About Us

 The Clay Experience is a boutique operations consulting company that partners with small business owners to streamline their administrative functions. Founded in January 2020, we are singularly focused on helping small businesses reach their peak potential. Our services are designed to empower your business by outfitting you with operational tools for efficient administrative work. 

Our service includes a consultation to help identify gaps and opportunities, a comprehensive report that includes a project plan with timelines and milestones, and an operational toolkit. We work with a suite of quality products that will help you get there quickly and smoothly.

Makela L. Clay, Principal  
Makela Clay is an operations consultant who partners with small business owners to streamline their administrative functions. During her two decades of experience, Makela has acquired a diverse background in fundraising, event & project management, executive support, office management social media strategy and client relationship management.

Previous employers include Twitter, Goldman Sachs, Monitor Group (currently Monitor Deloitte), The Commonwealth Club of CA and 5-time Grammy® winning choral ensemble San Francisco Girls' Chorus. Career milestones to date include serving on the Blue Apron IPO administrative team, being part of fundraising team to successfully raise $5.75 USM to purchase headquarters for The Commonwealth Club of CA and starting the alumni relations department for the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.

Makela is an avid knitter, arts supporter and a board member on the SIU Alumni Association.

Makela holds a C.M.S. from Harvard University and a B.A. in History from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale.