Kelly Hopkins is the Director of Defence at Hays, bringing over 15 years of experience in workforce strategy and talent solutions across Australia’s Defence sector. Leading Hays’ national Defence team, Kelly drives strategic partnerships, workforce planning and veteran employment initiatives, with a strong focus on inclusive hiring and sustainable career pathways for ex-service personnel.
She played a pivotal role in developing Hays’ Veteran Program, now adopted by the UK business, creating a global support network for veterans. Kelly also co-founded “Meet the Primes” with Tim and Katie Walmsley from Benchon, an initiative featured at AMDA Defence Conferences that connects SMEs with Prime contractors to foster innovation and supply chain integration.
Beyond her Defence leadership, Kelly is the Co-Lead of ‘We Lead,’ Hays ANZ’s female empowerment group, advocating for gender equity and leadership development. She actively collaborates with veteran organisations and Defence clients to raise awareness and build inclusive workforce practices.
Kelly holds multiple industry roles, including Southeast Brisbane Director for Defence Industry Networking, Queensland Ambassador for Women in Defence Association (WIDA), Ambassador for Defence in Business and Board Secretary for the Defence Kidz Charity. She is an advocate and champion for veteran and veteran partner employment across Australia. In her role as National Defence Director at Hays, Kelly has supported countless veterans and their families in navigating career transitions post-service, particularly within the technical, engineering and defence industry sectors.
Kelly’s commitment extends well beyond her professional remit. She actively volunteers her time across multiple defence-aligned organisations, including serving as an Ambassador for Women in Defence and Defence in Business, a Director of Defence Industry Networking, and a Board Member of Defence Kidz. These roles allow her to influence policy, share veteran success stories and ensure visibility of the unique value veterans and their families bring to the workforce.
A natural connector and mentor, Kelly personally guides veterans and partners through transition, helping them identify new career pathways, linking them with industry mentors and opening doors to meaningful employment opportunities.