The Year was 1993.
Having worked in advertising and marketing for years, Bill O’Connor left his post as Communications Director at Medeco Security Locks (now part of Assa Abloy) to form The O’Connor Group.
His goal was to create an agency focused on the needs of B2B companies. Over the years, The O’Connor Group served clients in the fields of manufacturing, consumer goods, financial services, retirement, and law, among others.
The O’Connor Group also created a number of campaigns for economic development groups, tourism boards, cities and municipalities, and nonprofits. What united all of these clients was a drive for excellence and the need for a distinctive message and branding. Bill O’Connor always focused on the goals of the client, not awards. (Nevertheless, we’ve won our share of awards.)
The O’Connor Group’s other distinction has been as a training ground for creatives and marketers in the Roanoke region. We jokingly call our firm “Ad U,” following in Bill O’Connor’s footsteps. “Ad U” alum have gone on to serve as marketing directors and creative directors at major companies and agencies, with a number founding their own firms. Current owners Rebecca and Raki continue the tradition of advising, guiding, and mentoring interns, students, and other aspiring creatives and marketers.
If you’re driven to help your organization grow and reach an ever-changing audience, let’s talk. Extraordinary things await.
