Stephen Kelly

A dynamic and results-driven senior executive with over 20 years of leadership experience within the automotive and technology sectors. Proven expertise in scaling businesses through strategic innovation, operational excellence, and a "people-first" approach to company culture. Currently leveraging this extensive background to provide strategic advisory services through SCK Business Solutions and contributing to board-level governance in Non-Executive Director (NED) capacities.

Founder & Director at SCK Business Solutions (2025-03 – Present)

Established the business to provide expert strategic advisory services to growing organisations.

• Offering strategic consultancy, C-suite mentoring, and executive training programs to empower companies to scale effectively and achieve dynamic transformation.

Chief Executive Officer at Used Cars NI (2021-01 – 2025-01)

Led the strategic vision and expansion of Northern Ireland's premier used car platform.

• Achieved consistent 20% year-on-year scaling income and EBITDA growth.
• Transitioned the business by recruiting and establishing a dedicated in-house programming, product, and "People & Culture" team in Belfast.
• Established the inaugural NI Motor Industry Awards in 2023, creating a new benchmark for excellence within the regional automotive sector.

Head of Operations and Business Development at Used Cars NI (2020-02 – 2021-02)

• Oversaw key operational processes, enhancing efficiency and revenue growth.
• Spearheaded a decade of market expansion and stakeholder engagement.
• Managed key partnerships and client relationships to strengthen the company's position.

Business Development Manager at Used Cars NI (2010-02 – 2020-02)

• Spearheaded strategic growth initiatives, leading to market expansion.
• Developed and executed sales strategies that drove significant revenue growth.
• Built and maintained strong relationships with key stakeholders in the automotive industry.

Sales Executive at NOEL EAKIN & SONS LIMITED (2006-02 – 2010-02)

• Delivered exceptional sales results, exceeding targets consistently.
• Strengthened customer relationships and enhanced brand reputation.
• Provided technical and onboarding support training for number plate printers and software.

Rental Manager at Enterprise Rent-A-Car (2003-01 – 2006-01)

• Managed rental operations, optimising customer service and fleet management.
• Led a team to achieve operational excellence and high customer satisfaction.
• Negotiated with body shop and service centres to manage rental fleets.

Non-Executive Director at Allied Group (Present)

• Strategic Transformation & Rebranding: Actively guided the board through the successful strategic rebrand from Allied Fleet Services to Allied Group. This transition reflects the company's evolution into a comprehensive, multi-service provider of customs, compliance, and logistics solutions across the UK, Ireland and Europe.
• Expansion & Investment Oversight: Provided independent counsel and strategic oversight during a significant £500,000 investment phase.
• Division Architecture: Supported the structuring of the Group into three specialist divisions: Allied Customs, Allied Freight, and Allied CBAM ensuring the business is positioned to lead in emerging regulatory environments, such as the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
• Governance & Growth: Contributing to long-term scaling strategies through diversified service offerings and enhanced digital presence.

Committee Member & Trustee at Dungannon Swifts FC (Present)

Actively involved in the sporting community as a Trustee of the Dungannon Swifts Charitable Trust.

• Commercial Strategy: Directly responsible for driving commercial activity within the club, managing sponsorships, and enhancing revenue streams to ensure sustainable growth and community impact through football.

Non-Executive Director at Ripley Chat (2022-02 – 2023-05)

• Provided strategic guidance to support business development and operational improvements.
• Contributed to corporate governance and long-term growth strategies.
• Advised on market trends and customer engagement tactics.

B.A (Hons) in Politics – University of Northumbria at Newcastle-Upon Tyne (1998 – 2001)

A-Levels in Politics, Geography, Geology – Coleraine Academical Institution (1996 – 1998)

GCSE in English, Mathematics, Geography, Double Award Science, French, Geology – Coleraine Academical Institution (1994 – 1996)