Leadership Transition at Express Employment Following Co-Founder's Passing

Leadership Change at Express Employment International

In a significant leadership shift, Express Employment International has appointed Bob Funk, Jr. as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), following the recent passing of co-founder Bill Stoller. Stoller's vision, alongside that of fellow co-founder Bob Funk, Sr., laid the groundwork for a seamless transition backed by a well-thought-out succession plan that was in place long before this moment. Funk, Jr. will not only continue in his role as President but will also take on the mantle of Chairman of the Board.

Reflecting on this transition, Funk, Jr. acknowledged the thoughtful planning and commitment to their shared vision that Bill and Bob created—a vision grounded in the principles of strength, stability, and service. He stated, “We will move forward together, grounded in our mission and more committed than ever to help the entrepreneurs, people, and communities we serve.”

Since its establishment in 1983, Express Employment has risen to prominence as one of the largest privately held staffing companies globally. The company operates its flagship brand, Express Employment Professionals, which ranks as the fourth-largest staffing firm in the United States and the 13th largest worldwide, based on data from Staffing Industry Analysts. In addition to its primary operations in the US, Express is present in Canada, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.

Furthermore, Express boasts affiliated brands such as the Specialized Recruiting Group, Express Healthcare Staffing, and the Frontline Recruiting Group, demonstrating the company's diverse capabilities in staffing and recruitment services.

For the fiscal year 2024, Express reported sales totaling $3.7 billion, marking the fourth-best sales year in the company’s more than four decades of operations. Funk, Jr. expressed profound confidence in Express's future and the talented individuals who will carry forward the legacy built by its founders.

“The founders didn’t just build a company; they created a culture, a family, and something designed to endure,” he remarked. As the company navigates this new chapter, it remains dedicated to its mission of connecting people with meaningful employment opportunities while assisting businesses in finding competent candidates.

Express Employment International stands firm in its belief that despite the leadership transition, its core values and missions will continue to guide its operations. This transition marks not only a new era for the company but also the continuation of a legacy that Bill Stoller imparted during his tenure.

As the company progresses under Funk, Jr.'s leadership, stakeholders and employees alike are expressing optimism about the future path of Express Employment International. The company’s resilient culture and established reputation position it well to meet the ongoing challenges and opportunities within the staffing industry.

For media inquiries, representatives from Express Employment have stated that any follow-up can be directed to their Director of Corporate Communications at [insert email]. This change in management at one of the industry’s leading staffing firms is closely watched and is set to influence not just the company, but the entire sector as it adapts to the shifting employment landscape.