Next Up Columbus 2025: Kashif E. Smiley
Name: Kashif E. Smiley
Profession: Owner of Klutch Strategies, LLC
Neighborhood: Downtown Columbus
Education: MBA, MPA, BS
Community Involvement: Polemarch (President); Columbus (OH) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc; City Year Columbus Board
Motto: Be a student of life — learning, building, and growing always in all ways
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Kashif E. Smiley is an entrepreneur and community-builder whose journey has been anything but linear… and that’s exactly what makes it powerful. A proud graduate of Florida A&M University, Kashif earned his BS in Business Administration, MBA, and MPA before forging a career that blends corporate excellence with bold entrepreneurship and purposeful service.
He has held leadership roles and shaped strategy at powerhouse companies like JPMorgan Chase, Capital One, Procter & Gamble, and Accenture. Along the way, he also built his own consulting firm and launched Noir Lounge — now one of downtown Columbus’s premier nightlife destinations — an embodiment of culture, connection, and creativity.
But for Kashif, success is never just personal. Whether he’s leading in the boardroom, managing complex construction projects, or giving back through his fraternity, his mission stays the same: create opportunity, build community, and help people win. Grounded, driven, and deeply engaged, Kashif is a leader who turns vision into impact and brings others along with him.
What gets you up in the morning? And what gets you through the workweek?
Honestly? The alarm clock, a strong cup of coffee, and the fact that purpose doesn’t hit snooze. I get up every day knowing there’s still more to build for my businesses, my community, and for the people who believe in me. The work I do creates opportunities, and that’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly (even if some mornings my bed tries to negotiate with me).
What gets me through the workweek is remembering why I started. I’ve taken risks, pivoted careers, and built businesses from scratch, so every long day is just part of the journey. And if I can make a little progress, help a few people, and have some laughs along the way, that’s a good week.
What advice or mentors have helped guide you along the way?
I’ve been blessed with incredible mentors: family, professors, fraternity brothers, bosses, and peers who poured into me at every stage. One piece of advice that’s always stuck: “Be a student of the game.” Stay curious, stay humble, and never stop learning, no matter how far you climb.
My mentors also taught me the power of relationships that business, leadership, and life are all about how you show up for people. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the people who saw something in me before I saw it in myself.
What do you do or where do you go to unwind?
For me, it’s traveling overseas. There’s something about being on a plane, heading to a new destination, that instantly recharges me. I love exploring new places, but if there’s a beach and some water involved, even better. Growing up in Miami, I’ve always found a sense of calm near the water. When I’m home, I like to keep it simple: cooking a good meal, turning on some music, and just taking a moment to decompress.
What are a few of your favorite local spots in Columbus?
Noir Lounge, duh — hands down the best lounge in Columbus! Being a downtowner, I usually stay close to downtown, Short North, and Grandview — one of the best things about Columbus is the food scene, it’s seriously underrated. Some of my go-to spots: SoCal, Pint House, Martini, Fox in the Snow, Forno, Arepazo, Habaneros, and Meister’s Bar Pizza is .
When you were a kid, what did you say you wanted to be when you grew up?
Honestly? I’m an adult and still don’t fully know what I want to be when I grow up. I’m just figuring it out one chapter at a time! But growing up, I thought I’d work in the music industry, as an A&R rep or running my own label. I’ve always loved problem solving, business, innovation, and brand building. In many ways, that’s still the core of what I do today.
What books or podcasts are you reading/listening to right now?
Pardon My Take; Bill Simmons; Spittin’ Chiclets; club shay shay; Business Problems Solved; Problem Solvers; Business Wars
Acquired.fm; HBR On Strategy
What does it mean to you to be chosen for the Next Up Columbus award?
It’s truly an honor. Columbus has become a place where I’ve been able to build, grow, and give back, both personally and professionally. To be recognized alongside so many talented people who are shaping the city’s future is humbling. This award isn’t just about me; it’s a reflection of the mentors, friends, family, and community who have supported me along the way. I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue making an impact here, and this recognition motivates me to keep pushing forward.
If someone were to ask you what the “pulse” of Columbus is, what would you tell them?
It’s surreal, honestly. I’ve been grinding, building businesses, taking risks, and trying to create spaces and opportunities for others, so to be recognized for that means a lot. Columbus has given me the chance to grow both personally and professionally, and I’m proud to be part of the energy that’s making this city special. Plus, it’s just cool to be listed alongside so many people doing dope things in the city. This kind of recognition just motivates me to keep going.
The Next Up Columbus Awards, presented annually by the Columbus Young Professionals Club, recognize emerging leaders who are making a meaningful impact across Central Ohio. These honorees are innovators, connectors, and community champions helping to shape a brighter future for Columbus. Meet the entire Class of 2025 »