John Rowady, founder and CEO of REVOLUTIONhas built a nearly 30-year career in the sports marketing industry. rEvolution, a global sports marketing agency based in Chicago, is at the forefront of connecting brands with SPORTS audiences. As sports have increasingly merged with culture and lifestyle, Rowady has positioned rEvolution as a leader in the evolving landscape. Our interview took place during Monterey Car Week in Pebble Beach, where Rowady discussed how the agency has grown its global presence and highlighted the importance of his passion for the sport in driving his entrepreneurial success.

Rowady's journey in sports marketing began in Detroit, a city known for its rich sports culture. His love for both sports and business fueled his early career and eventually led him to launch reEvolution after 12 years of professional experience. Today, the agency boasts over 200 employees and operates internationally with offices in Chicago, London and Singapore. From the start, Rowady envisioned a global company, aligning rEvolution with the expansion of the international sports industry and increased investment from emerging markets such as the Middle East.

Related: How Military Service Taught the CEO of Arc'teryx to Lead with Precision and Passion

Over the past decade, the sports marketing landscape has transformed. Rowady noted that what was once just a tactic in broader advertising strategies has now become a primary focus for brands. Companies are increasingly turning to specialist sports marketing agencies like rEvolution to create authentic connections with fans. rEvolution's diverse portfolio, which includes Formula 1, the NBA, and even Olympic skateboarding, has solidified its role as a key player in navigating today's fragmented audience.

Scaling the revolution into a global power came with its share of challenges. Rowady remembers the early struggle to compete with bigger, better-funded competitors. He noted that bigger brands often wanted larger agencies with scale. To combat this, Rowady and the revolution's leadership team have often done so turned to shopping to expand their reach, portfolio and offerings. John noted that acquisitions can immediately jolt a company into a new vertical, but it comes with its own challenges. Time zone changes, regional cultural differences and the integration of many companies together add complexity to running a business. For Rowady, these challenges are seen only as opportunities for growth. rEvolution's resilience has been a cornerstone of its success, fueled by Rowady's unwavering passion for sports and his commitment to becoming a global leader in sports marketing. So far, it has worked.

Related: 'Leadership is not a popularity contest': Lessons from LSU football coach Brian Kelly

Despite rEvolution's global expansion and success, Rowady remains personally invested in the company's growth and culture. He credits fear as a crucial motivator for staying sharp – whether it's the fear of failure or the desire to achieve. Rowady's journey from launching rEvolution to leading it on the global stage is a testament to his resilience, passion and commitment to maintaining the vision and values ​​he established over 20 years ago.