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Dave Austad
President/owner at Austad's golf
Professional Background
Dave Austad is the dynamic President of Austad's Golf, a storied multi-channel retailer headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Established by Austad's father in 1963, the company holds the distinction of being the first golf catalog in America, paving the way for a new era in golf retailing. Under Dave’s leadership since 1987, Austad’s Golf has flourished, expanding to ten retail locations across the Midwest, including Fargo, North Dakota, St. Cloud, Minnesota, Sioux City and Lincoln, Nebraska, as well as multiple stores in Sioux Falls and Omaha, Nebraska. His vision and commitment to excellence have propelled the company into the online marketplace, where it serves customers worldwide through a robust e-commerce platform that complements its traditional retail operations.
Dave’s tenure as President has been marked by a significant expansion of the company’s reach, with the introduction of ten new retail stores and a dedicated website that highlights the latest in golf equipment and apparel. His focus on building a trusted and lasting relationship with customers has positioned Austad’s Golf as a quality provider in the golf industry, ensuring that every customer feels valued and supported in their golfing journey.
Education and Achievements
Dave Austad earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Business/Commerce from Augustana College in South Dakota, a prestigious institution that laid the groundwork for his understanding of retail management, business strategy, and customer relations. His academic background has proven invaluable as he navigates the challenges of running a successful multi-channel business in a competitive retail market.
In addition to his impressive business acumen, Dave is dedicated to community involvement and serving on various boards. He is a current Board Member at The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society, a respected organization focused on enhancing the lives of seniors through comprehensive care solutions. Previously, he served as the CEO and Owner of Austad's Golf, showcasing his deep commitment to the growth and integrity of the business.
Furthermore, Dave has been instrumental as the Chairman of the Board of Directors at the Sanford/USD Medical Center, part of Sanford Health, where his leadership skills have contributed to the advancement of healthcare services in the region. His multifaceted involvement in both the retail and healthcare sectors exemplifies his dedication to making positive impacts in diverse fields.
Achievements
Dave's strategic foresight and innovative marketing strategies have enabled Austad's Golf to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of retail. Specialty areas such as multi-channel marketing, internet marketing, and direct marketing represent just a fraction of his expertise, fueling the growth of the business across various platforms. Under his guidance, Austad's Golf has effectively harnessed the power of e-mail marketing and social marketing to engage customers, letting them feel connected and informed about the latest products and offers.
Dave is not only an instrumental leader but also a visionary who has fostered a company culture centered around employee communications and collaboration. His emphasis on small business management practices ensures that every employee is aligned with the company’s mission and committed to delivering unparalleled service. Negotiation skills have played a pivotal role in establishing fruitful partnerships and maintaining a competitive edge in the golf market.
In conclusion, Dave Austad stands as a remarkable leader in the golf retail industry. With a strong educational background, a wealth of experience in multi-channel retailing, and a commitment to community service, he continues to drive Austad’s Golf toward unprecedented heights, ensuring that it remains a beloved brand among golf enthusiasts both locally and globally.
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