Mary Ellen Stanek
Managing Director
Baird
Friday, January 31, 2025
8:30AM–9:30AM
US Bank Building (Baird Conference Center)
777 East Wisconsin Avenue Milwaukee, WI
Mary Ellen Stanek has spent more than 45 years helping others build strong financial futures—and in the process, she’s shaped a legacy of leadership that extends far beyond the balance sheet. As Managing Director at Baird, Founder and Chief Investment Officer Emeritus of Baird Advisors, and President of Baird Funds, she’s responsible for over $150 billion in assets under management. Yet she’s equally devoted to uplifting Milwaukee, channeling her influence into countless local causes that strengthen the community she’s always called home.
Come hear how Mary Ellen balances the demands of overseeing major investment portfolios with a deep commitment to civic life. She’ll share insights gleaned from decades in finance—like the power of disciplined strategy, the need for adaptability, and the rewards of a people-first mindset—while revealing how a focus on real-world impact can uplift more than just portfolios. Don’t miss this chance to discover how Mary Ellen’s vision fuels both economic growth and community well-being, ensuring Milwaukee thrives for generations to come.
More About the Speaker
A proud graduate of Marquette University (B.A.) and the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee (M.B.A.), Mary Ellen Stanek has garnered more than 15 awards for her civic and professional contributions in Milwaukee. She’s been honored on Barron’s list of the 100 Most Influential Women in U.S. Finance and was named Morningstar’s Outstanding Portfolio Manager in 2022. Before joining Baird, she served as President and CEO of Firstar Investment Research & Management. Her extensive board service includes Baird Financial Group, WEC Energy Group, and a range of nonprofits such as All-In Milwaukee, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, Children’s Wisconsin Foundation, Greater Milwaukee Committee, Greater Milwaukee Foundation and Milwaukee World Festival. A past chair of the Greater Milwaukee Committee and past co-chair of the Milwaukee 7, Mary Ellen also co-chaired Marquette’s recent campaign alongside her husband, Scott, raising over $800 million. Through every role, she demonstrates how disciplined leadership and genuine compassion can transform institutions, neighborhoods, and individual lives.
Professional Development Bootcamp 2025 Line-Up
Thanks to Our Sponsors We are grateful for our sponsor’s investment in Milwaukee’s talent community |
Presenting Sponsors  Supporting Sponsors   |
