Serena Kelsch

Humanitarian Director of Strategic Partnerships , International Nongovernment Organization

Greater Los Angeles Area, United States

Results-oriented International Development and Resource Specialist with a proven track record of leading diverse teams and securing transformational resources. Experienced in strategizing, implementing, and evaluating programs focused on sustainable development. Known for building strong partnerships and driving organizational growth through innovative solutions and collaboration.

Contact Serena Kelsch
Area of Expertise:
  • Capacity Building, Training, Advocacy
  • Disaster, Aid, Emergencies, Relief
  • Fundraising, Business Development, Grants Writer
Professional Experience:

With over 25 years of experience in international development, humanitarian assistance, and partnership building, Serena Kelsch has a proven track record of securing transformational resources, leading cross-functional teams, and fostering sustainable solutions that directly align with addressing global poverty and social injustice.
In her current role as Humanitarian Director of Strategic Partnerships at ShelterBox USA, Serena has led the development of partnerships and funding strategies that resulted in a revenue increase from $250,000 to $5.75 million annually, generating over $20 million in revenue. By cultivating relationships with foundations, governments, and private sector donors, she has successfully expanded programmatic impact across multiple countries, ensuring that communities in crisis receive the resources they need. Her ability to navigate complex donor landscapes and align programmatic goals with funders’ priorities are a key asset in driving resource mobilization efforts.
Her expertise in designing and implementing comprehensive fundraising strategies, coupled with her passion for building partnerships that drive social impact, would enable her to contribute effectively to humanitarian and development missions. She is particularly skilled at developing multi-year, multi-million-dollar proposals and managing cross-departmental collaboration to achieve ambitious funding goals—skills that are essential for Business Development roles.

Education:

Monterey Institute of International Studies, A Graduate School of Middlebury College,
Master of Public Administration, International Development Management, May 2012

University of California, Santa Barbara,
Bachelors of Arts, Cultural Anthropology, August 2002

Kanton Schule Zurcher Oberland, Wetzikon, Zurich, Switzerland,
American Field Service Exchange Student, May 1998



Available for:

  • Consulting assignments
  • Job opportunities
  • Being headhunted – make me an offer

Years of Experience:

More than 20 years

Highest Qualification:

Masters

Languages:

English, Arabic, German

Nationality:

United States