Kelly Elliott

Ms. Kelly Elliott is a leader who is passionate about driving strategic change and creating high-performing organizations. In 2023, she was selected as NASA’s chief human capital officer, responsible for leading the human capital practices that support NASA’s workforce of more than 18,000 employees.

“Create an environment full of learning opportunities, for it is through learning that we find creativity and excitement to forge new frontiers.”

Kelly Elliott

NASA Chief Human Capital Officer

With more than 30 years of experience in consulting, finance, and human resources, Elliott is an expert in business management and transformation, including strategy and planning, organizational design, and infusing a work environment with increased trust and sense of belonging. Having spent over 15 years in multiple industries, including the financial sector and higher education, she gained critical experience and perspective in leading through significant industry transformations. Elliott is a visionary leader who understands complex organizations and challenges and has designed and implemented innovative programs for maximum results and positive, lasting change.

In 2019, in her first Senior Executive Service role, Elliott was named director of the Business Operations Division in NASA’s Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer. She was responsible for the formulation and execution of the $160 million human capital budget and for strategically managing all phases of the human capital information technology portfolio and lifecycle.

Elliott joined NASA at Johnson Space Center in 2010; she served in a variety of human resources roles, culminating in her selection as deputy director of human resources in 2017. She tackled key workforce challenges, implemented a number of process improvements, and provided facilitation and consultation for workforce challenges facing Johnson Space Center and significant NASA programs such as the Shuttle Program and International Space Station.

With a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Accounting from Texas A&M University and a Master of Business Administration from University of Houston – Clear Lake, Elliott approaches NASA’s workforce challenges with a holistic and business perspective and a passion for engaging the amazing talents in the NASA workforce.

She enjoys traveling with her daughter, hiking, and spending time with her horse.