The 2025 Women Leaders in Consulting: Kelly Charlton

Kelly Charlton is a visionary leader and strategist, recognized for redefining what’s possible at the intersection of consulting, technology and innovation. As the architect of One Microsoft at RSM, Kelly transformed the firm’s pipeline generation engine in FY25, and enabled the alliance team in securing $1.08 million in Co-op funding and elevating RSM to Azure Expert MSP status. Her leadership has driven a 14% YoY revenue increase and a 23% margin dollar lift, while earning finalist recognition for Microsoft’s Global and Americas Partner of the Year Awards. Kelly’s impact extends beyond financials. She launched the One Microsoft Champion Network, scaled onboarding for 88+ hires, and led the creation of 124 marketplace solutions and 18 advanced specializations. Her AI co-innovation efforts positioned RSM as a leader in Azure AI, spotlighted at Microsoft Ignite.

As a director, Kelly bridges strategy and execution, building cross-functional programs, aligning teams to high-impact goals, and amplifying strategic messaging. She’s known for identifying business gaps, orchestrating integration across practices, and launching initiatives like the One Microsoft Skilling Program and a reimagined event strategy. Kelly’s leadership is catalytic, uniting people, platforms and purpose to drive transformation. She continues to shape the future of AI-powered consulting while championing women leaders.