Sells Agency: Expanding, Evolving, and Looking Ahead
At Sells Agency, growth has always been about staying ahead of the curve while staying true to what we do best: helping our clients succeed. This year marks an exciting chapter in our journey, as we expand our team, grow our client base, and settle into our new home in Riverdale.
Recently, Arkansas Business spotlighted our story in an article titled Amid Expansion, Sells Looks Back, and Ahead. It captured the momentum we’re experiencing and offered a glimpse into what’s driving our growth.
Fueling Growth Through Leadership and Collaboration
The success we’re seeing today wouldn’t be possible without the leadership of Jon Hodges, Vice President and Executive Creative Director; Drew Finkbeiner, Vice President and Director of Account Services; and Thad James, head of Pixel Perfect, our digital entity. Mike Sells, our president, put it best when he told Arkansas Business, “I’ve got to chalk the majority of our new business up to Drew and Jon, my two business partners in Sells Agency, and to Thad James, my business partner in Pixel Perfect. Their ability to connect with clients, build relationships, and deliver results has been instrumental in securing new opportunities for us."
Over the last year, we’ve welcomed several new clients like Everett Automotive Group, Chaffee Crossing, Family Centered Treatment Foundation, Powers HVAC, Methodist Family Health Foundation, and Seal Solar. Each partnership reflects our commitment to understanding our clients’ needs and delivering creative, effective solutions that drive their businesses forward.
Expanding Our Team to Meet Demand
With more business comes the need for more talent. That’s why we’ve brought on five new team members, growing our staff to 23—the largest in Sells Agency’s history:
- Makayla Morris, Media Specialist, who joined after earning a master’s degree in mass communication from the University of South Carolina.
- James Garvin, Senior Videographer, an Emmy-nominated mass communications specialist in the United States Army and award-winning videographer.
- Lauren Myrick, Account Coordinator, with a background in marketing strategy and an MBA from Mississippi State University.
- Rob O’Connor, Senior Public Relations Manager, a former journalist with extensive experience in communications.
- Suzanne Parker, Senior Media Planner/Buyer, with 25 years of media planning experience, working remotely from Nashville.
As Mike pointed out, “We wouldn’t be doubling the size of our media department if we hadn’t doubled the amount of work.” These new hires represent the energy, experience, and creativity we need to meet the growing demands of our clients and continue delivering the work we’re proud of.
A Space to Inspire Collaboration and Creativity
Our move to Riverdale has given us a home that reflects who we are: collaborative, forward-thinking, and grounded in our Arkansas roots. Overlooking the Arkansas River, our new office inspires creativity and connection—even with the occasional bobcat sighting.
We’ve embraced a hybrid schedule that allows our team to balance flexibility with in-person collaboration. This approach has been key to keeping us connected, engaged, and focused on what matters: doing great work for our clients.
The Road Ahead
While Mike continues to lead, he’s looking ahead to what’s next for both the agency and himself. With a succession plan in place, Jon, Drew, and Thad are positioned to take the agency into its next chapter. Mike’s perspective on the future is clear: “My philosophy is you don’t really retire; you redeploy. So I will be doing something.”
At Sells Agency, we’re proud of where we’ve been and excited about where we’re going. With new leadership, fresh talent, and a growing roster of clients, the future looks bright. We’re ready to continue evolving, delivering, and doing what we do best: helping our clients thrive.