AccelPeople is a team of seasoned recruiting professionals, operators, and talent strategists who specialize in building high-performing teams for VC-backed biotech, healthtech, and deep tech companies. With decades of combined experience across clinical, engineering, and commercial hiring, we serve as the dedicated human capital partner for the most innovative portfolio companies in the market.
Our Team
Kelly Gutilla is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of experience in business development, client management, and leadership within high-growth corporations and staffing agencies. As President of AccelPeople, he specializes in providing fractional executive consultant solutions, creative embedded talent and contract recruiting support, and cost-effective project/temporary employees and payroll services.
Throughout his career, Kelly has held notable leadership positions including Golden Hive, Verily/Alphabet, and Aerotek. His expertise spans talent acquisition, strategic partnerships, and building high-performing teams. With a proven track record of delivering customized staffing solutions, managing complex hiring projects, and driving operational success, Kelly has consistently excelled in multiple industries. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from California Polytechnic State University.
Michelle Marshall joined AccelPeople as a Recruiting Director managing AccelPeople's Fractional Recruiting practice. Michelle is a seasoned recruitment leader with 15+ years of experience across industries, including engineering, life science/ biotech, cybersecurity, and technology, managing diverse teams and driving strategic hiring initiatives.
Her accomplishments include building entire teams from scratch, streamlining recruiting processes, and leading inclusive recruiting efforts at companies like Verily and Google. Michelle holds an SPHR certification and advanced degrees, blending technical acumen with a strong foundation in leadership and mentorship. In her spare time she enjoys the outdoors and hanging out with her dog Abby, a rat terrier.
Stela Foran
Sr. Project Manager
LinkedIn
Stela Foran is Senior Project Manager and Head of Research. Prior to joining the company, Stela served as an Executive Recruiting Researcher for a SaaS Startup which sells recruiting software. She also has experience working in the Human Resources and Customer Service fields.
Stela received her Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from Southwestern University in Bulgaria, where she was born and raised. She also obtained a Human Resources Certificate from Rutgers University. On the weekends, Stela can be found hiking with her husband, or curled up with a history book and her cat.
Michael is a seasoned Talent Advisor with 10+ years of experience building teams for high-growth tech companies, primarily within the life sciences and FinTech industries. He specializes in creating thoughtful, data-driven hiring strategies for complex roles.
Outside of work, Michael enjoys cheering on Boston sports teams, experimenting in the kitchen, writing, hiking, and spending quality time with his wife, their one-year-old son, and their giant lovable English black lab.
Edward Renna
Operations
LinkedIn
Eddie Renna covers IT, administrative operations, and marketing. He joined after supporting the world of executive recruiting at Thrive TRM, working his way up from Data Processor Intern to IQ Operations Manager for the software company's data & research services team. Eddie received his bachelor's degree from Rutgers University in History. In his spare time, he does a bit of sports analysis, loyally following the Jets, Mets, and Knicks.