February 07, 2024
Melissa Schellinkhout
Portland, Oregon-based regional growth leader for the Pacific Northwest, Woodruff Sawyer & Co.
Portland, Oregon-based client relationship director, national middle markets, Woodruff Sawyer & Co.
We’re in the middle of a very dynamic time – new technology, how to use and react to artificial intelligence, the impact of the climate, the way we work now (in person, virtual) – the commonality is change and the outlook for the industry is continued change. Those who are adaptable will thrive and those who are more resistant probably won’t.
We have built a very successful team and client base over the past two decades in the Pacific Northwest. My goal is to continue the momentum by focusing on the team. I plan to bring operational efficiencies, support and resources to ensure we are leveraging their expertise in the markets we serve. I also plan to be intentional around our brand awareness and making connections with strategic partners where our value propositions align.
Talent in the Pacific Northwest has historically been a challenge – how do we retain employees and challenge them to stay in the business and to be intrigued by the business? At the same time, new employees are looking for development and training. How do we as an organization adapt to those needs quickly and help our employees develop the skillsets of today?
I was recruited by Chubb Ltd. from Fairfield University. My first job was as an underwriter trainee in the executive protection department of Chubb, where I learned all about D&O.
Take time to listen and observe. This business is so varied and relies on experiential learning, so open yourself to listening and learning through those experiences. Pay attention to those who have been in the business for years and pick the best from each. Don’t be afraid to offer your ideas and fresh perspectives. Some of the best ideas come from our newer team members. Be open to new opportunities, you may think you’re completely down a path, a niche or line of coverage. You never know what kind of opportunity may present itself and require you to pivot in a completely different direction.
I would love to have a more formal role around coaching. Someday I’d like to create a nonprofit, to help young athletes play softball and develop in the game longer before they join club sports. So many kids, especially girls, self-select out of sports early, and I’d love to give them another option – team sports have so much to teach us – working together as a team, discipline, building confidence through personal development, leadership.
I had a double major in marketing and information systems at the Dolan School of Business at Fairfield University.
We have an exceptional team in the Pacific Northwest, and I am eager to continue strengthening the group while leveraging Woodruff Sawyer’s broader organizational resources and expertise. I am thrilled to refocus on the Pacific Northwest and our clients here, looking forward to actively engaging with the sales team to support their growth and expansion in the Northwest. Lastly, I am looking forward to establishing and expanding Woodruff Sawyer’s presence and brand in the Seattle area and throughout the region.
Fresh Dungeness crab, preferably that I helped catch on the Oregon coast.
“Wild,” by Cheryl Strayed — her journey, and the risks she took on the Pacific Coast Trail was so inspiring — and so far from anything I would try to do. “Now Discover Your Strengths,” by Marcus Buckingham and Donald O. Clifton. I’ve read this book a few times and have used it throughout my career. I still pull on the learnings of this book as a manager, a parent and personally. I love their advice about focusing on what we’re best at and how that plays out in one’s life and career. I still use what I’ve learned from that book.
For the past six years, I’ve coached Little League softball. I played softball for Fairfield University for four years and teaching the game is so rewarding. I also love gardening – it gives me a lot of satisfaction and after working a long week inside, I really look forward to doing anything outside.
That’s easy – “Friends” I grew up with it, it makes me laugh and feel good and it’s short. I go back to it time and again. “Ted Lasso” is another favorite. It’s fun to watch, and has a wonderful vibe about it - positive, and all about building a team the right way.
On most Saturdays, you can find me at a field, gym or pool watching my girls participate in sports. I have two active teenagers and they play softball, volleyball and swim. If I have a free Saturday, I’ll be outside - hiking, walking and exploring all that Portland offers.
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