Kelli E. Palmer, Ph.D. is a strategist and business leader with expertise in
enterprise leadership, operations, organizational strategy and execution,
and driving performance in complex environments.
Working at the intersection of operations, organizational effectiveness, and forward-looking strategy, Kelli helps organizations translate priorities into clear direction, aligned execution, and measurable results. Her approach is practical and grounded. She takes the time to understand what is really happening beneath the surface, brings structure to complexity, and aligns operating priorities, leadership, and ways of working to move things forward in a way that balances business performance with broader corporate citizenship commitments.
When those elements come together, organizations operate differently. Teams move with greater clarity, decisions happen with more discipline, and execution becomes more consistent and impactful. Kelli also brings a strong fiduciary lens to this work, ensuring that decisions align to enterprise priorities, risk considerations, and long-term value creation.
At the core of her work is a simple belief:
When organizations are clear on what matters and teams are aligned to deliver, performance follows.
Download Kelli's Resume | Executive Bio
Education | Kelli was raised in Montgomery County, Maryland and attended Elon University, where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and remains an active member of the Board of Trustees. She holds a Master's Degree in Counselor Education from Wake Forest University and a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Virginia. A lifelong learner, she has also studied at Oxford University and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and holds graduate certificates from Boston College and Harvard University.
Board Service & Volunteerism | Kelli is an active contributor to nonprofit boards and civic organizations, currently serving on the boards of Elon University and the University of Virginia Physicians Group. She has previously served on the boards of Peabody School, Piedmont Virginia Community College Foundation, United Way of Greater Charlottesville, Charlottesville Area Community Foundation, Live Arts, and the Center for Nonprofit Excellence, among others.
Community | Kelli is a proud, long-term resident of Charlottesville, Virginia, where she lives with her husband and their children. A classically trained vocalist and former member of the Washington Opera Company, she brings the same discipline and attention to craft to everything she does — on stage and off.
Media | Kelli is media-trained and a routine presence in local and national press. A keynote speaker, podcast guest, and conference host, her appearances span investment management, inclusive practice, organizational leadership, women in technology, and corporate citizenship. Her experience reaching 20,000+ viewers as host of the CFA Institute's Virtual Link, alongside radio interviews, fireside chats, and speaking engagements from Barcelona to Bentonville, reflects her ability to connect across audiences and topic areas. Learn more here.