Kelly Hamilton, Ph.D., SPHR

Kelly is passionate about improving the human experience at work. Combining his experience as a business executive with training in behavioral science and data analytics, he acts as a trusted thought partner by bringing a practical, evidence-based perspective to client needs. He brings to his work specialized training in diversity, equity, and inclusion and occupational health.

Kelly focuses on conducting assessments for selection and development, executive coaching, and organizational development projects. He also uses his experience as an entrepreneur and in retail to bring real-world experience to his practice.

Prior to joining CMA, Kelly held internal and consultative roles across a wide array of functional areas, including HR, organizational development, operations, sales, and service within both small, entrepreneurial companies and Fortune 100 businesses. Previously, he co-founded multiple media companies including ALIVE Magazine and EQ, publications focused on St. Louis’ thriving cultural and innovation communities and was an early hire and operational leader for a retail chain and phone center in the nutritional supplement industry.

Kelly earned his M.S. and Ph.D. in industrial and organizational psychology from Portland State University with a dual minor in diversity and inclusion and occupational health. His dissertation focused on identifying specific behaviors managers can perform to foster more inclusive work environments, driving better work outcomes for employees and teams. He also holds an M.A. in German from Washington University in St. Louis and bachelor’s degrees in psychology and German with honors from Austin College.

Kelly is a member of the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology and the Society for Human Resource Management. He is a prolific presenter and author on workplace topics, particularly diversity and inclusion, workplace health/well-being, and leadership. He has been recognized by the St. Louis Business Journal as a “Diverse Business Leader” and by St. Louis Small Business Monthly as a “Top Young Entrepreneur.”

Outside of work, Kelly enjoys hitting local hiking trails, exploring new eateries, or planning his next National Park trip with his spouse, Sarah.