The strengths that help you grow can also become the things that weigh you down. The next level of growth is about being intentional about where you make the greatest impact.
Kelli Pilkington · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Kelli
**Kelli Pilkington** is Vice President of Marketing at Flagship Restaurant Group, where she leads an in-house team responsible for marketing strategy, creative services, digital marketing, brand development, and customer engagement across the company's portfolio of 14 restaurant brands and more than 50 locations nationwide. With more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, including approximately 11 years in marketing leadership, she has built a reputation for driving measurable business growth through innovative, integrated marketing strategies. Her unique perspective, rooted in extensive operational experience, enables her to align marketing initiatives with restaurant performance and guest experience while fostering a collaborative, high-performing team culture.
Pilkington began her career in the restaurant industry, advancing through roles as a bar manager, chef, general manager, and restaurant opening specialist before transitioning into corporate marketing. After being recruited to Raising Cane's, she further expanded her expertise in restaurant marketing and was later recruited to Flagship Restaurant Group, where she progressed from Director of Marketing to Vice President. She holds an Associate's Degree in Business Administration (Marketing) from Southeast Community College and attributes her success to hard work, dedication, continuous learning, and mentoring others. Her leadership philosophy is built on empathy, innovation, and helping organizations grow while developing the next generation of industry professionals.
Beyond her executive responsibilities, Pilkington is an active advocate for hospitality education and workforce development. She serves as a Board Director for the Nebraska Hospitality Association, is a member of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Hospitality, Restaurant & Tourism Management Program Advisory Board, and supports ProStart as both a judge and mentor for aspiring hospitality professionals. Recognized for her contributions to the industry, she has been featured in *Hospitality Business Review* and was selected for the *Influential Women 2026* edition representing Omaha, Nebraska. Guided by values of kindness, respect, and service, she remains committed to advancing the hospitality industry while making a meaningful impact on the people and communities she serves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kelli
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, dedication, and never giving up on my goals and dreams. Growing up in the restaurant industry allowed me to build my leadership skills from the ground up, progressing through hands-on roles before transitioning into marketing leadership. I believe in being a strong mentor, committing to continuous learning, and striving to make a positive difference every day.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is, "The more you know, the more you grow." I believe in putting myself out there, exploring new opportunities to discover what I truly want, and always being a good listener because there is something valuable to learn from every experience and every person.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to never be afraid of the unknown. Keep pushing forward, stand tall and proud, and always know your worth. Believe in your abilities, embrace new opportunities with confidence, and never let uncertainty stop you from pursuing your goals.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest opportunities in my field is continuing to support our company's vision and strategic goals while driving sustainable growth. As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, marketing must remain innovative, adaptable, and closely aligned with business objectives to help organizations expand successfully.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I believe in treating everyone with kindness and respect while bringing positivity into every interaction. I value helping others, serving those in need, and maintaining a willingness to learn, grow, and embrace new experiences. These values guide both my professional leadership and my personal life.
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