Ellen Silhasek
Phoenix,AZ
Summary
Strategic relationship and fundraising leader with more than a decade of experience in high-net-worth insurance, business development, and corporate partnerships. Proven success cultivating executive relationships, leading sponsorship strategy, and driving multimillion-dollar fundraising initiatives. Experienced in stakeholder engagement, integrated marketing, and operational leadership across both corporate and nonprofit environments.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Fundraising and Marketing Chair
PANDA
Phoenix, AZ
06.2025 - Current
- Led fundraising and corporate sponsorship strategy supporting more than $4 million raised annually for pediatric medical research through PANDA’s signature campaigns and events
- Managed executive and corporate partner relationships across sponsorships ranging from $15,000 to $100,000+, overseeing outreach, stewardship, presentations, and ongoing engagement
- Directed integrated marketing and community engagement initiatives, including social media, donor communications, public relations, and year-round fundraising campaigns
- Oversaw and collaborated with cross-functional volunteer teams across sponsorships, PR, social media, community campaigns, and event operations for a 1,200+ attendee annual fundraising event
Sponsorship and Auction Coordinator
PANDA
Phoenix, AZ
05.2023 - 05.2025
- Served on PANDA’s Live Auction Committee during the 2023–2024 fundraising year, supporting strategy, donor engagement, and procurement efforts that contributed to a record-breaking $100,000 live auction item
- Collaborated with auction leadership, sponsors, and donors to execute PANDA’s 2024 fundraising event, achieving significant success
- Engaged in corporate partnership outreach, relationship management, and sponsorship development as part of PANDA’s Sponsorship Team for the 2024–2025 fundraising year
- Developed sponsorship initiatives that nearly doubled year-over-year sponsorship revenue through expanded partner engagement and strategic outreach
Territory Sales Director
Nationwide Private Client
Denver, Colorado
03.2016 - 03.2018
Territory Sales Director
Nationwide Private Client
San Francisco, California
09.2013 - 03.2016
- Built and expanded Nationwide Private Client territories across the San Francisco Bay Area and Colorado/New Mexico markets, developing broker networks and driving new business growth from the ground up
- Cultivated and managed high-performing agency relationships through strategic partnership development, accountability, and ongoing business planning
- Grew and maintained a substantial high-net-worth book of business while independently underwriting complex personal insurance accounts
- Balanced business development, underwriting authority, and relationship management responsibilities to drive profitable growth within competitive luxury insurance markets
Underwriting Product Manager
Fireman's Fund
San Diego, California
06.2007 - 09.2013
- Developed expertise in underwriting large, complex personal lines portfolios, integrating risk analysis with client and agency relationship management to optimize outcomes
- Collaborated with agency partners to structure tailored coverage solutions for high-net-worth clients, addressing unique property exposures effectively
- Underwrote complex high-net-worth personal insurance accounts with annual premiums exceeding $25,000 across Arizona, New Mexico, California, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington
Education
Bachelor of Arts - American Studies
University of Notre Dame
Notre Dame, INSkills
- Fundraising strategy
- Corporate sponsorship
- Event management
- Donor communications
- Brand development
- Client relationship management
Affiliations
- President, School Board St. Thomas the Apostle (2023-Present)
- Auction Coordinator, GiGi's Playhouse - Scottsdale, AZ (2022-Present)
- PTO Volunteer, St. Thomas the Apostle - Phoenix, AZ (2020-Present)
Timeline
Fundraising and Marketing Chair
PANDA
06.2025 - Current
Sponsorship and Auction Coordinator
PANDA
05.2023 - 05.2025
Territory Sales Director
Nationwide Private Client
03.2016 - 03.2018
Territory Sales Director
Nationwide Private Client
09.2013 - 03.2016
Underwriting Product Manager
Fireman's Fund
06.2007 - 09.2013
Bachelor of Arts - American Studies
University of Notre Dame