Kelly Farrell
Kelly Farrell is the Associate Director of Communications Strategy at Bader Rutter, where she leads advertising strategy, client-facing communication, and the development of proposals and presentations that bring advertising philosophies and go-to-market plans to life. With over a decade of experience in marketing and communications, including approximately eight years with Bader Rutter, Kelly has built a reputation for crafting advocacy-driven strategies that deliver meaningful results across diverse industries. She holds certifications in Advanced Google Analytics, Google Ads Fundamentals, and Google Ads Search, allowing her to leverage data and insights to drive campaigns that are both innovative and measurable.
Kelly’s professional expertise spans advocacy-focused communications and advertising strategy for clients in food production, agriculture, veterinary care—including both large-animal and companion care—and packaged goods and food and beverage sectors. She approaches her work through a “triple bottom line” lens, balancing profitability with social responsibility and environmental sustainability. Over the course of her career, Kelly has led complex pitches, developed RFP responses, and strengthened client relationships, while managing comprehensive social media campaigns, content strategies, and performance analytics. Her ability to translate insights into actionable strategies has consistently helped clients achieve their business goals while advancing brand purpose.
Outside of her professional life, Kelly is deeply committed to her family and community. She is a devoted mom and foster mom who enjoys spending time with her children and husband, often going on runs together to stay active. She also has a passion for interior decorating, bringing creativity and thoughtful design into her home and personal projects. In addition, Kelly contributes to her community through volunteer work, including her long-term involvement with Habitat for Humanity ReStore. Her personal and professional pursuits reflect a dedication to meaningful engagement, creativity, and making a positive impact on the people and communities around her.
• Advanced Google Analytics
• Google Ads Search Certification
• Google Ads Fundamentals
• University of Wisconsin-La Crosse - BS, Advocacy Communication; Economics
• Bridges - board member
• Wellpoint Foster Agency
• Habitat for Humanity ReStore
• Board member, Bridges
What do you attribute your success to?
She attributes success to advocacy skills: the ability to create, explain, advocate for, and activate ideas and strategies; and to balance advocacy with clear business impact so recommendations are actionable for clients.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Veterinary care deserts and shortages of large-animal veterinarians (and the resulting physical and mental toll) are important challenges and areas for advocacy.
- In food production and agriculture, seasonality and continuous market activity mean constant iteration of messaging and campaigns—both a challenge and an opportunity for creativity and impact.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Advocacy, social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and balancing business profitability with positive social and environmental outcomes. Family and service (through foster care) are also emphasized.