ABOUT MCK
For over two decades, Mary has worked with leaders in global companies and diverse industries helping them develop courage, drive change and build culture. She has a deep passion for helping leaders and organizations realize their greatest potential in work and life and has dedicated her career to developing tested and proven techniques to deliver results. Through her work with senior leaders, Mary has learned that leadership takes courage; the courage to ask questions and listen. The courage to tell the truth and do the right thing, even when unpopular. And most importantly, the courage to be true to yourself and to take action.
Leadership courage is the fuel that drives change and builds culture.
Mary has cultivated an extensive portfolio of experience and best practices in Talent Management, Leadership Development and Change Management through senior leadership roles in organizations that include Marriott International, Honeywell International, Mattel Inc., Pacific Sunwear of California, Bank of America and MGM Resorts
International. Additionally, she led the growth of a global e-commerce company during the internet startup boom. She is recognized as a “truth teller” that leaders trust and rely on for practical solutions that deliver business results. She has a natural talent for cutting through the clutter and simplifying complex issues to the few, critical actions that deliver value. She brings a holistic view to organizational issues and challenges by leveraging her diverse experience, knowledge and global, commercial mindset.
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Bringing together her corporate experience and her personal passion, Mary is also the co-founder of the Women’s Hospitality Initiative, committed to developing and implementing programs for women to grow and achieve leadership positions. Working in partnership with board members and strategic advisors, she is responsible for leading the development and implementation of educational, mentoring and advocacy, and learning and leadership development programs to provide women in the hospitality industry the knowledge, skills, tools, and relationships necessary to excel and succeed in leadership roles. Through these programs, she is responsible for building a robust pipeline of female leaders that are positioned for hospitality leadership roles.
Mary holds a PhD and MA in Organizational Psychology from Alliant University and a BA in Psychology from the University of California, Irvine. She is also an active contributor to the field of Human Resources as an advisor, author and speaker. Mary is the proud mother of two boys and enjoys taking advantage of everything that life has to offer!
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-MARY CHOI KELLY, Ph.D
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