With his hopes of becoming a professional pitcher in the rearview mirror, Brandon Goldberg embarked on a successful career as an independent manufacturers’ representative.

What happens to a pitcher when his arm wears out before any dreams of professional baseball can be realized? Naturally, he may pivot to another career path. This was somewhat the case for Brandon Goldberg. Following the dashed hopes of baseball stardom and a brief stint as an athletic shoe salesman, Goldberg eventually found his calling as a manufacturers’ rep.

“As a kid growing up in Dayton, I realized early on that I had talent on the ball field,” Goldberg recalls. “I was a left-handed pitcher who could throw hard into the high 80s and 90s, and I could hit. But when my arm wore out, and I lost a good 10 miles per hour on my fastball, I knew my dream wasn’t going to happen.”

It was time for Plan B.

After earning his BA degree in communications from Wright State University, Goldberg embarked on his sales career with Just for Feet, an athletic shoe and sportswear retail chain. Rising through the ranks to become a general store manager in Louisville, Kentucky, he was later offered a position as a regional manager, relocating from Louisville back to Dayton. However, fate had another plan for him.

The Value of Customer Service

The transition from footwear to becoming a sales representative was prompted by a customer service moment that left a lasting impression. “One evening in Dayton, a customer came in around 5:30 in a panic,” Goldberg recounts. “He needed golf shoes for a trip to Kiawah Island, South Carolina, the next day. Despite not having his size in stock, I assured him I could obtain them from our Cincinnati store that night and deliver them to his home by 11 p.m. He was impressed and offered me a job with his company.”

Reflecting on this pivotal moment, Goldberg shares, “He explained he was looking for younger sales reps to diversify his team. Eight months later, I became the youngest sales rep for a company providing global customers with electric motor manufacturing machinery and tooling.”

After a successful run, the motor market eventually declined due to competition from China.

Goldberg (right) and Brent Balika, owner and president,
Sytech Systems, Inc. Sytech Systems is one of GS Automate’s turn-key integration partners.

Straight Commission

Goldberg transitioned to becoming a distributor salesman for automation components and systems, working on a commission basis. Initially apprehensive about the uncertainty of commission-based compensation, he soon discovered a passion for it. However, he also realized that his success resulted in his territory being divided as he generated more business.

Encouraged by his wife, who worked as a recruiter for technical sales, Goldberg decided to start his own agency in 2016. “I realized I wanted more control over my career trajectory,” he explains. After conducting thorough research and finding no suitable opportunities with existing agencies, he founded GS Automate in Cleveland, Ohio, representing providers of various industrial solutions.

GS Automate represents providers of:

• OEM custom and precision electric motors.
• Bowl feeders and automated part feeding systems.
• Laser and dot-peen marking systems.
• Robotics and turn-key integration solutions.
• Parts made to print — parts sourcing and complete overseas logistics service.

While Goldberg currently has seven lines on his line card, each line complements the others well, “It feels like we’re one organized solution provider; I’m open to considering additional manufacturers, but only if they’re a natural fit.”

Goldberg credits his membership in the Manufacturers’ Agents National Association (MANA) for invaluable support and guidance in his entrepreneurial journey. Jerry Leth, VP of MANA, was extremely helpful during those first days of start-up. With dedication and hard work, he has expanded his agency to represent seven lines, each complementing the others to provide comprehensive solutions for GS Automate’s clients.

Brandon Goldberg with Greg Brochak (left), quality manager, and Scott Jablonski (right), purchasing manager for Sunless Inc., review a shipment of fluidic control valves.

Developing Business

Maintaining a personal touch with his manufacturers and customers, Goldberg emphasizes the importance of transparent communication and dedication to every project, even if it doesn’t immediately result in a sale. He believes in demonstrating his value to principals by showcasing his work ethic and dedication to their success.

When asked about what sets him apart from competitors, Goldberg humbly acknowledges the praise he has received from his principals. “I take pride in my work ethic and dedication to cold calling. While I may not know how to replicate myself, I know I give my all to every endeavor.”

In conclusion, Brandon Goldberg’s journey from baseball dreams to entrepreneurial success serves as a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of passion in one’s career path.

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