Robert Podlogar

Robert Podlogar has extensive work experience in various leadership roles. Robert started their career as a Regional Market Assistant at Bank One/Chase, where they were responsible for training and branch expansion. Robert then worked at Huntington National Bank as a Regional Sales and Service Manager and later as a Consumer Lending Program Manager, overseeing revenue growth and process improvements.

In 2007, Podlogar joined KeyBank, first as a National DeNovo Channel Manager and later as a National De Novo Sales Delivery Manager. Robert successfully implemented strategies for new branch development, resulting in higher balance sheet growth.

Podlogar then served as the Chief Executive Officer at the Siemer Institute, where they developed a comprehensive model to prevent family homelessness and improve students' educational development. After leaving the Siemer Institute in 2019, they worked as a Nonprofit Executive Consultant at RDP Consulting, assisting nonprofit leaders in achieving their organizational missions.

In 2020, Podlogar joined Valley of the Sun United Way as the Chief Community Development and Engagement Officer. Robert led the implementation of a 5-year strategic plan focused on education, health, housing/homelessness, and workforce development. During this time, they also started their own company, Candelen, where they currently serve as the Chief Executive Officer. Candelen aims to provide tools to caregivers to support early learning development.

Robert Podlogar holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) with a focus on Marketing from Ohio Northern University.