Who We Are
Hospitality Experts Delivering Proven Results
HOSPITALITY WITH 50+ COMBINED YEARS
Our Story
Matt and Heather Durbin built DCG Marketing on decades of real-world experience inside the beverage and hospitality industry. From working behind the bar to leading brand and marketing strategy for national restaurant groups, they’ve seen firsthand what drives performance — and what holds it back. Today, DCG brings that experience together with data-driven strategy to help brands optimize operations, elevate guest experience, and build beverage programs that drive measurable growth.
When we say we know what we're doing, it's because we've done it.
BRIDGING REAL-WORLD EXPERTISE WITH STRATEGIC INSIGHT
Meet The Team
We combine decades of real-world hospitality experience with marketing expertise to craft tailored, profitable solutions for our clients.
Matt Durbin
FOUNDER, PRINCIPAL
Matt is a 35+ year on-premise beverage alcohol industry veteran with experience across some of the leading restaurant, entertainment, and beverage alcohol brands, and has built an extensive and unparalleled network throughout the industry. He is an acclaimed public speaker and thought leader who has developed strategy for numerous restaurant and beverage alcohol brands. Matt previously served as Vice President of Brand and Beverage Marketing for TGI Fridays and as Chief Marketing Officer for multi-concept bar and restaurant group, Fox & Hound Restaurant Group. Though it’s been a few years since he was behind the bar crafting his famous Long Island Iced Teas, he still proudly holds the titles of Master Bartender and World Champion Bartender.
Heather Durbin
PRINCIPAL
Heather is a 30-year retail marketing, promotions, and activation expert with a proven track record of turning consumer insights into high-impact marketing programs that drive traffic and build brand affinity. She began her career at Blockbuster Entertainment, where she led all channel marketing for the company’s multi-billion-dollar film business, developing integrated campaigns in partnership with major studios. Heather went on to serve as Director of Marketing at TGI Fridays, where she led promotional strategy and execution for a $1.5B, 465-unit restaurant system, managing cross-functional teams, agencies, and multi-million-dollar budgets while delivering measurable sales growth. A partnership marketing specialist, she has developed and executed game-changing collaborations with premium spirits brands and led large-scale national activations, including high-profile events and integrated campaigns. As Principal of Durbin Consulting Group, Heather spearheads marketing strategy, PR, and social media activation for restaurant and retail clients, bringing a results-driven approach to every engagement.
Ethan Goodman
ANALYTICS ASSOCIATE
Ethan is a data-driven analytics professional with a strong foundation in business intelligence, financial modeling, and client advisory. He holds a Master of Science in Business Analytics from Southern Methodist University and brings over four years of experience delivering data-driven solutions. He specializes in translating complex data into clear, actionable insights, developing forecasting models and customized reporting solutions that drive strategic decision-making and operational performance. Known for combining technical expertise with strong communication and leadership skills, Ethan has consistently improved efficiency, streamlined operations, and uncovered meaningful growth opportunities. He has experience managing large-scale supplier accounts and building analytics frameworks that align closely with business objectives across diverse industries.
James Renz
CONTROLLER
James is a Certified Management Accountant with over 10 years of experience in financial reporting, accounting, and operational control. He currently serves as Corporate Controller for a privately held consumer goods company and brings four years of controller-level leadership experience. James began his career in public accounting before spending six years in the chemical industry with a publicly traded company, where he developed deep expertise in financial operations and reporting. A veteran of the United States Army, he brings a disciplined, detail-oriented approach to financial management and organizational leadership. James holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Ohio Dominican University and an MBA with a concentration in Accounting from American Military University.
TALK TO US
Ready to elevate your beverage program?
Contact us to explore how DCG can help optimize your program’s profitability and guest experience.