Kelli Kelly
Kelli (Beckman) Kelly is an accomplished business development leader with over 15 years of experience driving revenue growth, building strategic partnerships, and leading high-performing teams. As Business Development Manager at Universal Recycling Technologies (URT), part of Hendricks Holding Co. (HHC), Kelli oversees market expansion and manages strategic relationships with Fortune 500 clients, creating customized solutions that advance their sustainability initiatives. In her first year at URT, she closed over $12 million in new business, strengthening the company’s market position and demonstrating her ability to deliver measurable results.
Earlier in her career, Kelli held senior sales and operations roles with global leaders in sustainability and recycling, where she managed strategic accounts and drove international revenue growth. She has consistently led teams and entire locations, fostering strong leadership cultures, developing top talent, and executing strategies that enhance operational efficiency and commercial success. Her expertise spans account management, sales strategy, business development, and customer retention, with a proven track record of delivering transformative business outcomes.
Kelli currently serves as a Board Member of The Recycling Society, reflecting her deep passion for recycling, circularity, and environmental sustainability. She is committed to advancing digital transformation, inspiring teams, and driving innovation across the organizations she serves. With her blend of strategic vision, commercial acumen, and dedication to sustainability, Kelli continues to influence the future of global sustainable business while delivering long-term value for her clients and communities.
• Del Carnegy Leadership 1999
• University of Missouri-Kansas City
• The Recycling Society
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being a great listener and taking the time to truly understand the needs of others before responding. Whether through thoughtful follow-up emails or meaningful conversations, I focus on absorbing all the details and building trust. Strong relationships built on that trust have been the foundation of my career and the key to achieving lasting results.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to remember that everyone is human, no matter their level or title. Treat everyone with respect, honesty, and fairness, and always value their time. Approaching people this way builds trust, fosters strong relationships, and creates a positive professional reputation that lasts throughout your career.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to always practice full transparency. Not all companies follow through on their recycling obligations or sustainable practices, and clients may be skeptical when a new company enters the space. Being honest, clear, and upfront about what you can deliver builds trust, credibility, and long-lasting relationships—qualities that are essential for success in this field.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field stem from how competitive the industry is. To succeed, it’s important to do your homework, understand your value, and approach every opportunity with confidence and a personable attitude. Those who combine expertise with strong relationship-building skills can turn challenges into meaningful opportunities for growth and success.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The value that guides me most in both my work and personal life is honesty. Being transparent, straightforward, and authentic in every interaction helps me build trust, maintain strong relationships, and make decisions I can stand behind with confidence. I’ve been married for 12 years and am proud to be a mom to a 27-year-old son and a 30-year-old daughter, as well as a grandmother to four wonderful grandchildren. I love traveling with my husband—Cabo San Lucas is a favorite spot—reading self-help and mystery/thriller books, enjoying movies, and playing cards with friends and family.
Locations
Kansas City, MO 64024