Sharmila Swenson
Symetra Life Insurance Company, a national provider of employee benefits, annuities and life insurance, has appointed Sharmila Swenson as assistant vice president, Public Affairs, a new role for the organization. Based at Symetra’s Bellevue headquarters, she will report to Trinity Parker, senior vice president, Marketing, Communications and Public Affairs.
“Symetra is a leading life insurer, Puget Sound employer, and committed community partner. As we embrace a larger role in the issues affecting our industry and region, we are excited to welcome Sharmila and her unique combination of skills and experience in public service, legislative affairs and community relations. Her extensive background in public affairs, her strong relationships with civic organizations and leaders across the state of Washington, and her passion for public policy make her the ideal candidate to help advance Symetra’s civic commitment and profile,” said Trinity Parker.
Ms. Swenson was most recently manager for Local Government Affairs and Public Policy at Puget Sound Energy, Washington state’s largest utility, serving 1.5 million customers. She was previously relationship development officer for Treehouse, a nonprofit organization addressing the essential education and enrichment needs of youth in foster care. She served as deputy chief of staff for then Congressman Jay Inslee, becoming director of operations in 2012 for Governor-elect Inslee’s transition team.
Ms. Swenson is a board member of the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce’s Eastside Business Coalition and an executive board member of the Civic Alliance for a Sound Economy on the Seattle Chamber of Commerce. She also serves on the governance board for Treehouse and the Pierce County Economic Development board. Ms. Swenson received a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Washington.
Since 2006, Symetra has contributed nearly $12 million to local communities through programs like Symetra Heroes in the Classroom®, employee contributions and volunteerism, and corporate giving, including support for American Red Cross, United Way and Youth Eastside Services. Recently, the company’s $100,000 donation to the Sophia Way helped the Eastside emergency shelter for women achieve a milestone of year-round operation for the first time in 2018.