Kirk Ahlquist
Head of Digital Strategy & Marketing Innovator
With over 20 years of expertise in digital marketing, I help businesses transform their online presence through strategic SEO, targeted PPC, compelling content strategy, and user-centric web design. As the Co-Founder of unKAGEd Media, a Digital Agency, I've dedicated my career to helping brands achieve exceptional digital growth and measurable results.
My approach combines deep technical knowledge with strategic insights, ensuring your digital marketing investments deliver real business value. Whether you're looking to increase visibility, generate qualified leads, or optimize your conversion rates, I bring proven methodologies and innovative solutions to every project.
Featured Resources & Expert Insights:
20+ Years of Experience
20+ Years Leading Digital Innovation and Keynote Speaking
From pioneering early SEO strategies to managing complex SaaS and Digital Marketing operations at unKAGEd Media Agency, Marketopia, Socius and BlueWater Media driving digital transformation across industries.
Keynote Speaker on dozens of occasions
300+ SEO & PPC Campaigns
Successfully launched and optimized hundreds of search and paid campaigns, achieving average ROI improvements of 150% for clients across B2B and technology sectors.
ROAS in most of my campaigns exceed 500% by the 12th month.
200+ Website Development Projects
Delivered comprehensive digital solutions combining UX/UI design excellence with strategic lead generation, resulting in measurable business growth for SMBs, eCommerce, Healthcare, Home Improvement, MSPs and Tech companies.
SEO & PPC
Achieve Page 1 rankings for MSP and IT service keywords with our proven SEO strategies. We've helped technology companies increase organic traffic by 300%+ through technical optimization, local SEO, and authoritative content targeting high-value searches like "managed IT services" and "cybersecurity solutions."
Strategic Google Ads
Generate qualified B2B leads through precision-targeted Google and Microsoft Ads campaigns. We specialize in creating high-converting ad funnels for IT services, maintaining CPL under $200 while delivering 15-25 qualified leads monthly through strategic keyword targeting and compelling ad copy.
Data-Driven Optimization
Transform your marketing metrics with continuous optimization. Using tools like Google Analytics 4, Hotjar, and specialized CRO techniques, we've helped MSPs achieve 25%+ improvement in form submission rates and reduced bounce rates by 40% through systematic A/B testing and user behavior analysis.
Web Development
Responsive Web Design
Delivering mobile-first websites that drive results across all devices, with proven expertise in WordPress, Webflow, and custom CMS solutions. My responsive designs have achieved up to 40% higher engagement rates and 25% lower bounce rates for MSPs and tech companies.
UI/UX Expertise
Drawing on 300+ successful website projects, I craft intuitive interfaces that convert. My strategic approach combines heat mapping, A/B testing, and user journey optimization to create experiences that routinely achieve 150%+ improvements in lead generation for B2B clients.
Robust Development
Building enterprise-grade solutions using React, Node.js, and modern API architectures. My websites achieve 90+ PageSpeed scores, with secure infrastructures that handle 100K+ monthly visitors. Specializing in seamless integrations with CRM, marketing automation, and MSP service platforms.
UX/UI Design

I have a lot more written opinions on the differences between UX & UI and btw - this site is NOT a reflection on my UX/UI Design ideas. lol This is simply a portfolio site of strategy.

Download my Presentation on the Difference between UX/UI.
User-Centered Approach
Through extensive user research and iterative testing, I've achieved 40%+ improvement in user task completion rates for MSP client portals. My redesigns have reduced support tickets by 35% by creating intuitive self-service interfaces that help customers navigate complex IT service catalogs with confidence.
Responsive Design
Specializing in mobile-first SaaS platforms, I've helped technology companies achieve 99.9% cross-device compatibility. Recent projects include modernizing legacy MSP dashboards into responsive interfaces that increased mobile user engagement by 250% while maintaining sub-2-second load times.
Visual Branding
I've developed comprehensive design systems for 50+ B2B technology brands, creating cohesive visual languages that scale across all digital touchpoints. My strategic approach combines data-driven UI patterns with distinctive brand elements, resulting in 28% higher conversion rates and 45% improved brand recognition scores.
SaaS Operational Management
Optimizing SaaS Infrastructure
Transform your cloud infrastructure with enterprise-grade optimization strategies that dynamically scale to meet peak demands while maintaining cost efficiency.
Streamlining Workflows
Revolutionize your operational efficiency through intelligent automation and refined processes that reduce manual intervention by up to 70%.
Enhancing Customer Experience
Harness real-time analytics and user behavior insights to deliver personalized experiences that boost customer retention and satisfaction scores.
Maximizing Uptime
Guarantee 99.9% service availability through advanced monitoring systems and predictive maintenance protocols that prevent issues before they impact users.
Digital Brand Consulting
Elevate Your Digital Presence
Transform your online identity with a compelling brand strategy that increases visibility by up to 300% and converts visitors into loyal customers through data-driven storytelling and strategic positioning.
Leverage Strategic Expertise
Benefit from two decades of proven success helping 500+ brands achieve their goals. My strategic approach combines cutting-edge digital trends with time-tested branding principles to deliver measurable ROI.
Tailored to Your Needs
Get a meticulously crafted digital strategy that seamlessly integrates your website, social media, and content marketing. Each solution is built from scratch based on deep market analysis and your unique business objectives.
Ongoing Support
Receive dedicated monthly optimization, real-time performance tracking, and priority consulting access. I ensure your digital brand evolves with market trends while maintaining consistent growth and engagement metrics.
Lead Generation Expertise
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Proven Strategies
Drawing from two decades of expertise, I implement multi-channel lead generation campaigns that blend advanced SEO techniques, targeted PPC advertising, and strategic email nurturing. My clients typically see a 200-300% increase in qualified leads within the first six months.
Data-Driven Approach
Every decision is backed by comprehensive data analysis and A/B testing. I leverage advanced analytics tools to track over 20 key performance metrics, continuously fine-tuning campaigns to maximize your ROI and capture the highest-quality leads in your market.
Creative Flair
Beyond the metrics, I craft compelling narratives that resonate with your target audience. From attention-grabbing headlines to persuasive call-to-actions, my content consistently achieves click-through rates 50% above industry averages and turns casual browsers into eager prospects.
Personalized Touch
Your business deserves more than a one-size-fits-all solution. I begin each partnership with an in-depth discovery session, developing a customized lead generation blueprint that aligns perfectly with your industry, audience, and revenue goals. Regular strategy sessions ensure we stay agile and responsive to market changes.
Proven Track Record

Through strategic digital marketing and relentless innovation, I've transformed businesses from struggling with online visibility to dominating their market segments. My data-backed strategies don't just deliver numbers – they create lasting business impact.
20+
Years of Digital Excellence
Mastering evolving digital landscapes while consistently staying ahead of industry trends and technologies
300%
ROI for Client Campaigns
Delivering exponential growth in qualified leads and conversion rates through targeted strategies
200+
Success Stories
Organizations empowered to achieve and exceed their digital marketing objectives
Behind every metric lies a carefully crafted strategy, combining deep industry insights with cutting-edge techniques. My adaptive approach ensures that each client receives a customized solution that not only meets their immediate goals but establishes a foundation for sustained growth and market leadership.
Clients Love Working with Me
🗣️Exceptional Communication
Through weekly updates, detailed reports, and responsive communication channels, I ensure clients are always in the loop and confident about our progress.
🪡 Tailored Solutions
By conducting thorough market analysis and in-depth strategy sessions, I develop perfectly customized approaches that align with each client's unique market position and objectives.
đź’Ż Proven Results
My strategies have consistently delivered 200%+ ROI for clients, with documented case studies showcasing transformative growth across various industries.
🙌 Collaborative Spirit
I believe in true partnership, actively incorporating client expertise and feedback while providing clear guidance and strategic direction for optimal outcomes.
Creative Mastermind
I transform brands through strategic creativity, combining artistic vision with data-driven insights to deliver exceptional digital experiences. My portfolio spans from award-winning brand identities to high-converting content strategies that capture audience imagination. What sets me apart is my ability to transform complex challenges into elegant solutions - whether it's reimagining your visual identity, crafting compelling narratives, or developing innovative digital campaigns that consistently exceed expectations.
Plays Well with Others
Team Catalyst
I energize group dynamics and excel at uniting diverse perspectives toward common goals.
Strategic Mediator
I transform complex challenges into win-win solutions that advance team objectives.
Empathetic Communicator
I create trust through active listening and clear, purposeful dialogue that drives results.
Morale Amplifier
I cultivate an engaging workspace where creativity thrives and deadlines are met with enthusiasm.
Adaptability Expert
I navigate change with agility, turning unexpected challenges into opportunities for growth.
Brand Ambassador
I represent organizations with authenticity and polish across all professional platforms.
Innovation Catalyst
I discover breakthrough solutions by exploring uncharted territories with methodical precision.
Authentic Personality
I bring a refreshing blend of professionalism and wit that energizes team dynamics.
Testimonials about Kirk
Camaren Edson
Growth Consultant - Vendors | Marketopia
I have had the pleasure of working with Kirk for over a year, during which he provided invaluable insights into the intricacies of marketing. Coming from a limited marketing background, I was consistently impressed by Kirk's exceptional ability to break down complex marketing concepts with remarkable clarity and patience. His teaching approach was particularly noteworthy, as he masterfully translated abstract marketing principles into accessible, relatable explanations.

One standout example of Kirk's expertise was his illuminating analogy comparing Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising to a website's operational mechanism. By likening PPC to a turbo boost for a website's engine, he transformed a potentially confusing concept into a tangible and memorable learning experience. His profound understanding of marketing strategies and exceptional communication skills were instrumental in my professional growth and success.

Kirk's leadership goes beyond mere management – he is a true mentor who empowers team members by fostering a deep, comprehensive understanding of marketing principles. His ability to educate, inspire, and guide makes him an asset to any team!
Scott Sullivan
Call Center Executive Lead | Marketopia

Kirk is one of the most knowledgeable and forward-thinking marketers I have encountered in the industry. With a deep understanding of digital strategy and a proven ability to drive results, Kirk consistently delivers exceptional outcomes for clients. His solution-oriented approach ensures that every challenge is met with innovative and effective strategies.

Kirk excels at optimizing digital campaigns to generate interest, capture leads, and achieve measurable success. His keen insights and ability to adapt to the latest marketing trends set him apart, making him an invaluable asset to any organization.

Beyond his expertise, Kirk’s positive attitude and collaborative nature make him a pleasure to work with.
I highly recommend Kirk for any organization seeking to elevate their digital marketing strategy and achieve outstanding results!
Issac Altman
CEO | Panda Technology
I have had the pleasure of working with Kirk for the past two years, and I can confidently say that he is an exceptional digital marketing leader. As a client, I have seen firsthand the level of dedication, expertise, and creativity he brings to every project and for his team.

Throughout our time working together, Kirk consistently exceeded expectations. His ability to create tailored strategies that resonate with our target audience has been invaluable to the success of our campaigns. Whether it was managing our social media presence, executing SEO strategies, or optimizing paid advertising, Kirk always delivered results that aligned with our business goals.

What stands out most about Kirk is his proactive approach and keen attention to detail. He doesn’t just take instructions; he listens, analyzes, and provides insightful recommendations to elevate the work. His deep understanding of digital marketing trends and analytics helped us stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving industry.

Above all, Kirk is a true professional—punctual, communicative, and always ready to go the extra mile. It’s been a true pleasure collaborating with him, and I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a skilled and reliable digital marketing leader.
Melissa Rocheford
Safety Manager | Compass Group | Shell Oil
I had the great pleasure of working with Kirk while at Compass Group at the Shell Oil & Gas client location in Houston, TX.

As the Safety Coordinator, I had to work with Kirk to utilize his marketing, creative and communication skills often particularly on how we will communicate safety measures to the guests, the Shell client and to our employees.
We frequently developed strategies and presented them together.

Kirk is a great colleague and I would eagerly work with him again.
Testimonials about Kirk
Eva LaRosa
General Manager | ARAMARK CORRECTIONAL SERVICES, LLC

I have worked with Kirk for over 5 years. Kirk is a great leader who's work always reflects his high standards. Kirk is never satisfied with the status quo and is always willing to see all sides of an issue. Working along side Kirk has helped me be a better manager and it is always a pleasure to take on any project with him as the outcome is nothing short of excellent.
Paul Andreson, PhD
Director of The Coral Reef Aquarium Fisheries Campaign
Kirk is a personal friend of mine for many years. Kirk values and nurtures the relationships he builds with people all around him. He is a listener, adaptable, and has a talent for building a climate of consensus and teamwork among a group of people to forge ahead thoughtfully and strategically. This is what has made him so successful as a leader in his career, and I look forward to seeing what great accomplishments he will achieve with a worthy team in his next chapter.
Abinash Mishra
CRO | Google Analytics | Adobe Analytics | Performance Marketing(Google & Facebook Ad) | SEM | Tag Manager
I strongly believe Kirk has great leadership qualities. He always keeps beliefs in his team whatever the circumstances, always inspire others, give credits and fixes any issues without faulting others. I never met someone who has such soft-spoken but when the situation demands he get strict and extremely exact. I got strength and confidence when I tried new things because I know Kirk is there when I need a backup.
During his association, I had got substantial growth professionally and financially. He has great knowledge on Online Marketing. Adapted bunches of things that I beyond any doubt will help me in my future.

I truly honored because I got an opportunity to work under him and hope to work with him in future too. Thank you for believing in me. You are Awesommeeee!
Vishwajeet Kumar
Founder & Consultant at Digital Aid - Amazon & eCommerce Agency
I have had the opportunity to work with Kirk personally and remotely for more than a year and during the period, I find him a great mentor with the down to earth personality who always supports you and ready to help even in busiest time. His foremost and important quality of leading, supporting and helping was incredible and helped me a lot during our time working together.
If you ever get a chance to associate or work with him, feel fortunate.