Patti Gillenwater, CEO

Winning the lottery will not cause Patti Gillenwater to change her life. She readily admits that she has had the great fortune to align her life's work with what she loves to do which is making a positive impact on the lives of others. As Elinvar's leader since 1995, Patti has built the Elinvar organization around her belief that great results stem from leadership and great leadership happens when leaders are working in an environment that supports them. "It is with great leaders at the helm that organizations are able to create good things for all of their stakeholders."

An agile leader, Patti has the ability to quickly grasp the essence of critical business issues and see a road to solutions that create the desired results. She applies this talent to solving the leadership challenges of both individual leaders and their organizations. With over 20 years of experience in executive search, Patti's varied and broad experience has been focused on understanding all aspects of what is needed for an individual joining a new organization to be successful.

In addition to applying her expertise to identify experienced and emerging leaders, Patti is passionate about bringing the best leadership development resources to Elinvar clients. With an eye for what is best for our client companies, Patti works with them to determine the right solution - from executive coaching to team development to succession planning. Getting results through people to accomplish the organization's strategy is what keeps Patti engaged- now and after she wins the lottery!

Patti began her career in recruiting following her tenure as a CPA. She gained financial and operational knowledge with two companies - Deloitte and International Paper Company. An honors graduate of the University of South Carolina with an undergraduate degree in Accounting, Patti has received numerous certifications in assessments related to leadership and team performance. She is also a writer and speaker on leadership issues.

Currently serving on the local chapter board (Past President) and the Global board of the Association for Corporate Growth, Patti has developed an interest and knowledge of the private equity world. Over the years Patti has also served in various leadership roles and has invested her time in community service related to public school advocacy and support for all children having access to a world-class education. She is currently a member of the board of Wake Education Partnership where she serves on the program committee.

Email: patti@elinvar.com | Telephone: (919) 256-1900