Dan Kelly’s career began as a developer, but his passion for project delivery and leadership roles soon took center stage. After spending years working in the UK, Dan returned to Australia, where he found a home in one of the country’s largest agricultural companies. His connection to the farming industry, stemming from his rural upbringing, made this role particularly meaningful. However, after 15 years, Dan found himself at a crossroads: continue in a stable corporate environment or dive into the exciting world of tech startups. He chose the latter, joining LIFELENZ, where he now leads client delivery in ANZ and the UK.
As the head of client delivery, Dan oversees project implementation and day-to-day support for LIFELENZ clients across Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. His team ensures that client expectations are met, whether through the successful delivery of new projects or ongoing support. Dan takes great pride in bringing teams together to achieve successful outcomes, finding particular satisfaction in the collaborative process. The McDonald’s UK project, along with the Nando’s Australia project, are significant and rewarding endeavors, and stand out as recent highlights, showcasing the strength of the team’s efforts and client relationships.
Working in a startup with a global footprint presents unique challenges, particularly in terms of geography and time zones. For Dan, the key to overcoming these obstacles lies in maintaining strong connections with team members, even when they are spread across different continents. Regular communication, whether through virtual face-to-face meetings or other tools, is crucial for keeping teams aligned and ensuring that new starters are supported. Dan’s experience in adapting to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic has been invaluable in navigating these challenges, allowing him to lead his team effectively across multiple regions.
Outside of work, Dan is passionate about triathlons, finding them a vital outlet for maintaining his health and well-being. Growing up in a small country town in South Australia, he developed a deep appreciation for rural life, which has influenced his personable and straightforward approach to leadership. Balancing a demanding career with family life, Dan’s weekends are often filled with his children’s sports activities, adding another layer of fulfillment to his life.
Dan’s advice for those entering the startup world is to embrace the challenges that come with it. Startups offer the opportunity to grow quickly, learn new skills, and wear multiple hats. For those in leadership roles, it’s essential to build trust and respect within your team, empowering them to take on responsibilities that will push their boundaries and foster growth. Success in a startup requires everyone to be on the same page, working together toward common goals, with a willingness to adapt and learn along the way.
