Open to opportunities

Catherine Kelly

@catherinekelly

Message

Experienced operations executive with a focus on strategic partnerships.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role in a high-growth business that values sustainability and strong brand identity, where I can leverage my operational expertise and strategic insights.

With over 17 years of experience in operational and strategic partnerships, I have successfully driven growth in early-stage and high-growth consumer-focused businesses, particularly in the apparel, wellness, and sustainable goods sectors. My journey has been marked by a hands-on approach to business growth, where I have initiated and streamlined systems to optimize operational performance, particularly in companies with revenues ranging from $100M to $300M.

As the Chief Operating Officer at Geosphere LLC, I managed a $5.5 million investment to launch a first-to-market home compostable cup line, establishing strategic partnerships and securing enterprise-level engagements. My previous roles, including co-founding Athletic Gaines and 4th Avenue Apparel, have further honed my skills in operations, sales, and team building, allowing me to create impactful programs that serve underserved communities and promote sustainable practices.

My academic background includes a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a Business Growth and Strategy Certificate from Goldman Sachs. I am now seeking my next challenge in a high-growth business that values strong brand identity and sustainability.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Chief Operating Officer & Head of Strategic Partnerships

Current

Geosphere LLC

Sep 2018 - Present (6 years 9 months)

Managed a $5.5 million investment over six years to achieve a first-to-market home compostable cup line. Implemented operational buildout including U.S.-based manufacturing, regulatory certification, inventory system, client relationships, and financial oversight.

Investment Management Product Development Manufacturing Regulatory Compliance Inventory Management Client Relationship Management Strategic Partnerships

Co-Founder | Head of Operations & Strategic Partnerships

Athletic Gaines at CATZ

Dec 2016 - Present (8 years 6 months)

Launched and led a specialized training program for underserved student-athletes and formerly incarcerated adults. Secured district and community partnerships to deliver speed, agility, and conditioning training, increasing access to college scholarships.

Program Development Strategic Partnerships Community Engagement Curriculum Development Operations Management Project Management Public Relations Team Leadership

Co-Founder | Head of Operations & Sales

4th Avenue Apparel, LLC

Jul 2012 - Present (12 years 11 months)

Co-founded a women’s ready-to-wear apparel brand focused on sustainable sourcing and functional fashion. Led operations and go-to-market execution, including retail and wholesale strategies, and built an end-to-end supply chain emphasizing ethical sourcing and lean inventory.

Sourcing Supply Chain Management Wholesale Strategy Go To Market Inventory Management Sales Growth

Director of Ecommerce

Affliction Clothing

Oct 2011 - Present (13 years 8 months)

Led digital commerce for a globally recognized lifestyle brand, focusing on improving customer experience, digital merchandising, and operational alignment. Streamlined digital strategy, resulting in improved site performance and increased conversion rates.

Customer Experience Digital Strategy Site Performance Conversion Rate Optimization Campaign Management Online Revenue Growth

Director of Ecommerce

Linea Pelle

Apr 2011 - Present (14 years 2 months)

Managed the digital strategy and ecommerce platform for a premium leather goods company during a brand refresh and digital scale-up. Directed rebranding efforts, enhancing the customer journey and boosting engagement.

Digital Strategy ECommerce Platforms Brand Refresh Customer Journey Training Development

Head of Field Marketing & Ecommerce

Taryn Rose

Sep 2008 - Present (16 years 9 months)

Led national field marketing and ecommerce for a luxury footwear brand, aligning digital and retail strategies to drive growth. Boosted brand awareness through targeted campaigns supporting retail partners and enhanced ecommerce performance, increasing sales and customer retention.

Field Marketing Ecommerce Digital Strategy Brand Awareness Sales Growth Customer Retention

Special Education Administrator and Teacher

Los Angeles Unified School District

Jan 1993 - Present (32 years 5 months)

Served as a Special Education Administrator and Teacher within the Los Angeles Unified School District. Focused on providing educational support and administrative oversight for students with special needs.

Teaching Curriculum Development Classroom Management Regulatory Compliance Team Collaboration

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program

Certificate, Business Growth and Strategy

Completed the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program, focusing on business growth and strategy. This executive education program provided insights into scaling businesses and optimizing operational performance.

Alliant University

Doctorate, Clinical Psychology

Earned a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, developing expertise in psychological principles and their application. This advanced degree provided a strong foundation in human behavior and mental health.

California State University, Los Angeles

Master's, Special Education

Obtained a Master's in Special Education, focusing on educational strategies for diverse learners. This program prepared for roles in public education as an administrator and teacher.

University of Southern California

Bachelor's, Education

Completed a Bachelor's in Education, gaining foundational knowledge in teaching methodologies and educational theories. This degree prepared for a career in public education.