Brenda Kelly
President, Materials Technologies
Grace
Brenda Kelly, President of Materials Technologies at W.R. Grace, has built an inspiring career defined by adaptability, integrity, and a fearless embrace of change. From her early days as an intern in the chemical industry to leading global teams at one of the most respected names in materials science, Brenda’s journey reflects a deep commitment to growth—both personal and professional. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, lifelong learning, and leading with authenticity.
Embracing Change: Brenda believes that change is a powerful catalyst for growth. Over the years, she has taken on new roles, industries, and even continents, viewing each transition as an opportunity to learn and evolve. Her willingness to step outside her comfort zone has not only expanded her expertise but also strengthened her confidence as a leader.
Adaptability Through Transitions: Having relocated multiple times and worked across different sectors, Brenda credits her adaptability as one of her greatest strengths. Each move brought new challenges, but also fresh perspectives that shaped her leadership approach. These experiences taught her the importance of agility, knowing when to adjust, listen, and act decisively to move teams and organizations forward.
Building Winning Teams: A cornerstone of Brenda’s leadership philosophy is creating high-performing teams rooted in trust, collaboration, and authenticity. She focuses on fostering psychological safety, encouraging open dialogue, and ensuring every voice is heard. For Brenda, success comes not from individual achievements, but from collective strength and shared purpose.
Balancing Confidence and Well-Being: Amid her demanding career, Brenda has learned the importance of maintaining balance and setting clear boundaries. She prioritizes time for herself and her family, understanding that true success requires both professional fulfillment and personal well-being. She believes that confidence begins from within and when individuals feel supported and valued, their best work naturally follows.
Advice for the WIC Community: She encourages women to trust themselves and the power of their inner dialogue, reminding us that how we think and feel internally shapes how we show up externally. She also emphasizes the importance of watching people’s actions, not just their words, as true character and leadership are revealed through behavior.
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