By CommPro.biz Editorial StaffBrand Connections, an independent and integrated marketing agency, opens a new office in Minneapolis, its eighth office in the U.S. The company also announces the hiring of Minneapolis native and brand marketing executive, Josh Ahlberg, as its new Vice President of the Central region.“Expansion into Minneapolis represents our commitment to top clients and our continued investment into our core areas of expertise — Retail, Beauty and CPG,” states Sherry Orel, CEO, Brand Connections.Ahlberg has over a decade of experience working with multi-billion dollar businesses, including General Mills, Kraft Heinz and Best Buy.As Vice President of the Central region, Ahlberg will be headquartered in Minneapolis and responsible for leading new business efforts throughout the Midwest. “Josh has an extensive background in agency work, brand management and promotional marketing. He’s the ideal person to lead our Central sales effort,” said Christine Clark, EVP of Sales & Marketing for Brand Connections.Ahlberg is best known for his strategic brand marketing and his ability to build long lasting, deep-rooted relationships. "I am excited for the opportunity and thrilled to help Brand Connections continue to grow,” Ahlberg said.In addition to their new office in Minneapolis, Brand Connections also operates in New York, Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago, Miami, Denver and New Jersey.