing. He has worked for renowned companies such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Velcro, the NBA, Sony, and Cirque du Soleil. He recognizes that he wouldn’t be where he is without the people who helped him get there along the way, and he actively mentors individuals and young companies.
Knies’ website boasts the title #Superpowered, and there is no other way to describe him. Don’t miss the chance to hear from David Knies as a panelist at Fashion 4WRD, at the Boston MFA this Thursday, September 17!
Image courtesy of Carmen Villadar Flickr
