Meet the Team PDF (Jan 22)

ME ET OUR TEAM

WEST REGION

Austin
Dallas
Denver
Los Angeles
Santa Cruz

MEET OUR TEAM

Chad Durden

Vice President, West

Hello, Aloha, and Buenos Dias! My name is Chad Durden and I have the privilege of working with all the West Region offices as Vice
President of the region. I am a born, raised, and proud Texan that loves living in the state capital of Austin! Even though the Texas

Longhorns are my team, I attended college at Texas State University, which is about halfway between Austin and San Antonio.



I joined Eliassen in November of 2016 when the region was comprised solely of the Dallas office. Prior to joining Eliassen, my journey
took me through two other firms before joining my ultimate, long term home here. The IT Consulting and Staffing business has
been part of my life since June of 1996 when I started as a Technical Recruiter. My career in the industry has spanned recruiting,

sales, branch leadership, area leadership, and regional leadership. I love seeing individuals and teams grow and achieve more than
they thought they could.



My passion and commitment to most things I attribute to my family. My wife Kelley and I have been married for 23 years and we
are blessed to have identical twin boys, Tyler and Jake, who are in high school. Our other family member is a Wheaton Terrier

named Birdie. In my spare time, I love to play golf with my sons, run, go to the gym, and hang out by the pool. Our family also loves
to travel and experience a lot of different places and people.


Some of the common things you may hear me say are:

“Always continue to stay positive and maintain hope. But remember- hope is not strategy.”
“I do not see ASAP on a calendar.”
“Just let common sense prevail.”



We will dominate in the West Region!

MEET OUR TEAM

Lisa Sullivan

Senior Director of Client Services

Hi, I’m Lisa Sullivan, Director of Client Relations for Eliassen Santa Cruz. My primary focus is new business development & leading an
account team to support Apple. For the past 23 years, I have been working with the outstanding team we have built in Santa Cruz.
Starting as a contract’s administrator, I worked my way into Recruiting, Recruiting Manager, Account Executive and most recently

served as the COO, prior to joining the Eliassen family.



After graduating from UC Santa Cruz with a Political Science degree, I completed University of San Diego’s paralegal program &
went into the legal field. I quickly learned that hanging out with lawyers all day was not my jam & decided to try my hand at IT

Staffing. Recruiting and then Sales/Account Management has allowed me the opportunity to help connect people with
opportunities that they otherwise may not have had. The greatest feelings in the world are watching a coworker win a hard-earned

match, hearing a consultant saying that we helped them find their dream job and having clients referring us to colleagues &
friends as a trusted partner.



My husband and I met in high school and will be celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary in September. We have identical twin
17-year-old daughters, 2 dogs and a whole bunch of koi. We are avid wakeboarders, spending most weekends, and as many
weekdays as possible, at the lake on our houseboat enjoying all the things lake life has to offer. I am a daily meditator, yoga
enthusiast, HIIT athlete & hiker. I am passionate about traveling and creating memorable experiences with my family.

MEET OUR TEAM

Sandy Merein

Director of Client Services

TBD

MEET OUR TEAM

Rebecca Vela

Regional Operations Manager - West

Hey everyone! I’m Rebecca Vela and I have the pleasure of supporting the West Region in an operational capacity under
the direction of Chad. This is an exciting role, as I tackle a variety of tasks. From regional reporting to projects,
presentations, and any other initiatives. No two days are ever the same.



I started with Eliassen in February 2020; however, I have been in the industry for over 9 years. Fun fact - Chad and I had
the pleasure of working together at a previous company. So, it’s great to be able to continue our partnership.



Being a highly organized person (some might even say OCD), I love working “behind the scenes”. It’s great way to join
forces and positively impact the business. The result of which is an exceptional experience for customers - both internal

and external. That is what drives me to strive for perfection daily.



When I’m not working you can usually find me out and about enjoying the “small town” pleasures of New Braunfels
including live music, great food, water recreation, camping, and plenty of festivals throughout the year. I am blessed with

an amazing family including my husband Johnny, two kiddos Caleb & Everly and our fur baby Chloe.

MEET OUR TEAM

AUSTIN

MEET OUR TEAM

Charles Davidson

Technical Recruiter

My name is Charles Davidson and I am a Technical recruiter and handle all recruiting efforts for all clients in the Austin office.



I have been with EG since February 2021, prior to my start I have been working in the IT staffing world for the past 2.5 years, but
started my professional career in the college and professional sports industry working for Texas A&M, University of Memphis and

The San Antonio Spurs.



I graduated from Texas A&M’13…Whoop! A former member of the Corps of Cadets and currently help current cadets as they
transition to their careers post college life.



I am obsessed with growing and can’t stand to lose, so any chance I get I am learning new technology and trying to grow our
Austin market. Not a bad thing to be money motivated as well.



In my spare time you can either find me on the golf course or on the coast catching reds and trout! Also supporting local
restaurants here in Austin with my wonderful wife Hailey and dog Bexar.



I believe in doing your part to help build your teams culture and you will be rewarded equally.
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take-Wayne Gretzky”—Michael Scott”

MEET OUR TEAM

Scot Donovan

Account Executive

My name is Scot Donovan. I’m an Account Executive for Eliassen Group in Austin, TX and my focus for the last three years has
been business and relationship development.



The Austin territory was a new and important territory for Eliassen Group to develop and I was grateful to be a part of the
effort. For the last ten years I’ve been a part of several startup businesses. Prior to Eliassen Group, I was involved in several
start up territories for Sustainable Furniture and Staffing firms, both in Austin and Savannah, GA. These experiences helped

me understand what developing a territory from scratch would look and feel like over the long haul.



Prior to my business career, I spent a few years playing minor league baseball as a pitcher. I followed in the footsteps of my
father and older brother. My older brother was a pitcher in the Boston organization, which I admired…but he was a lefty.

Growing up with a left-handed brother helped me understand how to deal with folks who were “different”. They wore their
hats crooked. Their belts are off-center. And they throw weird. Dealing with these oddities’ day in day out my entire life helped

me learn skills which ultimately helped me adapt to today’s ever-changing business environment.



I look forward to making a positive and valuable impact for Eliassen Group for many years to come



“Be so busy loving your life that you have no time for hate, regret, or fear”



MEET OUR TEAM

DALLAS

MEET OUR TEAM

Ben Glover

Branch Director

Ben Glover – Branch Director for the Irving office. I oversee the sales and recruiting team and responsible for growing
the branch operations. I started with Eliassen in January 2020 and come with 16+years in the Staffing business.



I spent 9 years with The Judge Group and was with Seneca Resources for close to 3 years prior to joining Eliassen. During
my time with Seneca Resources, I helped build the office from scratch. We went from 0 contractors on billing to over 30

billing in the 2.5 years I was the Branch Director.



My family and of course money motivates me each and every day. I strongly value the customer experience and make
sure to try and impact someone’s life in a positive way each day I come to the office.



I’m married to my wonderful wife, Larissa and we have 2 great kids, Christian 12 & Kara 10. They both keep us very busy.
When I’m not working you will probably find me on the golf course with my son or at a gymnastics meet with my
daughter. We’re busy every single weekend it seems but wouldn’t have it any other way!


Family inspires me every day.

MEET OUR TEAM

Ashley Walker

Account Executive

My name is Ashley Walker. I am an Account Executive at Eliassen Group. I handle Business Development with new
accounts as well as manage one of the major strategic accounts, Capital One.



I have been with the company since December 2019. I have been in the staffing industry for four years. I started out as a
Technical Recruiter and promoted within 11 months of employment to Account Manager. I have been recognized for
bringing in 12 new clients in less than one year for a Staffing Firm in the Accounting and Finance Division.


I have 10+ years of successful B2B sales experience, meeting and exceeding sales goals and a proven over-achiever
growing within an organization into a leadership position in record time.


In my spare time, I teach Dance Fitness Workout classes and Personal Train. I love mentoring women to reach their
fullest potential and go after their dreams.


“The real value of setting Goals is not the recognition or reward, it’s the person we become by finding the discipline,
courage, and commitment to achieve them.”

MEET OUR TEAM

Christy Brown

Technical Recruiter

My name is Christy Brown and I am a Technical Recruiter in our Dallas office supporting our local IT market and key enterprise accounts.



I have 7 years experience in technical service delivery in IT and Engineering space both in commercial and Government sectors and have been
with Eliassen since June 2021. The best part of my job is making in impact in someone’s future and building relationships.



Being in the industry, you realize I good referral holds its weight in gold and is the ultimate compliment. The biggest thing I pride myself on is
the referrals I have gained over the years from previous consultants I have worked with. I hope to always be an industry advisor and career
counselor to anyone that I work with.


I am the epitome of a middle sister and Libra because I always tend to be the relationship mediator or career counselor. I have a nursing

background and always want to help others through a nerve-racking process and enjoy to getting to put someone at ease when they would
normally feel overwhelmed. I pride myself in being a person that clients and consultants feel they can trust and put them in a position to
succeed in their career. I am definitely a people person and


We are a family that is very active and always on the go. We have three dogs and are big animal and nature lovers. I am passionate about
fitness and nutrition; Always trying a new healthier spin on my favorite recipes. My 9 year old daughter, Scarlet and she is keeping us busy

between violin lessons, dance class, basketball and martial arts. My husband is big into motorsports and races motorcycles and shifter karts, we
travel both on regional and National levels. We’re quite the competitive family, but it’s safe to say life is never boring.


“People will not remember what you do or what you said but how you make them feel”



My mother always stood by treating others the way I wanted to be treated. I never understood what she meant until I had a family crisis and it
hit me like a ton of bricks. I had people reaching out to help that said they wanted to help because of one way or another I was kind or helped

him or her growing up. I never knew how true her words rang until that day. We are all human and facing one challenge or another in life.
Sometimes taking a step back, giving someone grace and being a listening ear is all someone needs. Something so small to one person can
mean the world to another. Maybe it was just review of a resume, maybe comparing offers, advice about career paths, etc. It always comes

down to the same thing- helping someone be a better version of themselves. Empathy always wins.

MEET OUR TEAM

Christine Woodcock

Associate Recruiter

TBD

MEET OUR TEAM

Jamie Dexter

Account Executive

My name is Jamie Dexter and I am an Account Executive in the Dallas office. I graduated from
Southern Illinois University with a Bachelor’s degree in Communications specializing in Public
Relations. I have an IT recruiting background of 4 years and have worked in multiple markets

including St. Louis, Chicago, Miami, and Dallas.



I just recently made the shift to sales and am loving it. I enjoy building relationships and
delivering results to customers satisfaction, that would be the most motivating aspects of all in

the job for me.



In my spare time I enjoy traveling with my boyfriend and friends, trying new restaurants and I
especially love a good latte or glass of wine.

MEET OUR TEAM

Michael Perozzi

Technical Recruiter

My name is Michael A Perozzi and I’m an IT Technical Recruiter for Dallas TX. I have been recruiting for 15 + years in the
Dallas TX in the IT, Healthcare, Wireless, Telecom, ERP, Professional Services and IT staffing.



I have always worked hard every day. I have filled some large projects in the past in a team environment. There is not 1
major accomplishment I have done without a good team support and teamwork. I do not take credit from my success

because of my skills it’s all about the team you are working with.



I’m money driven and a team player. I like to work on the hard-to-find opportunities and find the best candidate at the
best price. I like to dress up and show up and get the job done. Work hard, put your time in and try to find the best
candidate.


I really enjoy any outside sports and be close to water. Love going to the Lake or Beach. I enjoy Golf, Sand Beach
Volleyballs, Softball, and spending as much time with my beautiful Wife my kids and My 4 brothers and family.


My father always said, you need to dress up and show up every day and do the best you can even if you do not play.


“It’s easy complaining from the cheap seats, come on down and take a swing and at least try.”

MEET OUR TEAM

Wess Miller

Account Executive

As account executive, I am responsible for developing and maintaining client relationships. I have been in the
industry for over 6 years, and with Eliassen Group since September 2018. I have served in multiple capacities
within the industry, including technical recruiter, talent manager, strategic relationship director, and account

executive; as well as multiple verticals, including technology, finance & accounting. I had the pleasure of
speaking at University of North Texas and Grambling State University, helping students as they prepare to join
the workforce. I am passionate about helping our clients solve problems, while remaining focused on providing

them maximum value.



My most important titles are “husband” and “father”, and I cherish time with my family. I also enjoy travel,
reading and writing, solving puzzles, playing and watching sports.



Life is about growth and impact: challenge is the catalyst of growth; the impact we have on others defines our
legacy. I am drawn to those who have overcome adversity, the relentless pursuers and the dreamers.

MEET OUR TEAM

DENVER

MEET OUR TEAM

Brett Beermann

Branch Director

Brett Beermann, I am the Branch Director for the Denver office. I joined Eliassen Group in May and the
opportunity to finally meet my team in person in June. Before that I spent 18 years with TEKsystems
selling Professional Services and Staffing based out of Denver; and most recently running the Denver
branch of minority owned staffing company. I would say my most significant professional
accomplishment has been training and promoting 15 of my direct reports into other production and
leadership roles. Over my career I have become a stout believer in practicing Servant Leadership; as
the most successful teams I have been a part of put the success their teams and their peers ahead of
their own.
On a personal note I have been married to my better half Christie for 17 years, and we have two
amazing daughters, Avery 13, and Anna 11. I spend most of my free time driving to soccer practices or
games, skiing, hiking, or on the rare occasion golf. As to a favorite quote, “Spend each day trying to be
a little wiser than you were when you woke up.” Charlie Munger

MEET OUR TEAM

Austin Stricker

Associate Recruiter

Hi! I’m Austin Stricker, a Technical Recruiter based in Denver Colorado where I was born and raised. I joined Eliassen Group as
a Resource Specialist in September of 2021. Since graduating from the program, I’ve had the pleasure of uniting driven
professionals with premier employers.



Before Eliassen, I spent the last 15 years and entirety of my career in hospitality management. My decision to change careers
wasn’t an easy one, but I can confidently say today it was the right one. I get to offer support and guidance to people during a

time in their life where there is an unnecessary void of those very things. Pursuing new opportunities can be scary and
stressful. It can be fun and exciting too. Regardless of the emotion, I get to be there or people and make an impact.



I believe the world's greatest achievers are those who have stayed focused on their goals and been consistent in their efforts. I
am an ardent proponent of people first, embracing change, staying hungry, learning every day, taking risks, being efficient,
and that having fun is part of a job description. The opportunity to connect with people and shape relationships through
trust, passion, comfort, and mutual appreciation is something I am honored to have done for the entirety of my career. I am
forever adapting, continuously learning, and never satisfied. Above all else, I embrace positivity and navigate my life through
the lens of optimism.


Personally - I’m a lucky husband to the love of my life Amy and dog dad to what seems to be a growing number of furry
friends that we adore.


“If you want something you've never had
You must be willing to do something you've never done.”

MEET OUR TEAM

Carrie Caudill

Technical Recruiter

Hi! I am Carrie Caudill and I am a Technical Recruiter for The Eliassen Group in the Denver area. I like to consider myself a
“Match Maker”, finding the perfect someone for the perfect job! I graduated from Northern Arizona University with my

Bachelors in Elementary Education. I love to teach, help, and coach people. I have been in the recruiting industry for 8 years,
making matches for qualified candidates and well-respected clients. I started with Eliassen about a month ago and have
enjoyed getting to know the company and my co-workers. The culture within Eliassen is what convinced me to work here.
They provide exceptional training and all the tools you need to be successful, along with a healthy work/life balance.


As a recruiter, I thrive off the thrill of the chase! I love to compete with myself to always be successful and better than I was

yesterday. The challenges that come along with recruiting makes the reward that much more exciting! Everyday is different,
but that is what keeps it exciting!



In my free time, I enjoy hiking, Crossfit, camping, cleaning (yes, I love to clean my house), and raising my son. I have a 13-year-
old son in 8th grade who keeps me extremely busy playing Baseball and Football. I am also obsessed with dogs! I have two
dogs, a Golden Retriever, and a German Shepard.


“If you are the smartest person in the room, then you are in the wrong room” – Confusius

MEET OUR TEAM

Connor Bemiller

Technical Recruiter

TBD

MEET OUR TEAM

Courtney Kanamine

Account Executive

Hi! I’m Courtney Kanamine, a Principal AE, in Denver. I get to drive new business development and growth across Colorado.
Additionally, I strive to be an asset to my Denver-based peers, to help create strategies for their individual success!


Prior to joining Eliassen, I have 6 years of experience supporting various large government integrators, as an IT
subcontracting partner on DHS, DOD and various FedCiv Contracts.



I studied Political Science at Penn State University, with a minor in Psychology – which, combined with my experience living
overseas, has taught me to better connect with and understand everyone that I work with, internally and externally, from all
backgrounds and cultures. And on that note – I live to build long-term relationships based on trust and mutual respect. There

is no better compliment, to me, than a referral from a happy manager or coworker to another!



Outside of work, I am a cliché Colorado transplant. Summers consists of hiking and paddleboarding with my pup, Arwen, and
husband, Justin, and winters are all about chasing powder across the Rockies! We call our travels and activities “our
adventures” and try to make the most of every adventure.



“A journey is better measured in friends not feet and memories not miles” – such is a successful career is measured in
relationship and reputation.

MEET OUR TEAM

Jesus PenaCruz

Technical Recruiter

I am Jesus Pena-Cruz, and I am a Technical Recruiter here at the Denver office. I help qualified tech candidates find their ideal
job by helping with their resumes and connecting them to the right people.



I have been with Eliassen Group for nearly two months now. Prior to Eliassen, I spent 3 years working as a Technical recruiter
for smaller recruiting firms in the Denver area.



I am a first-generation college graduate with a Bachelors degree in Business from Colorado State University. I was a top
performer at one of my previous firms and intend to bring that hard-work and dedication to Eliassen Group.



I am passionate about technology and helping others and I always strive to bring 100% to everything that I do. I am a big
people person and really value connecting with candidates and learning about them and what they are searching for and

helping them achieve what they want.



In my spare time I enjoy playing and watching sports particularly soccer, basketball, and football. I also enjoy spending time
with my girlfriend and dog and doing things like hikes, runs, and watching movies/shows.



I personally believe that technology is a very powerful tool that can be used to better the lives of many people all across the
globe. I want to do my part in helping people in any way that I can.

MEET OUR TEAM

Kristen Lobo

Account Executive

Hi! My name is Kristen, I am a Principal Account Executive for our Denver office. I
am responsible for business development on new accounts and managing one of
our strategic accounts. I have been in the staffing industry for 6 years, I started out
as a Healthcare Recruiter and moved into a Sales role about 4.5 years ago. I enjoy
building honest and trusting relationships and I love helping my partners navigate

through challenges/projects.



When I’m not working, I am usually somewhere in the mountains with my fiancé
and our pups. I love skiing in the winter and summertime calls for lots of hiking and

kayaking. Food is my jam! I love finding new restaurants and sharing a bottle (or
two) of wine with friends.

MEET OUR TEAM

Michelle Valencia

Technical Recruiter

TBD

MEET OUR TEAM

Tatiana Timmins

Technical Recruiter

Hello! I’m Tatiana.I’m a Technical Recruiter for the Denver office. I’ve been with Eliassen Group since July 2019. I graduated
from the Resource Specialist Program in September 2019.This is my very first recruiting job and I’m loving it so far! I came

from a 17-year career in the service industry, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision to shift career paths.



I absolutely love working with people. I also love knowing that I can contribute to society in a massive way. I have a passion for
networking and connecting like-minded humans. It has always been one of my super powers in my personal life, and now I
get to bring that to my professional life.


I thrive when I’m camping, hiking, backpacking, exploring new places; doing any kind of traveling or being in nature really
lights me up. Music is a deep passion of mine. I have personally created a plethora of playlists on Spotify (hit me up if you
want some links). Rainbow is my favorite color. I love to meditate, play Catan, create mala necklaces, take photographs of
everything, and basically do anything that’s creative. I’m about 95% right-brained and 5% left-brained.


I believe that kindness should be spread like wildflowers, and I try to live by that philosophy every day. A smile can change
someone’s entire day around. Be compassionate as often as you can; you never know what someone else is going through.

ME ET OUR TEAM

LOS ANGELES

MEET OUR TEAM

Josh Tofteland

Branch Director

Hi, Josh Tofteland here. As the Director of Greater Los Angeles, I am a Culture Creator and a Servant Leader. I assume
ultimate accountability for the attainment of our Goals in Southern California. By ‘Goals’, I’m referring to Eliassen

Group’s Revenue & Margin Commitments across our Service Lines, the professional aspirations of current LA Staff and
the attraction, development + retention of future Teammates.



I opened the LA Market for Eliassen Group in mid-2017 and began building the Team in ‘18. After relocating to LA in ‘13, I
ran sales and recruiting for an LA-Based Tech Services & Staffing Company.



I grew-up in the biz at a Publicly Traded Competitor with tours-of-duty from selling in Boston to leading multiple Teams
in & around New York City. Outside of work I’m a doting husband, dog dad, cooking enthusiast, wannabe restaurant/bar
critic, avid music fan, occasional binge reader, sun-seeker, part-time gardener, hammock nap taker, streaming content

super-consumer, fickle hobbyist and a Kentucky Boy at heart.



One of my favorite quotes for our business, "Either run the day or the day runs you.” -Jim Rohn

MEET OUR TEAM

Cameron Lopez

Technical Recruiter

Hi, my name is Cam Lopez and I have been with Eliassen Group for two years as a Technical Recruiter. As a Technical
Recruiter - I’m responsible for finding candidates that clients are going to love, but more importantly, I find candidates
opportunities that will boost their careers and increase their overall happiness. While brokering valuable relationships,

my goal is to find you your dream job.



Like so many others in the industry, I stumbled into recruiting while attempting to find a career that made sense for
me. Prior to working with Eliassen Group, I worked as a Corporate Recruiter for a non-profit that provided behavioral

learning services. Once I found my footing, I ultimately decided it was time for a change. I needed to unleash my
competitive spirit and still maintain my core values. That’s when I found Eliassen Group. Boasting a great work culture,

excellent leadership, awesome team, and reputable market share – Eliassen Group was a no-brainer.



Outside of work - you’ll find me scaling a wall at my local climbing gym, attempting to wrap my brain around
philosophical works, pretentiously indulging in independent films, discovering new restaurants, binge-watching terrible

reality shows, occasionally crowd-surfing, and spinning vinyl from a collection that is constantly growing.



“Laugh, and the world laughs with you; weep, and you weep alone” – Ella Wheeler Wilcox

MEET OUR TEAM

Eric Cooley

Account Executive

My name is Eric Cooley and I’m a Principal Account Executive focusing in the Los Angeles and Orange County markets. I have 8+
years in the IT staffing industry. I started out in recruiting and naturally progressed to being a full-time sales representative. I love
solving problems and meeting new people and I’m grateful to be given this opportunity to help the Southern California market at

Eliassen.



I graduated from University of La Verne in 2011 with a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management. I am a proud USCM
veteran as well as a prior collegiate golfer. Also, I’ve been lucky enough to attend 4 performance trips with previous companies



Customer experience is something I cherish.Honestly and integrity breeds long lasting relationships, and in sales that’s the name of

the game. Treat others as you would like to be treated.Also, I love helping people and the financial reward that comes with it.



I’m a father, a husband, a golfer, and a follower of Christ. Work, church and family life keeps me busy, but if I ever have free time you
can catch me on the local driving range giving lessons to complete strangers I meet on the driving range. LOL, no but seriously, I
love helping people with their golf swings.


A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all
people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35


This quote inspires me to choose to treat people with respect and kindness.

MEET OUR TEAM

Heather Moody

Agile Operations & Partnership

Hey, My name is Heather, I am the Partner and Operations Manager for the Agile Practice and sit in our LA office. I
maintain / strengthen our current relationships with our partners and seek out new ones, create and implement
strategic initiatives with our partners, and responsible for driving qualified leads to our sales team to generate revenue.

From an operations standpoint I generate reports, track ROI, review client facing documents, and more.



I have been with Eliassen for 3 years, 1 year sitting in the Reading office before Lexi Dussi and I decided it would be a
good idea to road trip out to LA (New Orleans and Grand Canyon were my 2 favorite stops of the trip). I started off just
handling Operations for the Agile Practice. The past year and a half I have jumped into the Partner side of the Business

and enjoy making new relationships with companies outside of Eliassen to strengthen our Practice.



I grew up playing Soccer and Basketball, so sports are a huge part of my life and helped shape me into the person I am
today. I played soccer at Endicott College for 4 years, still hold the last championship at Endicott, Soccer 2013 CCC

Champs (humble brag). What I like to do outside of work: I am slightly obsessed with Peloton. Traveling. Love going to
the beach. Hiking. Co-ed soccer league. Happy Hour with friends. Skiing. Boat life. Campfires with s’mores. Favorite
place: Lake Winnipesaukee, NH


“Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, and others make it happen.”-Michael Jordan

MEET OUR TEAM

Johnny Cruz

Technical Recruiter

My name is Johnny Cruz, and I am a Sr. Technical Recruiter here in the Greater Los Angeles area. I am a
talent matchmaker, both fulfilling my clients hiring needs as well as connecting candidates with new
perfect opportunities. My relationships with my candidates, clients, and team members are the most

important thing to me.



I just recently joined Eliassen Group in January 2021. Prior to that, I spent 4 years as a Technical
Recruiter in the Los Angeles market working for two other staffing firms.



I am a first-generation college graduate with a Bachelors from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. I pride myself
on my work ethic and always keeping a positive attitude. I love creating remarkable experience for
both my customers and clients.


Outside of work I love to ski, go off-roading, work on my cars, golf, and go on hikes with my dog!



“There may be people that have more talent than you. But there’s no excuse for anyone to work harder
than you do”-Derek Jeter

MEET OUR TEAM

Lexi Dussi

Brand Manager

Hey! I’m Lexi Dussi and I’ve been a part of the Eliassen Group family for 5 years.
After graduating from Endicott College in 2014, I began my career in headquarters as a member of the marketing team. In

2018 I packed my bags and moved to SoCal, and now I sit alongside some of my best friends in our Los Angeles office as
People Brand Manager.



At my 1st grade picture day, I insisted that I hold a fishing rod like the boys, instead of a flower basket like the girls… I’ve never
been much of a rule follower. In fact, I pride myself on pushing the envelope, and attribute a lot of my success to that.

Eliassen Group has encouraged me to take risks and bring unique and creative ideas to the table and that’s what continues to
energize me. I was honored to earn Presidents Club in 2015 and 2017, but I’m most proud to have helped create culture
content for our organization.



People and culture are my passion. I truly believe that no matter what role you’re in, or what industry you serve, that if you
focus on your relationships with people you will always win.



Please refer to Heather and Ted’s bio for ‘things I do outside of work’. One time, Ted introduced Heather and I as “colleagues”
and I’ve spent the last two years in SoCal trying to solidify a more meaningful friendship with him.

My boss doesn’t love that it’s my motto, but “if you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking up space”.



ME ET OUR TEAM

SANTA CRUZ

MEET OUR TEAM

Crystal McKee

Branch Director

I’m the Branch Director for Eliassen Group’s Santa Cruz office. I’ve been with Eliassen Group since February 2020.
Prior to joining Eliassen Group, I was with The Armada Group for close to 12 years, starting out as a Technical
Recruiter and spending the last 8 years serving as the Director of Talent Acquisition.


As the Branch Director, I love having the ability to coach, mentor and grow my associates in their professional

careers.There is nothing I love more than seeing those on my team find both success and a passion for recruiting. I
love that in this profession I’m constantly connecting with people from all walks of life, often times making life-long

connections.



I grew up in Aptos, California and hold a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration and Marketing Management
from San Francisco State University.



I grew up playing sports and have two older siblings, so I love any type of competition. In my spare time I enjoy
hobbies such as snowboarding, hiking, yoga, softball, the beach, traveling, and spending time with my family, friends

and two dogs, Ziggy & Brody.



I’m extremely goal oriented and firmly believe that “if you aren’t going all the way, why go at all?”.

MEET OUR TEAM

Anthony Maminski

Associate Recruiter

TBD

MEET OUR TEAM

Ashley Powers

Onboarding Program Analyst

My name is Ashley Powers. I am currently the Onboarding Program Analyst. I came to Eliassen from the Armada acquisition in
February 2020 and have had an awesome time transitioning to a new role and meeting my amazing new team.



Prior to working at Eliassen, I was the HR Administrative Assistant at Armada. Because Armada was such a small company, I
was lucky enough to gain experience in onboarding, payroll, accounts payable, and various administrative tasks (including

putting together just shy of 1,000 holiday cards at the end of 2019)! My position at Armada was my first full-time position
coming from an accounting internship at a property management company. Additionally, I have a background in the wine
industry. Although I had to quit my winery job when I started working full time, I spent most of college working in the tasting
room, throughout the bottling process, and as the club member manager of Kissed by an Angel Wines in Scotts Valley, CA.



My professional goal is to become an HR Specialist with a focus in Employee Relations. I have a B.A. in Psychology and
originally wanted to become a MFT, Marriage and Family Therapist. Helping others is my biggest motivator personally and
professionally, and is what gives me the greatest fulfillment in my job. Outside of work, I love to do pretty much anything
active such as snowboarding, hiking, going to the gym, kayaking, boogie boarding, spikeball, attempting to surf, and (as you

can see) skydiving! I am also an artist with acrylic paints being the main medium I use.



Something about me that not a lot of people know is that I moved 6 times in the past five years and went to 4 different
colleges. Although I am very into punk rock, the theme song that best fits me would have to be “New Friends” by Pinegrove. I
have moved around a lot which has led me to meet all kinds of amazing people, but the people I have met in Santa Cruz have

led me to grow roots here.

MEET OUR TEAM

Austin Conner

Account Executive

As an Account Manager, I strive to exceed the requirements of the client while
providing me the opportunity to help propel people forward in their careers. I
started off my own career in sales and management, and that alongside a passion

for helping others led me to Talent Solutions and Consulting.



I grew up local to Santa Cruz, and after spending 8 years in Reno, moved back to
the Bay Area in 2018 where I began my career here. In my free time I enjoy

working out at the gym as an active member of the fitness community for over 10
years. Feel free to get in touch!

MEET OUR TEAM

Bowe Merin

Account Executive

Hey there! My name is Bowen Merin but you can call me Bowe
I have the pleasure of being a Senior Account Executive on the Santa Cruz team. West Coast best coast! In this role, I help

clients solve problems and candidates get their dream job.



I started with Eliassen in June of 2021 but prior to that, I was an Account Manager with Randstad Technologies for almost 4
years. I’m in Sacramento working remotely and will be targeting companies here and in the greater Bay Area. Being in the

Sacramento market for all my career, I have existing customers I hope to continue to work with as well as new targets in
my neck of the woods. I hope to bring many new clients into the Eliassen portfolio!



I’m originally from Stockton, CA and followed my dream of playing in the NFL all the way to Eastern Washington University
on a football scholarship out of high school. After several injuries, I decided to hang up the cleats and enroll at Chico State

University where I graduated with a degree in Business Management and got my first real job (after some partying of
course). Shortly after, I moved in with my girlfriend in Sacramento and got my first job in the staffing industry with
Randstad. We’re now expecting our first child in December!


I’m motivated by my competitive spirit and need to put food on the table for three hungry people.


“If you ain’t first, you’re last!” – Ricky Bobby

MEET OUR TEAM

Diana Romero

Tehcnical Recruiter

My name is Diana and I’m a Technical Recruiter AKA I get people into new and exciting roles and help them
make a change in their career. I’ve been with the company a little over a year and previously spent a year in

education where I was a college advisor in a socio-economically disadvantaged community.



I was fortunate to be a product of a program like the one I facilitated and it helped me secure a spot to
attend the most beautiful university campus in the U.S. (as voted by me), nestled between the ocean and

the redwood forest, University of California, Santa Cruz. I studied Language and Politics. I’m bilingual in
Spanish & English, and understand French pretty well.



My motivator is helping others, I love connecting with people and listening about what matters to them and
hopefully, helping make their next move onto something that’s exciting and going to further their careers.

Mostly, you can find me shimmying through life and the workplace with an unwavering sense of humor,
doing yoga, dancing salsa by the sea or taking long frantic walks with my Pitbull dogs, Bruno & Max, always

looking at the glass half full.

MEET OUR TEAM

Delyse Pretorius

Account Executive

Howzit, everyone! My name is Delyse Pretorius and I am an Account Executive on the Santa Cruz Team. I am
absolutely stoked to be a part of this growing team. Prior to joining Eliassen, I worked as an Account Manager for

Strategic Staffing Solutions for a combined 10 years where I serviced 2 major accounts.I joined Eliassen as I
immediately fell in love with the culture as well as what we do from a philanthropic standpoint.I love to help others

and making a difference in the community we live and work in, is what fuels me.



I am originally from Kimberley, South Africa.I received a tennis scholarship and attended Flagler College in St.
Augustine, FL where I graduated with a degree in Sport Management. I moved to San Francisco in the fall of 2002
where I started off my career in the tennis industry. I taught at a private club as well as coached at San Francisco State
University. I still teach tennis and it remains a passion of mine. I will cry the day Roger Federer decides to retire ☹



Out of the office, I love being active and outdoors. I enjoy hiking, camping, mountain biking, doing Bikram yoga and
playing tennis. I love to travel and try to get back to South Africa to visit my family as much as possible. My favorite

thing to do on a Friday night is to “braai” (South African BBQ), open a good bottle of wine and watch a movie.



“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass.It’s about learning how to dance in the rain…” Vivian Greene..

MEET OUR TEAM

Houston Bailey

Associate Recruiter

As associate recruiter I help the Santa Cruz office find the best talent in the Bay
Area. I have been with the company for only a few months, Prior to this position I
spent some time in the Marine Corps. I graduated from Sac State University with a

Bachelors Degree in Business. So far I really enjoy searching out people and
placing them in great jobs that they will hopefully love.



In my spare time I like to workout in my home gym and ride my motorcycle.



I believe greatness always occurs when you are uncomfortable.

MEET OUR TEAM

Jennifer Ireland

Account Executive

I started off my career in the fitness industry but, after 14 years, decided to seek new
challenges elsewhere. The past 7+ years at The Armada Group gave me the opportunity to

build upon my lifelong interest in technology while continuing to utilize my passion to
help people. I started at The Armada Group as a recruiter and within a year was promoted

to Business Development Manager. Most recently, my primary accounts have been
Splunk, Cepheid, and Fujitsu. I take pride on providing my clients & consultants with an

amazing experience and focus on build lasting relationships.



When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my husband and two daughters, while
my active side enjoys working out and staying healthy. During the spring and summer,
we do lots of camping trips up and down the coast of California.

MEET OUR TEAM

Katie Pokojny

Associate Recruiter

TBD

MEET OUR TEAM

Mitch Postle

Lead Recruiter

Mitchell Postle- I am a technical recruiter focused on building robust technical pipelines and recruiting tech talent. I have
almost 5 years experience recruiting in agency environments. Previously I started my career with the Armada Group and for

the past 3-4 years worked with a boutique content agency based out of Seattle, WA. I was a NAIA Academic All American
while attending Lindenwood University Belleville.



I thrive of competition! I love to work on teams who will push me to be better as I try to push them to be better. In addition
to that, I am very passionate about candidate experience and I work daily on providing a high touch and smooth experience

for consultants from when I call them for the first time to when they start on day one.



I love to camp and fish in the Eastern Sierras with my wife and son. I also raise Dexter beef cattle and lambs on our family
farm. I still enjoy getting out and playing basketball when I can as well.



I am a believer in being a continuous student of your craft, that adversity just makes you a stronger person and that if you
can just become 1% better each day you can achieve greatness.



“Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen” -Michael Jordan

MEET OUR TEAM

Nick Wilkinson

Account Executive

I am a Lead Account Executive out of our Santa Cruz office. I was brought on to build out the San Francisco territory, where I
currently live. I have been in the staffing industry for 5 years. I have supported multiple skill sets, from Applications to Digital

& Creative.



The accomplishments I am most proud of are breaking new accounts. This requires preparation and determination. It can
take multiple months, but in the end the relationships you have and the business you bring in, makes it all worth it.



I have a passion for building relationships. It feels good to take a relationship to the next level while showing them your true
character. Not only providing them a service that is above and beyond but providing them loyalty.



In my free time I love to be outside. In the summer I wakeboard and in the winter I snowboard. The rest of the time you can
find me in the gym.



My high school quote was “The saddest thing in life is wasted talent”. This was a quote from my favorite movie The Bronx
Tale. This quote is still relevant to my life today. I work on helping talented individuals find their next career opportunity. I

don’t let talent be wasted and I will make sure I continue to use my talent to dominate in this space.

MEET OUR TEAM

Shelley Baca

Strategic HR Business Partner

My name is Shelley Baca, and I am a Strategic HR Business Partner at Eliassen Group. I have been with the company for about 9
months via the acquisition of The Armada Group. During my 13 years as Armada’s Director of HR & Administration, I played a large
role in developing and managing back office operations and saw my department as heavily influential on how well our front office

staff performed by ensuring they had the right training, tools, and programs to succeed.



As an SHRBP, my primary focuses are being the company’s OFCCP/AAP/EEO go to resource, HR analytics, and continuously
evaluating and optimizing operational HR efficiencies. I am excited for the new challenges of my current role and positively
impacting the relationship between HR and the Front Office. I love HR because we are solution finders, growth enablers, value

creators, and have the ability to improve people’s working lives.



Outside of work, I have four kids, Mason, Isabella, Rosalyn, and Wesley who keep me and my husband Steve on our toes and
motivate us each and every day. With four kids 10 and under, there is not much time for hobbies, but I love cooking and baking,

and when I can I love taking walks, fixing things/a good DIY project/interior design, reading books, and gardening.



A fun fact is that in high school I was a mathlete and lettered in academics… nerd alert!



Life has definitely not been easy and I had meager beginnings, but I had a great mom who instilled a strong work ethic in me. My
theme song would be Fight Song by Rachel Platten and some quotes I live by are that “luck is what happens when preparation
meets opportunity” and “opportunity is often missed because it’s dressed in overalls and looks a lot like work”.

MEET OUR TEAM

Steven Eichhorn

Technical Recruiter

I am joining Eliassen as a Senior Technical Recruiter after working in recruiting for the last year and a half. Prior to
beginning my recruiting career, I received a degree in Business and Public Policy with a concentration in Management

from Young Harris College in Georgia, where I also pursued my passion by playing collegiate baseball.



Helping others is something I thoroughly enjoy, which is why recruiting is such a motivating and fulfilling profession. It is
great to develop relationships with a variety of people with different backgrounds and aspirations and assist them with

achieving their goals, while at the same time gaining invaluable knowledge about the ever-changing tech industry.



Outside of work, I enjoy staying active by working out, continuing to play baseball in an adult league, and surfing, as well
as playing and creating music on guitar and piano. I am also a huge fan of any type of competitive game, such as ping
pong or video and board games.


“There may be people who have more talent than you, but there's no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do” –
Derek Jeter