My Story
The underdog who built something for everyone.
Kelly grew up on a council estate in the North East of England. Nothing about her start in life suggested she would one day build a multi-million pound technology company.
She joined the police because she wanted to protect people. She left to build businesses because she wanted to help them grow. She has spent 25 years doing exactly that.
Kelly — Hartlepool, Co. Durham
The path
Twenty-five years, one through-line.
Early career
Police service
Joined the police because she wanted to protect people.
Founder
Adept Recruitment
Built a recruitment firm grounded in honesty and people-first practice.
Founder
Ethical payroll company
Took on an industry that needed transparency. Did it her way.
Appointed
Durham University Visiting Fellow
Recognised for impact in entrepreneurship and community.
Founder & CEO
KLIK SaaS™ founded
A white-label community platform built for any organisation.
Funded
SEIS raise · EIS Advance Assurance
Pre-revenue valuation: £6 million.
"I didn't have the odds in my favour. I just had the determination to prove them wrong."
— Kelly
What I stand for
Four words. No exceptions.
Community
Nobody builds anything worthwhile alone.
Honesty
Tell the truth, even when it's hard.
Hard work
Show up. Do the reps. Earn it.
Giving back
Lift the people coming up behind you.
Kelly M. Whitfield
If any of this resonates — let's talk. I read every message that comes through, and I love hearing from people building something of their own.
— Kelly