CREDENTIALS | A TIMELINE OF EXPERIENCE

Ely Key is a strategist and consultant with experience across sustainability, business development, and creative leadership. He earned a B.S. with honors from the University of Michigan’s Organizational Studies Program in 2007, followed by a research fellowship with the Ross School of Business, studying global manufacturing and finance in China and Hong Kong.

That same year, Ely joined The Limoneira Company, a leading citrus producer in California, where he led sustainability efforts — including what was then the largest solar installation in the state and a LEED-certified visitor center for environmental education.

In 2009, he launched an independent consulting practice focused on creative strategy, storytelling, and business innovation. His early work included filming a documentary and writing the script for an off-Broadway multimedia performance at HERE Arts Center in New York. From 2010 to 2012, Ely served as Director of Strategy for U-Go Stations Inc., a Philadelphia-based electric vehicle charging startup.

In 2012, he co-founded Up Mountain, a beverage company rooted in local sourcing and traditional recipes. He oversaw operations, supply chain, and retail expansion — growing the brand from farmer’s markets to Whole Foods. After an investment by AB-InBev’s Disruptive Growth arm, Ely led product development and national distribution within the functional beverage space. From 2019 to 2021, he rejoined U-Go Stations, working closely with the co-founder through its successful acquisition by a public company.

2022
Expanded consulting services to include individuals. Returned to academics with a focus on psychology and mental health.
Completed coursework at the University of Maine in:

Human Development | Anatomy & Physiology | Chemistry for the Life Sciences | Human Nutrition

Previously completed a 400-level Psychology in Spiritual Development course at the University of Michigan.

Relevant Coursework – University of Michigan

Organizational Studies courses relevant to work with both individuals and organizations included:

Biology of Aids (MRNA disease) | Managing Change | Schools, Community, Power | Corporations in Society | Legal Environment | History of Latinos in the US | Economics | Statistics Data Analysis | Environment Ecological Issues | Social Organization & Coordination | Formal Organizations & Environment | Political Economics | Psychology | and Social Innovators as Leaders.

2024–Present
Launched a full consulting and coaching practice serving both Organizations & Individuals
Services include lifestyle coaching, business strategy, sober curiosity, informed leadership, and creative development