Kelley Young
Kelley Young is a seasoned tax professional and the current Director of Indirect Tax at JBT Marel Corporation. With a career spanning over two decades, Kelley has built deep expertise across all facets of Indirect Tax, including Sales and Use Tax, VAT, GST, Property Tax, licensing, audit, exemption certificate management, and SOX compliance. She is highly skilled in system integration and configuration, having successfully implemented and managed tax platforms such as Vertex, Avalara, OneSource, and PTMS, with seamless integrations into ERP systems like SAP, JDE, Oracle, Infor, and AS400.
Throughout her career, Kelley has held senior tax leadership roles at globally recognized companies such as Centric Brands, Hanesbrands Inc., Red Lobster, and Sysco Foods, where she has consistently driven efficiency, compliance, and strategic innovation in tax operations. A graduate of Stetson University with a BBA in Accounting and Law, she recently earned the prestigious CMI (Certified Member of the Institute for Professionals in Taxation) designation, a testament to her expertise and dedication to the field. Kelley is known for her ability to build robust tax infrastructures and lead cross-functional teams through complex system transitions—all while maintaining a strong commitment to professional excellence.
• CMI Certification - Sales Tax
• Stetson University- B.B.A.
• IPT - Institute for Professionals in Taxation
• RISTAP - Restaurant Industry Sales Tax Audit Professionals (former)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute much of my success to my strong work ethic and determination to reach my goals. I try to surround myself with those that inspire me and am thankful for every opportunity. I am fortunate to have found those in abundance at JBT Marel. (Thank you, Liz Cunningham & Matt Meister!) I also have incredible colleagues who continually challenge me to learn and grow within my field. (Thank you, Jacob Dziedzic & John Fiore) My path wasn't traditional. I first married, then had children, then went to college, and then started my career. I would not have been able to succeed without the support of friends and family along the way. It does, indeed, take a village. One of my closest friends, who was also a college student at the time, would care for my 3 children as I attended class. (We ‘exchanged’ in the halls between classes.) Her support was instrumental to my success and she’s an inspiration to this day. (Thank you, Gloriann Sordo Cueto!)
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was, “Learn to manage data and technology or it will manage you.” (Thank you, Patrick McWilliams!) My first mentor, who happened to be my first female tax manager, empowered me to take ownership of finding solutions, provided the tools to do so, and allowed me to follow through to implementation. That experience was invaluable. In an environment often dominated by a ‘boys’ club’ mentality, she consistently demonstrated strength, integrity, and resilience. She didn’t just hold her ground – she elevated the standard. (Thank you, Amy Tice!)
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women to explore a career in indirect tax—even though many of us fall into it rather than pursue it intentionally. It’s a rewarding field for those who love problem-solving, and bringing structure to complexity. Being comfortable in managed chaos is also a big plus! This job is NEVER boring! There are far too few people in this space, and I’d love to see more women step in, grow, and lead!
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in indirect tax today is managing the sheer volume of data — while keeping up with constantly changing state laws and tax rates. The opportunity lies in leveraging technology and strong processes to stay ahead and ensure compliance at scale.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My parents instilled in me the values of hard work and integrity from an early age. They were not just encouraged – they were expected. Whatever I commit to, in life or work, deserves the best version of myself. (Thanks Mom & Dad!)