First and Last Name: Dave Neumann
Hometown: Fond du Lac
Educational Background: Bachelors degree in Communication from UW Milwaukee
Describe Yourself in Three Words: Fun. Loyal. Original.
Place of Employment and Position: Brand Manager at RB Royal
What do you enjoy the most about your current position?
The thing I love the most about my current position is the unpredictable nature of marketing. Every day is something different. Navigating the marketing world during the pandemic has been interesting, I think even post-pandemic, marketing will be changed forever.
What is the one thing you would do if you knew you could not fail?
If I could not fail, I would open a record store. I love music! I am a bit of a music geek and to be able to translate that into my job would be a dream. Music is such great therapy for me, so owning a record store would also mean providing therapy for everyone.
How has YPF contributed to your personal and/or professional development?
YPF has contributed to my professional development by providing a great outlet to practice networking and meet other people in my field. Personally, YPF is such an amazing opportunity to meet new people and participate in things I have not have done before. I went from only going to member Monday to stepping out of my comfort zone and being involved in several committees.
Who or what is your source of professional inspiration?
One of my biggest sources of professional inspiration is my family. My mom is from a family of 12, my aunts and uncles are all very different, but one thing they have in common is a strong work ethic. Each of them has taken a different direction in their life, but the hard work they grew up with on the farm has helped them be successful in their chosen career. Although I did not grow up on the farm, I try to take these lessons with me in my professional life. Hard work and flexibility are traits that I think can help you excel in any career, and I try to embody them the best I can.
What is your favorite thing to do in the Fond du Lac area?
One of my favorite things to do in the Fond du Lac area is the summer concert series at Buttermilk. It is always a fun evening of live music and dessert. I enjoy that it is an easy way to introduce my kids to a large variety of music types. We can sit outside, they can get up and dance, sing or play and not disturb others like at a traditional concert.
Where do you see the Fond du Lac area in 5 years?
In the next five years, I hope to see Fond du Lac continue to grow in its reputation of being a destination. Events like Sturgeon Spectacular and Fondue Fest continue to grow each year. I would love to see Fond du Lac continue to provide events for a wide range of people to enjoy and continue to make Fond du Lac a place people want to visit and stay.
What words of wisdom do you have for other young professionals working in Fond du Lac?
My biggest piece of advice would be to get involved. Get involved in an organization that you believe in, get involved at your kid’s school, get involved in our community. Not only will you help shape what the community will grow to be, but you will also gain friendships, confidence, and a sense of belonging that will take you far.