The finalists for WashingtonExec’s Chief Officer Awards were announced March 28, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person May 10.
Next is Shannon Kelley, chief growth officer at Magellan Federal, and finalist in the Public & Private Company Chief Growth Officer (Annual Revenue Greater than $100M and Less than $500M) category. Here, she shares key achievements, focus areas going forward, career advice and more.
What key achievements did you have in 2023?
The past year marked a period of significant transformation for Magellan Federal. Among our proudest accomplishments was securing the Personal Financial Counseling contract to provide financial management counseling to service members and their families. The contract has a total estimated annual revenue of $60 million and includes over 370 counselors globally. This win broadened our service offerings and enabled us to support military personnel and their families in new ways.
In the human performance space, our team’s collaborative efforts led to developing a holistic virtual coaching product to enhance mission readiness and overall wellbeing. These milestones reflect our commitment to innovation and service excellence.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are those so important to the mission?
Looking ahead, my focus remains on fostering a high-performance culture within our organization. This entails ongoing process refinement, nurturing strategic partnerships and maintaining a steadfast commitment to our mission. By prioritizing these areas, we ensure that we are not just meeting but exceeding the expectations of our valued clientele.
What is your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
For those aspiring to walk a similar path, I offer two simple yet powerful principles: Curiosity and authenticity. Embrace curiosity as a driving force for continuous learning and growth. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who inspire and challenge you.
Furthermore, stay true to yourself, your values and your vision. Authenticity fosters genuine connections and builds trust, both essential components of effective leadership.
Fun Fact: What is something about you that most people do not know about?
Despite my dislike for cold water, I love to surf!