Kelly Brightwell
Strategy Director, Khemistry
Kelly is a brand strategist with more than 15 years of industry experience developing robust, insights driven brand and marketing strategies for brands including Suncorp, Virgin Australia, Nature’s Own and Lorna Jane. Recently, she made the leap from client to agency side joining the incredible team at Khemistry as their Strategy Director. As your mentor, Kelly will encourage you to push past your comfort zone, understand what motivates you, play to your strengths and foster powerful relationships.
Career & Background
What inspired you to do what you are doing now?
As a kid, I’d crack out my pencils and redesign logos in my spare time; The World’s Funniest Commercials was my favourite TV show and my brother and I would drive my parents nuts on road trips singing jingles for hours. I’ve loved our industry as long as I can remember!
Where are you headed in your career right now?
I’ve have two children in the last three years which has meant my career aspirations have needed to drop down a gear while I take time off. I’m thrilled to be returning from Maternity Leave in May so that I can pin my ears back and return my focus to building my career. Now with two little people at home, loving what I do is even more important to me.
Your favourite food for thought
Podcasts / Thought Leaders
@elonmusk : I’m really intrigued by Elon Musk and my recent Tesla purchase has really got me hooked on the Tesla brand.
What the Flux podcast // for a quick hit of business news each morning.
Brené Brown // Unlocking Us podcast: only a couple of episodes in, so far it’s great!
What drives and inspires you
What are your core values?
- Authenticity
- Courage
- Leadership
Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
I draw on a range of people to inspire me. While there’s so many truly inspiring people in this world, we all have our strengths and weaknesses. When it comes to building a culture and leading, I draw on Sir Richard Branson. During times of unrest and restructure at work I am inspired by my leader’s resilience and ability to influence. When I’m exhausted and sick of juggling work and home I am inspired by my Mum who worked shift work while completing her Masters degree and raising a pair of hellish teenagers.
You as a Mentor
Why have you decided to become a mentor?
I’ve benefited from having some really incredible mentors and advocates throughout my career and I’d love to be able to pay it forward.
What are the top 5 skills or qualities you bring to mentoring?
- Asking powerful questions
- Collaborative
- Empathic
- Intuitive
- Passionate
Ready to be a part of Assisterhood as a Mentee?
We are now up and running in QLD and VIC – and we’re only just getting started! Let’s shoot for the stars – together!