Member Spotlight: Dismas Distribution Services

The article was initially published by The Columbus Chamber of Commerce.

Dismas Distribution Services is a growing central Ohio company operating since 2010. Dismas’ goal is to provide quality, on-time third party logistics value-added services. Their 60,000-square-foot secured facility has easy access right off I-270. It features 11 truck docks, one drive-in door, and racking systems.

Managing Partner, Bob Parsons, answers our member spotlight questions below.

What motivates you to jump out of bed in the morning?

I’m continuously motivated and energized by growth. At Dismas, we’re blessed with dedicated employees, wonderful client partnerships and opportunities to expand alongside some of the world’s most prominent retail and apparel brands. As we grow, I’m also motivated by the rapidly changing needs of our clients. I’m always listening, reading and looking for ways to stay ahead of the curve.

Tell us about your company culture.

There’s a sense of community here that’s undeniable. We don’t have thousands of people under one roof, so I get the chance to really get to know our employees. We’re a close-knit group of people who share a passion for delivering quality work to our clients. Outside of work, we’re united by the value we place on spending time with our families.

What are three things you use every day in your job?

My iPhone, 3 x 5 index cards and Diet Coke.

What trends/insights are you finding in your field/market?

Ecommerce is changing the way we do business. As consumers demand instantaneous and more accessible shopping experiences, our retail and apparel clients are being pushed to move quality product more quickly than ever before.

What advice do you have to give to emerging talent in your field?

As a young professional, I lived by the saying, “Be the first one in and the last one to leave.” I would also advise emerging talent to take risks and to adaptable. If you can touch a project that is outside of your comfort zone, do it. Keep learning.

What benefit(s) attracted you to the Columbus Chamber?

I was originally interested in Jeff Zimmerman’s work with the Logistics Council. After becoming a member, I saw the breadth and depth of the Columbus Chamber as a whole. They exist to make connections, provide resources and equip businesses with the tools they need to succeed.

What business challenges keep you up at night?

Since developing and implementing a strategic business plan with our board, expanding our physical space, and growing our staff and leadership team, day-to-day operational issues no longer keep me up. Our main focus now is to continue on this growth path by staying on top of trends and customer demand while maintaining our culture. My clients have high expectations and so do I.

Tell us about organizations/charities that you are passionate about.

Columbus is such a generous place. I’m most passionate about giving kids opportunities that they might not otherwise have. I sit on the board at the Columbus Children’s Theatre, which partners with organizations like Autism Living and VSA Ohio, and helps provide scholarships for children’s theatre classes. I’m also a big supporter of youth rec sports and several area church youth groups.

If you could choose any song to represent your company, what song would it be?

Amazing Grace. I think Dismas is blessed. Four years ago, this was not a very big organization, and a lot of things have happened to get us here. I see this as just the beginning.

What Columbus business person do you most admire?

Les Wexner. The man is brilliant. He built a retail empire that is the model for the industry today and continues to be an active member of the Columbus community. Our city is a better place because of his work.

When you are not working, where in Columbus do you like to spend your time?

You can probably find me spending time with my family, golfing at The Medallion Club, enjoying a meal at Hudson 29 in New Albany, or running at Blendon Woods Metro Park.

Connect with Bob Parsons on LinkedIn.

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