Mike Keller
Founder / Principal
In 1977, my journey began at Ingersoll-Rand Equipment Sales in Portland, Oregon, where I started by pushing a broom in the shop. Progressing through various roles including shipping & receiving, inside sales, and rental manager. Just before my 22nd birthday, I earned a promotion to outside sales and relocated to Roseburg in Southern Oregon. In April 1987, I embarked on a new venture by founding Road Machinery in Portland, which flourished into a multi-location enterprise spanning Portland, Seattle, and Spokane, Washington. After its successful sale in 1999, I entered into the realm of manufacturers’ representation with Direct Sales. Throughout my career spanning 47 years and counting, I’ve initiated five startups, acquired six businesses, and divested two. My journey has been a profound learning experience, encompassing the intricacies of managing people, finances, and business performance. Witnessing individuals thrive within our companies, and sometimes venturing to start their own, brings me immense satisfaction and proud of those who have done so.
States covered
OR & Southwest WA
Stephen Burke
Account Manager
Stephen started his sales career with BEI, an industrial and agricultural chemical company in Honolulu, Hawaii. Eventually Stephen would move on to become the Regional Sales Manager with Bacon Universal a Komatsu and Kubota Dealer in Hawaii. During his time at Bacon Universal Stephen was responsible for all sales and marketing efforts. Stephen implemented an aggressive marketing program consisting of radio, tv, internet and community activities to highlight the Bacon Universal name and product lineup. Through those efforts Stephen and his team increased annual revenue from 12M to 70M and became the construction equipment market share leader in Hawaii. For three consecutive years Bacon Universal was recognized as one of Hawaii’s fastest growing companies. During his time as Sales and Marketing Manager Bacon Universal received numerous sales awards from Komatsu, Kubota and NPK.
Stephen moved to Sacramento, CA in 2020 where he joined Direct Sales. Stephen is responsible for serving our manufacturers and clients in California, Nevada and Hawaii.
States covered
CA, NV, HI
Dustin Heyen
Account Manager
Dustin is a seasoned professional in business and sales, with nearly 20 years of experience in the agriculture and construction equipment markets. His most recent employment was with RDO Equipment, where he enjoyed a successful 6-years. He has closed several million-dollar deals and consistently achieved an annual sales volume exceeding $10 million for many years. Covering the entire Northwest region, Dustin managed approximately 150 accounts, handling every aspect of the sales process from start to finish Dustin has a great attitude and follow-up skills. He lives in the Tri-Cities area of Eastern Washington. His area of responsibility is Idaho, Montana and east of the Cascade Mountains in Oregon & Washington. This entire region is similar in climate and culture which makes it a perfect fit for Dustin.
States covered
Eastern WA, Eastern OR, ID & MT
Rob Rothbauer
Account Manager
Rob Rothbauer brings a wealth of expertise to the table, boasting a stellar reputation in business development and sales management. With over twenty years in the construction and industrial sectors, Rob has mastered the art of cultivating client relationships, expanding territories, and boosting revenue.
Notably, Rob flourished as the Business Development Manager at Whistle Workwear, where he led growth initiatives and nurtured enduring client connections. His tenure as a Territory Sales Manager at ORS Nasco, Pacific Welding Supplies, and Airgas underscores his knack for driving sales in fiercely competitive markets while ensuring top-notch customer care.
Now stepping into the role of Account Manager at Direct Sales, Rob is primed to capitalize on his extensive background in sales, management, and customer service. His unwavering commitment to business growth and delivering unmatched value positions him as a prized asset to the organization.
States covered
WA
Steve Broyles
Account Manager
Steve Broyles is a seasoned sales professional with over two decades of experience in sales and sales management, primarily in Alaska. With eight years dedicated to NC Machinery, the Cat Dealer in Alaska, he has a deep understanding of the industry. For the past several years, Steve has been immersed in heavy equipment rental and sales throughout the state. He excels in crafting effective sales strategies tailored to meet customer needs, ensuring they select top-of-the-line products. Steve’s focus lies in fostering customer relationships, providing ongoing support, consistent communication, training, and highlighting product features and benefits to deliver unparalleled service and value.
States covered
AK