Dennis Collins
Chief Operating Officer

Dennis brings over 23 years of client and agency marketing communications experience, most of it within the technology sector, to Tech Image and its clients. His primary account service role is to direct the strategic planning of client programs, refine the creative messages and prepare special event proposals. He is also responsible for much of the agency's ongoing activities, especially its business expansion plans. His career has been very entrepreneurial, and he has significant experience with start–ups and the special demands that they present. Over the years, he has consulted with and directly developed advertising, marketing and promotional campaigns for a diverse group of clients, ranging from McDonald’s to GE and Sara Lee to HP. Prior to joining Tech Image in 1998, he directed the overall marketing communications efforts for Truevision (a leading digital video manufacturer) and was responsible for the international launch of over a dozen distinct product lines. He served as a corporate director through its subsequent merger with RasterOps in 1993. Dennis has also supervised the advertising and PR for an international technical and computer book publisher, and even conceived, operated and sold a gourmet dessert café business.

What is Your Favorite Success Story?
While I was working at Truevision, Inc., I inherited an annual Art Contest. Its purpose was to promote the use of our advanced graphics products, and the company had received minimal interest in the event. Within two years, after coordinating with major partners, the Truevision Art Contest was the largest event of its kind, with an annual prize package over $250,000, awarded to finalists in four categories. One year, a finalist from Great Britain won an advanced graphics workstation. It turned out that he was a traditional painter who wanted to expand into computer graphics, and he had borrowed heavily to buy a starter–level system. This new workstation allowed him to expand his portfolio, and within a year his work was for sale through Christie's in London. I enjoyed this story because it truly became a winning solution for everyone, and that is something I am always trying to achieve.

What Are Your Hobbies and Interests?
Listening to music and (to a much lesser degree these days) playing drums are my main interests. I have an extensive album and CD collection, although much of it is obscure Euro–Art Rock from the mid–70's and beyond. I also serve as a weaver's assistant to my wife, who is a textile artist with a computerized loom. Architecture and design continue to fascinate me, along with contemporary crafts in glass and porcelain.

What is the Title of the Last Good Book You Read?
Frank Lloyd Wright: a Biography by Meryle Secrest and Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand.

Who are Your Favorite Recording Artists?
Original Prog–rockers like Gentle Giant, Yes and Genesis, with a dash of The Cars, Depeche Modeand Tangerine Dream blended with Tool, The Doves and AfroCelt Sound System for current seasoning. Of course, John–Paul–George–and–Ringo fit in somewhere, too.

Why Are You a Good Fit at Tech Image?
Communications challenges always get my juices flowing, and I really enjoy the rush from helping leveraged companies get a foothold against established competitors or traditional practices. Our clients are all bright, motivated people who strive to do great things, and we’re along for the ride. Also, creating a collegial environment that lets professionals thrive has been a personal goal for a long time. With Tech Image and its team, I feel I’ve come close to achieving that, and the results speak for themselves – happy clients, energetic co-workers, and a boatload of great placements and fun times.