Kelly McKenzie Bio  |  Fun Facts About Kelly

Kelly founded Group 2 Design in 1988, the result of a lifelong goal to run his own business. Well-rounded tenures at a large Fort Lauderdale advertising agency, a small production studio in Pittsburgh and ultimately managing the Creative Services group at Mellon Bank in Pittsburgh provided him with the skill set required to tackle the necessary disciplines of business ownership.

With G2D now entering year 23 – aligned with many twists and turns along the way – the experience has been most rewarding. Being able to service a diverse client base and having an impact on the outcome of their marketing efforts is a continual "fuel" to maintain the successful venture with integrity and quality craftsmanship.

Kelly grew up in a small West Virginia town, moving to Pittsburgh in the mid-70's to attend The Ivy School of Professional Art, majoring in design with a minor in photography. Upon graduation, a move to Florida provided the opportunity to align with a quality advertising agency and gain real-world experience. His involvement with the agency's largest client, Piper Aircraft, provided a solid foundation and confirmed the decision to make it a career!

Returning to Pittsburgh, Kelly landed a production position for a new start-up company with strong ties to the corporate giants. The experience gained working on the Westinghouse and Mellon Bank accounts were incredible stepping stones and shaped his future direction. His interaction and participation with the brand development process for Mellon led him to a full-time designer position with the Bank. While employed at Mellon for six years, Kelly became the manager of Creative Services with a staff of 24 (including design, production, typography, genigraphics and photography).

Group 2 was formed while Kelly was still employed at Mellon with the first satellite office established across the street from his full-time position.

In March of 1988, the "official" move was made to exit Mellon and begin the journey of G2D. The rest, as they say, is history!

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