Kelly Starnes

Kelly Starnes is a seasoned consultant, facilitator, and certified coach who partners with individuals and organizations to unlock potential, clarify purpose, and navigate change with intention. She specializes in helping early to mid-career leaders and high-performing individual contributors prepare for their next level of impact. By uncovering the values, beliefs, and blind spots that shape behavior, Kelly empowers her clients to move through obstacles and grow into the highest expression of their authentic selves.

 

Kelly holds the Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential from the International
Coaching Federation (ICF) and is certified in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the
Workplace through the University of South Florida. With more than 30 years of experience in sales, coaching, training, marketing, and management within the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, she brings deep insight and practical expertise to every client engagement.

 

She earned her B.S. in Biology and MBA – with concentrations in Human Resources and Marketing – from Wake Forest University. A proud Double Deac, Kelly served as President of the Wake Forest Black Alumni Association (2018–2022) and is currently in her second term on the university’s Alumni Council.

 

In 2023–2024, she served as a mentor and interviewer for AbbVie Inc.’s Sales Internship Program, supporting the development of emerging talent. A compelling speaker and facilitator, Kelly leads sessions on leadership, career development, motivation, and diversity and inclusion.