Carmela Clendening

Carmela Clendening is an experienced political affairs professional with a robust background in government relations and public policy. Currently serving as Director at BlackRock since September 2024, Clendening previously held director-level positions at Binti, Inc. and Stripe, where focus areas included government affairs and public policy for state and local entities. Notably, while at Hewlett-Packard, Clendening managed political affairs and PAC initiatives, significantly boosting fundraising efforts. Earlier roles included strategic fundraising and finance management for former Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s campaigns and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, where millions were raised for various Democratic causes. Clendening's career began with outreach and advisory roles in Congress, enhancing connections with the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. Clendening earned a Bachelor of Arts in Government and Politics from the University of Maryland.