Kelly J.

Head of Finance | Deep Tech, AI & Gaming

San Francisco Bay Area

About

Versatile finance and operations leader with over 15 years of experience supporting growth and organizational efficiency in technology-driven companies. Successfully built and scaled non-engineering functions at various startups. Collaborated with CEOs, boards, and investors to drive strategic planning, capital strategy, and M&A readiness. Advised startups in AI, mobility, and cybersecurity, helping shape operational infrastructure, fundraising, and compliance. Dedicated to enabling businesses to scale seamlessly through strong governance and operational excellence.

Experience

  • Head of Finance & Operations at RLWRLD
    Nov 2025 - Present · 9 mos

    Leading finance, accounting, tax, and operational infrastructure for a multi-entity physical AI and robotics company.

  • Startup Advisor - Finance, Ops & Strategy at Various Early to Mid-stage Tech Companies
    Jan 2015 - Present · 11 yrs 7 mos

    Provided advisory and fractional leadership support across finance, compliance, operations for venture-backed startups in AI, mobility, cybersecurity, gaming, and consumer technology. Selected clients: SquareTrade, Anki, Innovayte, Moomooz, Lvl6, Buzzmusiq Korea, B Garage

  • Phantom AI (8 yrs 11 mos)
    • CFO (Acquired by Harbinger Motors)
      Jul 2019 - Nov 2025 · 6 yrs 5 mos

      AI Software | Autonomous Driving & ADAS Built and scaled all non-engineering functions from scratch — Finance, Accounting, HR, Legal, and Business Operations — through Series C and acquisition by Harbinger Motors. Partnered with the CEO, board, and investors on strategic planning, fundraising, and M&A diligence. Led financial planning, capital strategy, and investor communications. Owned accounting, audits, cap table, compensation, benefits, equity, and compliance across U.S. and international teams. Managed legal and commercial matters including financing documents, IP contracts, and vendor negotiations.

    • Board Member
      May 2022 - Jan 2025 · 2 yrs 9 mos

      Served as a board representative overseeing corporate governance, budgeting, and strategic decision-making across global operations.

    • Advisor
      Jan 2017 - Jun 2019 · 2 yrs 6 mos

  • Director of Finance & Operations at SEWORKS
    Jan 2016 - Jun 2019 · 3 yrs 6 mos

    Led finance and business operations for a high-growth cybersecurity technology company, overseeing accounting, FP&A, budgeting, forecasting, multi-entity reporting, cash management, SOC 2 readiness and operational scalability initiatives.

  • Accounting & Financial Reporting at Twitter
    2014 - 2015 · 1 yr

    Led global accounting and financial reporting for payroll, stock compensation, and employee benefits. Partnered cross-functionally with HR, Tax, and Legal to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.