When DeanHouston expanded to Chicago in 2013, it wasn’t just about opening another office. It was about meeting our growing client base right where they were — in the beating heart of America’s manufacturing and transportation hub.
Chicago’s mix of industrial tradition and relentless innovation made it the perfect place to grow. From a modest outpost in Orland Park, our Chicago office has become a trusted partner to local, midwest, national, and international companies in food processing, oil & gas, transportation, and beyond. We wear our no-nonsense Midwestern grit with pride. #ChicagoStrong
For businesses seeking industrial B2B marketing expertise in Chicago, our team brings the hard work and determination of the Midwest and the creative firepower of a big city. Here, bold strategic plans and marketing campaigns are born that help technical and industrial companies cut through the noise and connect with their customers.
The DeanHouston Chicago Culture
Life in our Chicago office is as bold and spirited as the city itself. Overlooking world-class architecture and rooted in the Midwest’s industrial spirit, our team blends hard work with a sense of unique local humor that’s distinctly Chicago. From quirky traditions to skyline inspiration, the city and its distinct surrounding communities shape the way we collaborate, celebrate and create.
Our Personality
Celebrations with a kick. Victories big or small are toasted the Chicago way — with a Chicago handshake, a round of Jeppson’s Malört followed by an ice-cold Old Style beer, the city’s most infamous tradition. No one said you have to like it. They just said you have to drink it.
Ideas fueled by the skyline. Brainstorms often come with views of world-class architecture and debates over who serves the best deep-dish pizza, Italian beefs, and Chicago dogs (no ketchup, please).
Powered by Chicago’s spirit. Fast-moving, no-nonsense, diverse, and unapologetically authentic — our team mirrors the city’s energy in everything we do.
Crosstown rivalry. Inside the office, the friendly battle lines are drawn between Cubs and White Sox fans — proof that passion runs deep in Chicago.
Our Local Favorites
Chicago’s industrial strength and bold ambition align naturally with how DeanHouston helps brands grow. Our presence here keeps us close to the leaders shaping complex B2B industries across the Midwest. Here are a few local spots and experiences that inspire us beyond the office.
Restaurants
El MezcalBest tacos in the US
Saigon RestaurantPho
Chez Kaple
Paellas and chimichurris
Fox’s PizzaTavern-style pizza
Bars
Tommy T’s TavernPerfect place to end perfect days
Cindy’s RooftopSkyline views overlooking Grant Park & Lake Michigan
Three Dots and a DashBasement Tiki bar
Activities
Taking in a Baseball Game
Cubs and the Windy City Thunderbolts
Appreciating Parks
Starved Rock, the Dunes, the forest preserve, etc
Publishing
Author is a relatively common title in our office
Staying In
Winter is a thing here
Annual Events
DeanHouston Chicago MLK Day Retreat
Each year, we take a day to slow down, reflect and celebrate together
Spark Ventures GalaWe support Spark’s annual gala every Fall
(Get Your) Turkey Day
The Grinch visits our office to save Thanksgiving and hand out turkeys
Bears vs. Packers
It may happen twice a year (sometimes three), but the trash talk is daily
Landmarks
Orland Park Executive Towers
Tallest building in Orland Park
McCormick CenterBest place to see our clients’ brands in action
Chicagoland’s Forest Preserves10,000+ acres of beautiful forest preserves
Cloud Gate (AKA The Bean)World-famous, giant metallic bean
Famous Recipes
The Chicago Dog
Large dog, poppy seed bun, run it through the garden
Peanut Butter Trail Mix
Centerpiece of any Costco snack run
Homegrown Veggies
We’ve got a team full of Green Thumbs
Chicago HandshakeOne shot of Jepsen’s Malort with an Old Style to chase
Yasser Lachemi
Account Manager/Marketing Manager
Years at DeanHouston: 1
“DeanHouston is the rare company that truly lives up to its stated values and ideals. Working with a team that truly 'walks the walk' is something I'm deeply grateful for.”
What I Do: I serve as a conduit between clients and our internal teams, helping to develop campaigns and build strategic plans. I strive to be a trusted partner to our clients, building strong working and personal relationships.
Fun Facts:
- Voracious reader and huge trivia buff
- Loves to travel, having visited over 30 countries
- Proud husband and father to two beautiful children
Kevin Trusty
Senior Marketing Content Writer
Years at DeanHouston: 4
What I Do: I create compelling marketing content, which can include anything from trade pub articles and social media posts to blogs, video scripts, white papers and digital ads. I work closely with our design, client success and demand generation teams to craft full-picture, action-driving stories for our clients.
“Never worked with a better team, and it goes far beyond talent or daily work. Everyone at DeanHouston is incredibly supportive, understanding and encouraging both in and outside of work. That’s rare and wonderful.”
Fun Facts:
- Three-time (soon to be four) published author
- Saw a no-hitter in person (Phillies’ Cole Hamels vs. the Cubs in 2015)
- Once changed minors in college because one exam conflicted with a home basketball game and was interviewed on local TV because of it
- Has a massive and growing library of books, CDs and vinyl records and a ludicrous amount of useless old music, TV/movie and sports knowledge
Katherine McGraw
Graphic Designer
Years at DeanHouston: 1
What I Do: My main focus as a designer is to take client direction, industry research, marketing strategy, and internal expertise from different departments to help bring our client’s marketing presence to life. I stay on top of industry trends and create custom creative solutions to help clients engage with their audience and stand out from competitors.
“DeanHouston is an iron-sharpens-iron creative environment. There are so many talented people across all departments with the industry knowledge, unique skillsets, and deep marketing experience it takes to result in some really cool and impactful work for our clients.”
Fun Facts:
- I played tennis at North Central College
- I have a motorcycle license but no motorcycle