After 17+ years of proving myself, I stopped explaining my goals and simply owned the value, experience, and voice I worked hard to earn.
Keelia Schumacher · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Keelia
Keelia Schumacher is a seasoned Business Development Executive specializing in state and local government solutions, currently serving at Data Axle. With over 17 years of experience in sales enablement, marketing, and client relationship management, Keelia has developed a deep expertise in helping government agencies leverage data for research, planning, and strategic initiatives. Her approach is consultative and client-focused, ensuring each solution is customized to meet the unique challenges of her partners. Keelia began her career at 20 while bartending and attending college, initially interviewing with Data Axle (formerly InfoUSA) for a tele-research role before quickly advancing into sales. Over nearly two decades, she has progressed through roles from sales representative to sales manager, director of business development, and now public-sector executive. Along the way, she has led high-performing teams, driven multimillion-dollar revenue growth, and earned recognition such as President’s Club honors and direct commendation from company leadership. Beyond her professional achievements, Keelia values strong relationships, collaboration, and a “family” workplace culture. She balances her role with travel for trade shows and on-site client meetings while maintaining a focus on mentoring and empowering others, particularly women in sales. Passionate about the intersection of data, strategy, and relationship-building, Keelia continues to drive impact for her clients and her team, embodying persistence, tenacity, and a commitment to long-term success.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Keelia
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to building authentic relationships and fostering meaningful connections throughout my career. Early on, I navigated male-dominated environments by establishing my expertise and speaking up with confidence, which also empowered other women on my team to do the same. Over 17 years, the relationships I’ve cultivated and the sense of community within my company have been key to my growth and impact.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My biggest advice to young women entering this industry is to have the courage to speak up in rooms where you may feel out of place. Know that you deserve a seat at the table and that your voice matters. At the same time, don’t hesitate to seek mentorship and ask for guidance—building relationships and learning from others has been pivotal in my career. Your path doesn’t have to follow a set route; take the reins and shape your own journey.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field is the ability to expand my reach across large territories, like California, and provide tailored solutions to a diverse range of clients. The challenge has been transitioning from the private sector to the public sector in government work. It required in-depth research and understanding of how different states operate, from the ground up, to effectively navigate the unique processes and structures in this space.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are relationships, collaboration, and tenacity. I also prioritize maintaining professional integrity—always approaching situations thoughtfully and striving to “never burn a bridge.” These principles have been essential in building trust and long-term success.
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