Meet Kelly Gilson Family is where it’s at for this local Westfield mom
Name Kelly Gilson
Company name McKinsey & Company
Family (names/ages) Husband – Adam, Sons – Joshua (5) and Benjamin (2.5)
Job Title Client Capabilities Manager
Pets Dill (a mixed-breed rescue dog)
Contact info https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-gilson-86081bb/
How long have you lived here and what brought you to town?
We have lived in Westfield since the Spring of 2022. We were drawn to the beautiful homes and the sense of pride in the community. The vibrant downtown and quick access to the city were also major factors! We moved locally. Prior to living in Westfield, we lived in Fanwood for six years.
What are your favorite family activities?
We love to take family walks around our neighborhood and spend time at the local playgrounds (Franklin School, Mindowaskin, and La Grande in Fanwood are some favorites). We are also big fans of the Westfield Memorial Library. In the summer, we love to spend time at the Westfield Memorial Pool as well as take day trips to the beach.
What’s your favorite restaurant and/or place to shop?
My husband and I love Publick House in Mountainside for date night, dinners with friends, and with the family. We also enjoy Bare Burger and Vicki’s Diner as a family. I love being able to walk downtown for shopping and dining and do my best to shop local.
What was the best advice on motherhood that you ever received?
A lot of the tough phases when they are young, are just that – a phase! I’ve also always found it important and helpful to have a group of “mom friends” who you can talk openly with – about motherhood and otherwise. Within a community of women who have had diverse life experiences, it’s rare that you have to go through anything alone without help or guidance. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need.
Tell us about your job or passion.
As my kids have gotten (a little bit!) older, I’m dipping my toes back into some hobbies. I’ve gotten back into reading a lot and got serious about my fitness routine. This year, I also took a Mahjong class and pickleball lessons! Finally, I became a board member of the Westfield Newcomers Club. I love newcomers as a way to meet new people, make some great friends, and generally enjoy the town. I’m happy that I get to give back as a board member and help others enjoy the club as much as I have.
What inspired you to follow this career?
I kind of fell into my field post-college and never left! I love it – I get to collaborate with super interesting, smart, and thoughtful colleagues across the globe. It also plays to my strengths of being organized and a solutions-oriented problem solver. My current office is local and hybrid, which is great for my young family. Careers can be long and winding, and I am enjoying the journey and happy where I am right now.