In the picturesque town of Flanders, New Jersey, nestled amidst the rolling hills and charming neighborhoods, you'll find George J Keller and Sons, LLC, a roofing company with a remarkable legacy. Meet Dan Keller, the owner of this family-run business, as he shares insights into his life, his journey with the company, and his vision for the future.
A Family Man with a Legacy
Dan Keller is more than just a successful business owner; he's a dedicated family man. Married to his high school sweetheart, Heather, for 21 years, Dan and Heather have two daughters, Charlotte and Anna, who are making their mark in the world. Charlotte is pursuing her dreams as a freshman at Florida State University, while Anna is a junior at West Morris Central.
A Rooftop Legacy
The story of George J Keller and Sons, LLC, is one that spans 43 years and two generations. The business was originally founded by Dan's father, George, in 1980, initially as a side venture before transforming into a full-time endeavor in 1999. Dan's journey with the company began at the tender age of 10 when he joined as part of the clean-up crew. He continued to work for the family business throughout high school and during breaks while attending college.
In 2006, Dan made a pivotal decision. He decided to leave the corporate world behind and officially joined the family business, taking on a role in sales. When his father, George, retired in 2015, Dan stepped into his shoes as the owner of George J Keller and Sons, LLC, carrying on the legacy and commitment to excellence that his father had instilled.
Keys to Success: Hard Work and Connection
Dan Keller firmly believes that success is a direct result of the effort you put into your business. "What you put in is what you will get out of your business," he says. This ethos has guided him throughout his career and continues to drive the company forward. Being a small business owner means that the definition of "nights and weekends off" looks a little different. The hours Dan has put in well past traditional business hours have brought the success of the business to where it is today.
He emphasizes the importance of staying connected with his employees. Dan checks in with his team on a daily basis, understanding that challenges can arise at any time. His day starts with a to-do list, a tool to help him stay on track as he juggles various responsibilities. Creating a consistent routine of communication has set the example for communication between all employees, making efficient workflow throughout the company.
A Vision for the Future
When asked about the company's future, Dan Keller's eyes light up with determination. In five years, his goal is to double the current revenue, showcasing his ambition for growth. Looking ahead a decade, he envisions steady expansion while maintaining the same level of quality work that has become the company's hallmark.
Embracing Innovation and Communication
George J Keller and Sons, LLC, isn't afraid to be at the forefront of technological advancements in the roofing industry. The company adheres to a defined process to ensure consistency and places a high premium on excellent customer communication. Consistent quality workmanship has led George J Keller and Sons to be awarded multiple top distinctions from leading material manufacturers, most notably the Three Star Presidents Club Award from GAF Roofing - an honor that has been bestowed on only 33 contractors in the entirety of the United States.
Life Lessons
Over the years, Dan has learned invaluable life lessons. He underscores the importance of not just hearing someone but truly listening, whether it's a customer's needs or an employee's concerns. Trusting his intuition and believing in his decisions has been another significant takeaway from his journey. When a customer has a concern, Dan has learned to lean on the importance of genuinely listening to the customer and putting himself in their shoes, and making sure they don't feel like they are just another job on the schedule but a job that really matters.
Respect and Fairness
For Dan Keller, fairness and equal treatment are non-negotiable principles in his business. He values and respects each of his employees, recognizing them as the backbone of the company's operation. Even though only four employees are part of the Keller bloodline, every employee gets treated equally - even if that means a little sibling-style teasing every now and then for good measure!
Beyond the Business
When he's not overseeing roofing projects, Dan enjoys a round of golf, a game of ice hockey, and cheering for the Yankees. He's also a proud member of the Caldwell University Athletics Hall of Fame for baseball and boasts an impressive collection of nine tattoos, with plans for more in the future.
Dan Keller's journey from a young clean-up crew member to the owner of George J Keller and Sons, LLC, is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence. With a clear vision for the future and a focus on innovation and customer service, George J Keller is set to continue its legacy as a roofing company you can trust.
For More Information visit: https://gjkeller.com/