Kenny Tomlin

Though Kenny Tomlin launched Rockfish Interactive as a one-man startup in 2006, today he attributes the success of his company to the people who work with him. “Finding great people is a No. 1 priority,” Tomlin said. “Part of my philosophy is to find people who could run this business and grow this business without me.”
While that may be true, Tomlin, founder and CEO of Rockfish, nevertheless stays very engaged with what’s happening in his company.
Tomlin, who started working in the Web development industry right out of college, started Rockfish Interactive for three reasons: personal passion, experience in the field and a great opportunity in the market.
“It was a combination of all those factors you look for,” he said. “It’s something I enjoy doing, I had the hands-on experience, and I could perceive in the marketplace a number of opportunities where a company like Rockfish could be successful.”
Tomlin describes Rockfish as being not just a technology firm and not just a strategy firm and not just a marketing agency, but all three. That means his responsibilities must cover all these bases.
Not only does Tomlin participate in the management of Rockfish Interactive’s client projects, but he also leads Rockfish Labs, a product development group within Rockfish Interactive.
Tomlin also is involved in client growth and in business development strategies for the company’s future. “I’m trying to look ahead 12 months,” Tomlin said. “Where do we want our revenue coming from 12 months from now?”
Although he’s involved in the day-to-day work of his business, Tomlin said his primary responsibility was building the Rockfish team. And he seems to be doing a good job. The company has grown to 116 employees, whom Tomlin describes as “self-motivated enthusiasts.”
“We have found some fabulously talented people,” he said.

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