DirecTech opens Des Moines office, hires director of sales

DES MOINES — Newton-based DirecTech, LLC has opened a local office in Des Moines and launched a specialty sales force to introduce its digital and print products in the form of electronic newsboards, coupon books and glossy monthly magazines in central Iowa.

Dan Tooker, who was named DirecTech’s director of sales, started his sales career in the print directory industry and worked with various small- to medium-sized companies transitioning from traditional print directory to digital sales.

DirecTech CEO Andy McKenna said Tooker brings the person-to-person sales experience the company is looking for as it launches new products.

“Dan has an excellent track record in working with small- and medium-sized businesses,” McKenna said.

Tooker said he’s excited to work with those business owners in and around Des Moines because they bring a level of commitment that’s inspiring to be around. He believes DirecTech offers small- and medium-sized companies an opportunity to brand their business, using products that are more cost-effective than traditional advertising and providing opportunities to grow.

Tooker said DirecTech will do more than business in the communities surrounding Des Moines: The sales staff will be involved as volunteers, as well.

“I’m incredibly excited about being here and kicking it off in the Midwest in a town that is arguable one of the fastest growing towns in the country right now,” he said. “We’re very excited to be in Des Moines and we’re very excited to be a part of this community.”

DirecTech recently purchased Hanson Directories, a telephone directory publisher since 1973. DirecTech continues to operate the business from its Newton, Iowa, headquarters, producing the same quality publications that telephone companies and customers have come to appreciate. DirecTech is also launching new digital and print products to connect local businesses with customers.

DirecTech recently launched the Iowa Community News Network, bringing original local news via the internet to communities, beginning with Johnston (johnstontimes.com), Grimes (grimesjournal.com), Urbandale (urbandalejournal.com), Clive (clivenews.com), and West Des Moines (westdesmoinesguide.com).

DirecTech also is landing a digital billboard franchise that will serve central Iowa, as part of a global advertising network of indoor digital screens, offering businesses the opportunity to reach nearby consumers.