Rob Dickson

Rob Dickson is the Founder and Managing Partner of R&D Venture Partners, a strategic M&A advisory firm specializing in the advertising and marketing industry.1 With over 30 years of experience in mergers and acquisitions, Dickson has established himself as a prominent figure in the field.14

Professional Background

Dickson's career highlights include:

• MDC Partners: From 2000 to 2011, he served as Managing Director, playing a crucial role in transforming the company into the 7th largest advertising holding company.15
• Notable Deals: He has led some of the industry's most famous advertising agency acquisitions, including 72&Sunny, Anomaly, Crispin Porter & Bogusky, and Kirshenbaum Bond Senecal + Partners.1
• Unique Perspective: Having worked on both the buy and sell sides of deals, Dickson brings a strategic buyer's perspective to negotiations, providing a competitive advantage for sellers.1

Current Role and Expertise

At R&D Venture Partners, Dickson:

• Advises holding companies like Grey Worldwide and V7 on their acquisition strategies.1
• Works with major holding companies on behalf of sellers seeking strategic partners.1
• Maintains relationships of trust with many of the industry's strategic buyers.1

Investment Activities

Beyond his advisory role, Dickson is also:

• An early-stage investor in marketing technology companies.1
• Co-investor in companies backed by Alex Bogusky, including Brandzooka and Shoelace.1
• Former Vice Chairman of Engagement Labs, a social media tech platform.1

Dickson's investment strategy aims to replicate his buy-side experience in marketing communications.1

Education and Additional Information

Rob Dickson attended University College.4 He is based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada2, and can be reached at rob@rdventurepartners.com or 416.414.6494.3