Kelly ODonnell
Chicago,IL
Summary
Client-focused executive leader with extensive experience in driving profitable growth and service excellence. Proven expertise in strategic business development and nurturing key partnerships. Consistently delivers on targets while ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Regional Vice President Sales
Guardian
Chicago, Illinois
09.2022 - Current
- Established and developed sales strategies for central region, driving profitable growth and retention while achieving sales targets.
- Led cross-functional teams to improve collaboration and enhance sales performance.
- Analyzed market trends to identify new business opportunities and address customer needs.
- Provided strategic guidance on product positioning and pricing within the region.
- Developed and maintained relationships with key brokers and clients to foster loyalty.
Director of Client Management
Guardian
Chicago, Illinois
06.2019 - 09.2022
- Led client management strategy across accounts 2 - 2000 lives.
- Improved persistency through structured renewal planning and early engagement.
- Standardized service model and stewardship practices.
- Built and developed client management talent.
- Strengthened collaboration across sales, client management, and underwriting.
Regional Service Manager
Guardian
Chicago, IL
04.2015 - 06.2019
- Managed sales support analysts and client managers to provide a positive customer experience.
- Collaborated with sales and client managers to align renewals and drive sales and retention.
- Facilitated communication between distribution and the home office to streamline service effectively.
Regional Relationship Manager
The Hartford
Chicago, IL
09.2006 - 04.2015
- Contributed to creation and rollout of assistant director for regional accounts role.
- Collaborated with RVPs and RDs to enhance synergy between sales and client management.
- Participated in monthly leadership meetings to identify growth strategies and improve retention.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
University of Wisconsin - Madison
Madison, WI05-1989
Skills
- Strategic revenue generation
- Relationship management
- Client experience strategy
- Retention optimization
- Service model design
- Talent development and coaching
Timeline
Regional Vice President Sales
Guardian
09.2022 - Current
Director of Client Management
Guardian
06.2019 - 09.2022
Regional Service Manager
Guardian
04.2015 - 06.2019
Regional Relationship Manager
The Hartford
09.2006 - 04.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
University of Wisconsin - Madison