Empowering Organizations Through Empathy and Innovation

Sean W. Kelley

Professional Summary

Sean W. Kelley is a visionary leader known for turning bold ideas into measurable results through strategic foresight, disciplined execution, and financial precision. With a unique ability to uncover untapped potential across sectors, Sean blends inspirational storytelling with pragmatic leadership, ensuring that vision, operations, and outcomes are perfectly aligned. His financial acumen has driven multiple organizational turnarounds, while his deep cross-sector expertise, spanning government, military, healthcare, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence, positions him as a powerful force for innovation and sustainable growth. His leadership journey began in the United States Navy, where he served as both an enlisted Sailor and a commissioned Officer, leading humanitarian missions and taking on key roles in Washington, D.C. Whether guiding national initiatives or scaling enterprise strategies, Sean’s leadership is defined by transformation, impact, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Work Experience

As the former Chief Information Security Officer at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Sean played a pivotal role in fortifying and evolving the agency’s internal security framework. His collaborative leadership extended beyond organizational boundaries, engaging customers and the broader security community to drive innovation and establish best practices across the organization.

Prior to his tenure at the EPA, Sean rose through the ranks of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Information Technology—an enterprise of over 18,000 employees and a $4.2 billion budget. Beginning as Chief of Staff and later serving as Deputy Chief Information Officer for the Veterans Benefits Administration, he operated within the Senior Executive Service (SES). During this period, he spearheaded the VA’s transition from outdated legacy systems, securing billions of dollars in critical funding to modernize infrastructure and enhance service delivery to veterans.

As President of Connsci, LLC, Sean is driving strategic initiatives that position IT as a force multiplier for innovation and transformation. His track record of success includes leading the Veterans Business Portfolio at General Dynamics—achieving an unprecedented 144% growth—and exceeding annual revenue targets by 50% during his time at Leidos.

Beyond his corporate endeavors, Sean’s influence extends to the airwaves, where he hosted a widely respected talk show on WTOP/Federal News Radio, creating a platform for dialogue between government executives and emerging technology firms.

Education

Sean holds two master’s degrees, from Webster University and the Naval Postgraduate School and a bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University. He has earned professional certificates from UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School and Cornell University. Sean is also a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), a Project Management Professional (PMP), and a Fellow of the American College of Health Data Management, reinforcing his deep expertise in cybersecurity, risk management, and large-scale program execution.

Board Experience

Board of Director

Connsci

Gaithersburg, MD - August 2022 to Present
Leads the strategic growth of the company, drives operational excellence, and develops frameworks to ensure outstanding customer delivery and experience.

Commonwealth Care Alliance
Boston, MA – May 2024 to May 2025
Commonwealth Care Alliance (CCA) is a mission-driven healthcare organization that provides innovative, person-centered care to individuals with complex health and social needs. Sean serves on the Governance, Audit, and Compensation Committees.

Executive Advisory Board

Forcepoint
Herndon VA - August 2018 to December 2020
Forcepoint is a cybersecurity company specializing in user and data protection through AI-driven security solutions.

Non-Profit Boards

Board Member
Government Information Technology Executive Council (GITEC), Washington, DC - October 2013 to August 2017
GITEC is a council of senior government executives dedicated to enhancing the delivery of high-quality and cost-effective IT services in the Federal Government.

President
Government Information Technology Executive Council (GITEC), Washington, DC- April 2016 to August 2017
Led initiatives to foster collaboration between government IT leaders and private-sector partners to advance federal IT modernization.

Member, Advisory Council (AEESAC)
AFCEA Energy, Washington, DC - April 2017 to November 2018
AFCEA Energy focuses on leveraging technology and innovation to support government agencies in meeting critical energy and environmental goals.

Gala Chair, Annual Children’s Gala
AFCEA Bethesda- June 2017 to June 2019
Chaired AFCEA Bethesda’s Annual Children’s Gala, raising funds to support Fisher House Children’s Scholarships for military families.

Co-Chairman
Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) Annual Gala, Washington, DC
February 2018 to January 2020
Led fundraising efforts for Paralyzed Veterans of America, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives and healthcare of veterans with spinal cord injuries.

Social Responsibily

Giving Back | Purpose Beyond the Boardroom

Sean is a strong believer in the power of giving back and building a legacy rooted in service, empathy, and action. He is a staunch advocate for helping veterans successfully transition from military to civilian life, drawing on his own experience in the United States Navy to mentor and support fellow service members as they navigate new professional and personal paths.

His passion for service extends to some of the most vulnerable populations in society. Sean actively supports initiatives focused on combating homelessness, understanding firsthand the complex challenges that can lead individuals to crisis and the dignity and opportunity that come from compassionate, long-term support.

A dedicated champion for youth, Sean also invests time and energy into helping children unlock their full potential. He is deeply involved in causes that provide educational opportunities, mentorship, and encouragement to underserved youth so they can thrive in a world of possibilities.

As an active mentor, Sean shares his experience and insight with emerging leaders across sectors. Whether guiding veterans, first-generation professionals, or aspiring entrepreneurs, he leads with authenticity and a commitment to lifting others up, one conversation, one opportunity, and one life at a time.