2026 Honoree

Kelli Parsons

Kelli Parsons brings deep experience driving growth, innovation and operational excellence to her new role as CEO of Avoq, a strategic communication and advocacy firm.

A seasoned strategist and former global CEO of Hill & Knowlton, Parsons is a sought-after corporate affairs and marketing leader, earning a reputation for creating value in defining moments. She advises clients on reputation capital and resiliency, corporate and financial communication, regulatory and public affairs, litigation and business transformation. Parsons has expertise in stakeholder engagement to align and mobilize strategy across organizations and among constituents.

Previously, as chief communication and marketing officer for Fortune 50 companies, Parsons focused on value creation and protection during business and cultural transformations. She led the multi-stakeholder communication strategy for United Technologies during its acquisition and integration of Rockwell Collins, spins of Carrier and Otis as independent public companies, and $74 billion merger with Raytheon.