Innovating Communication, Leadership, Community

Keith B. Woods is the founder and CEO of KB Woods, a leading communications agency based in Tempe, Arizona. With a career spanning over three decades, Keith has made a significant impact in public relations, media, and water resource management. A former Salt River Project (SRP) Board Director and accomplished radio marketing leader, Keith combines strategic vision with a passion for community advocacy. His work has shaped Arizona’s public utilities, transformed client success in marketing, and fostered innovative solutions for businesses and communities alike.

Keith Woods 2023 Photo at Arizona Falls

Keith B. Woods: A Comprehensive Biography

Keith B. Woods has built a distinguished career spanning more than three decades in public relations, media, and water resource management. As the founder and CEO of KB Woods, a communications agency headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, and as Chairman of the SRP Landowners Alliance, Woods has become a leading voice in Arizona for strategic public policy, innovative marketing, and community advocacy. From his early days in radio to his transformative work with the Salt River Project (SRP), Woods’ career exemplifies a commitment to leadership, innovation, and service.

 

Early Life and Education

Keith was born to Joanne Atherton and Beresford Woods and raised in Valley Center, California, alongside his brother, Lorne. His family’s roots run deep: the Woods family emigrated from Windsor, Canada, to the U.S. in the 1950s, eventually settling in Escondido, California, while the Athertons are one of San Diego County’s oldest families.

A hard-working youth, Woods was active in 4-H, raising swine and dairy goats—a formative experience that instilled a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility.

Keith attended The Orme School, a boarding school in Arizona, where he excelled as a student leader. He served as editor of the school’s newspaper, The Crotalus, and yearbook, Hoofprints, while also holding key leadership roles, including Student Body President. At Arizona State University (ASU), he earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology, supported himself by working at Price Club (now Costco) in Mesa, Arizona, and became deeply involved in campus life. He joined Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity, interned for Senator John S. McCain, and created a custom sociology in media internship at KFNN-AM, where his career in radio began.

Later, Woods earned a Certificate in Digital Marketing from Cornell University, equipping him with cutting-edge strategies to leverage emerging platforms.

 

Professional Career

Radio and Marketing (1989–2010)

Woods’ radio career spanned two decades, beginning at KFNN-AM in Mesa, Arizona, in 1989. From there, he joined KGRX-FM in 1990 and later moved to California to work at KRTY-FM, KUFX-FM, and KHQT-FM in the competitive Bay Area market.

In 1993, Woods returned to Arizona and joined KDKB-FM, where he spent the majority of his career, working until 2010. At KDKB, a classic rock powerhouse, Woods made his mark as a sales and marketing leader, managing campaigns for high-profile clients such as McDonald’s, Valvoline, Suzuki USA, and the Arizona Diamondbacks. He also forged partnerships with motorsports brands like the Richard Petty Driving Experience and sports teams including the Phoenix Suns and Arizona Coyotes.

Woods developed innovative campaigns like “Watch, Listen & Win”, a collaboration with AZ Family’s 3TV, and co-op retail programs for brands such as Checker Auto Parts. His ability to analyze audience data using tools like Arbitron and Scarborough Research earned him national recognition in R&R Magazine and Radio Magazine.

Public Utility Leadership (1996–2024)

In 1996, Woods joined the Salt River Project (SRP) Council, representing water and power users, and in 2000, he was elected to the SRP Board of Directors, where he served for 24 years. His leadership was instrumental in maintaining SRP’s position as a national leader in electric reliability and affordability. Under Woods’ tenure, SRP consistently delivered some of the lowest electric rates in the U.S. while achieving top rankings for grid reliability.

Key accomplishments include:

  • CEO Succession Planning: Woods authored SRP’s succession planning process, ensuring stable leadership transitions.
  • Sustainability Goals: He supported SRP’s net-zero carbon emissions goal, balancing environmental priorities with affordability for ratepayers.
  • Water Resource Management: Woods spearheaded Canal Multiple Use Agreements, which transformed SRP-managed waterways into recreational hubs and commercial zones, revitalizing areas such as Old Town Scottsdale and Arcadia.
  • Irrigation Water Delivery Districts (IWDDs): Woods championed the formation of IWDDs across metro Phoenix, providing legal protection for private irrigation systems and creating funding mechanisms for infrastructure improvements.

During his tenure, Woods chaired several key committees, including the Power Committee, Finance and Budget Committee, Governance Committee, and Community Relations Committee. He also served on the boards of Papago Park Center, overseeing SRP’s real estate assets, and New West Energy Corporation, which marketed surplus SRP energy.

In 2024, Woods founded the SRP Landowners Alliance, a 501(c)(4) organization advocating for ratepayers and sound governance policies to preserve SRP’s legacy.

KB Woods (2010–Present)

In 2010, Keith Woods founded KB Woods, an integrated marketing and public relations agency with a mission to help businesses and organizations tell their stories effectively. Headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, the firm specializes in video production, digital marketing, and strategic communications. With a commitment to delivering measurable results, KB Woods has become a trusted partner for businesses seeking to elevate their brand and engage their audiences.

Over the years, KB Woods has partnered with a diverse range of industries, including utilities, manufacturing, healthcare, sports, hospitality, and non-profits. The firm’s work spans local businesses in the Phoenix metro area and national campaigns, showcasing its versatility and ability to scale.

Known for Innovation and Community Focus

KB Woods is renowned for crafting innovative campaigns that achieve both business and community impact. The agency combines technical expertise with a personal touch, fostering lasting relationships with clients and stakeholders.

Beyond client work, KB Woods is deeply committed to giving back to the community. The firm actively supports and collaborates with leading non-profits and organizations, including American Cancer Society, Check for a Lump, Tempe Community Council, UMOM, and many others.

Industry Leadership and Recognition

KB Woods is a proud supporter of the Public Relations Society of America’s (PRSA) Copper Anvil Awards, which celebrate excellence in public relations across Arizona. As a key sponsor, the firm underscores its dedication to advancing the PR industry and fostering professional growth.

Through its innovative approach and community-driven focus, KB Woods continues to set the standard for integrated marketing and public relations in the Phoenix area and beyond.

Keith Woods at a 93.3 KDKB driver appearance with Al Unser Jr. (Little Al).
KB Woods with Phoenix Business Journal
Keith Woods and Phoenix Suns Ape smiling and doing thumbs up
KB Woods' CEO Keith Woods at an event talking with people

Community Leadership

 

Woods has a long history of service to his community. At Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) Church in Scottsdale, he contributed to a capital campaign that funded new parish offices, a library, and a gymnasium. He is also a dedicated supporter of the Boy Scouts of America, serving in leadership roles including Scout Master and organizing the Scouts Computer Swap Meet (now Electronicfest). For his efforts, Woods received the prestigious Silver Beaver Award.

Personal Life

 

Woods resides in Phoenix’s Arcadia neighborhood with his wife, Molly Woods, a teacher at OLPH School. They have three sons:

  • Kenton Woods, PhD: A Senior Data Analyst for Chandler Unified School District, married to Bobbi Woods, PhD, a professor at ASU, with one daughter, Sawyer.
  • Maxwell Woods: A DDS candidate at Indiana University and a U.S. Navy Ensign.
  • Chadwick Woods: A GIS Programmer Analyst for Maricopa County.

Memberships and Certifications

Memberships:

  • American Public Power Association (1996–2024)
  • Colorado River Users Association (1996–Present)
  • National Water Resources Association (1996–2024)
  • Arizona Farm Bureau
  • Mesa Country Club (Membership Committee)

Certifications:

  • Wood Badge (BSA): Advanced leadership training for youth mentorship.
  • FAA UAS Part 107 License: Certification for commercial drone operations.