Proven Builder. Relentless Operator. Strategic Equity Partner.
From $1B capital projects to 9-figure business turnarounds—I’ve been trusted to lead when the margin for error was zero. Now, I embed with founders and funds to drive execution, scale operations, and protect capital at speed.
✔ $1B+ Capital Project Development
✔ + 20 Years of Executive Leadership
✔ $100M+ Turnaround
✔ P&L Ownership
I’m Kelly Jawhari, Professional Engineer—a strategic operator and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience leading capital-intensive businesses through complexity, scale, and transition.
My background spans $1B+ energy infrastructure programs, manufacturing, industrial turnarounds, and new venture launches across North America. I’ve served in executive roles within global EPC firms, led $250MM business recoveries, and founded multiple ventures reaching 7-figure run rates. I work well where capital is on the line and execution defines the outcome.
In 2024, I paused my career to overcome Stage 4 cancer. That chapter redefined my pace, sharpened my judgment, and deepened my focus. I returned to work more deliberate—more selective about who I partner with, what I build, and how I scale it.
Today, I work with private equity groups, family offices, business owners and founders as an embedded operator, strategic advisor, or equity-aligned partner. I bring hands-on leadership to growth-stage companies, post-acquisition integrations, and distressed assets that demand clarity and discipline.
Credentials & Key Highlights
“Resilience is not just personal—it’s operational.”
My approach is shaped by two decades in capital projects and turnarounds. I’ve led teams through execution bottlenecks, commercial resets, labor volatility, and investor pressure. Whether we’re scaling, stabilizing, or repositioning a business, I bring the frameworks, mindset, and standards required to perform under constraint.
I believe in precision over noise. Execution over theory. And building systems and teams that can outlast market cycles.
If you’re looking for an operator who protects capital, drives accountability, and delivers under pressure—I’m ready to talk.
Leadership Beyond Business
I believe leadership extends beyond balance sheets and boardrooms. Over the years, I’ve contributed to community organizations, youth mentorship programs, and purpose-driven initiatives that align with the same values I bring to business: discipline, contribution, and long-term impact.

Built for Endurance. Driven by Discipline.
Whether I’m leading a business transformation or climbing the last 10 kilometers of a 120km Granfondo, I approach everything with full commitment. Outside of my work, I test my limits to stay mentally sharp and physically resilient.
✔ 120km Granfondo ride
✔ 21km Tough Mudder
✔ Daily strength training and strategic reading
I don’t train for aesthetics—I train for clarity, conviction, and durability. The same qualities I bring to every boardroom, turnaround, or founder partnership.