Getting to Know You: Partner, Robin Ritch

By Rachel Camacho

When Robin Ritch became an SVP Partner in April 2011, she didn’t miss a beat. Upon joining, Robin’s intention was to use her business skills in helping nonprofits become more productive. She has been able to do this and so much more! Robin dove right into taking on challenges and responsibilities, becoming a member of IWG, PWG and a Co-Lead Partner for Audeo Charter School. When people meet Robin, they discover a warmth and confidence that is a pleasure to be around. We thought you’d enjoy getting to know Robin too.

Why did you join SVP?
About 13 years ago, I was first exposed to SVP Portland and Seattle through my Microsoft connection and loved the idea. Through different volunteer opportunities, I had realized that anyone can stand in line and handout bread. I had business skills that could be utilized by a nonprofit, but I didn't know how to find those nonprofits. I was very intrigued with the ability as an SVP Partner to use my business skills in a way that I could actually help a nonprofit group with a cause.

How are you involved with SVP?
I am currently a Co-Lead Partner with Audeo Charter School, participating in the Outcome Planning Resource Team and Investment Working Group and serving as the Portfolio Working Group Liaison to Investee, REBOOT.

What are you getting out of your SVP experience?
I love the ability to help Audeo focus their business around key outcomes and new marketing tactics that match their success goals and target markets. I also have enjoyed all the SVP Partners I have worked with so far.

Personal tidbits:
I have spent a lot of time traveling, with over 80 countries visited, and lived abroad in China.  While in San Diego, you can find me most days running the trails at Torrey Pines. For the last 5 years, I have commuted up to work in the Bay Area, and am so happy to no longer be doing that commute.

What is your favorite place in the world and why?
I have two favorites: I love Bali as it has great beaches, mountains and is covered with 1000's of Hindu temples and I am drawn to Israel (although I am not Jewish) because I love all the history there. I just went back in September for my second time.

What is the most important thing you have learned and from whom? 
I have learned from a couple of mentors in my life that you don't need anyone's approval in life, as they are not watching you, they are only worried about themselves.

Nobody in SVP knows that…
I have lived in the Northwest (born in Seattle, worked in Seattle, then lived twice in Portland) for the majority of my life. But you could not pay me to leave San Diego. I love the weather, the culture and the people. I love to learn new things and meet new people from different backgrounds. I find life fascinating and fun.