Woodruff Sawyer taps regional growth leader for Pacific Northwest

Company stalwart was named a partner in 2020

By Ryan Smith

Jan 12, 2024 Share

Independent insurance brokerage Woodruff Sawyer has announced the appointment of Melissa Schellinkhout (pictured above) as regional growth leader for the Pacific Northwest (PNW).

Schellinkhout previously served as senior vice president and client relationship director for Woodruff Sawyer’s national middle market commercial practice. She was named a partner in 2020.

In her new role as regional growth leader, Schellinkhout will lead new business strategies and drive market growth through key partnerships and sponsorships, the company said.

“Melissa’s promotion to regional growth leader underscores our dedication to continual growth and client-focused excellence,” said Roger Topp, chief growth officer at Woodruff Sawyer. “Her strategic approach to organization and operations will play a pivotal role in refining our processes and enhancing departmental efficiencies. Melissa’s effective communication skills and knack for building connections will be valuable assets to Woodruff Sawyer’s PNW team. I’m looking forward to collaborating with her.”

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“An abundance of strategic planning has gotten us to where we are today, and our teams are the strongest they have ever been,” Schellinkhout said. “We are well-positioned in the market, and I am committed to building on our expertise, marketing, data and analytics, ensuring we continue to thrive in this region and as an organization.”

In October, Woodruff Sawyer announced the appointment of Walker Newell as vice president of regulation and securities litigation attorney for its management liability practice.

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