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Wanda Smith and Her Journey in the Staffing Industry

Wanda Smith, the visionary founder and current CEO of Symphony Placements, has undoubtedly made her mark in the staffing industry. With over three decades of extensive experience under her belt, she has been recognized as a true influence in the sector. This month, she has received a prestigious accolade by being named a 2025 Pinnacle Professional Member of the Inner Circle of Excellence, highlighting her remarkable contributions and dedication to the field.

The Birth of Symphony Placements

Founded in 2006, Symphony Placements caters to both the government and private sectors, specializing in temporary and supplemental staffing solutions. The company stands out with its innovative consultative approach, which effectively matches clients with the right talent across various sectors including medical, legal, administrative, and customer service.

Wanda's journey began at a challenging point in her life; she launched Symphony Placements at the age of 59, following the loss of her husband. Facing this transition head-on, she established a minority-owned business that has since become a nationally recognized staffing firm. Her commitment to excellence is evident in the company’s rapid growth trajectory and its stellar reputation among clients.

A Commitment to Diversity and Empowerment

One of the hallmarks of Wanda's leadership is her focus on diversity and empowerment. Symphony Placements holds numerous certifications, including Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), and Women Business Enterprise (WBE). These accolades not only reflect her commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment but also signify her role in paving the way for other women and minority entrepreneurs.

Through her consultative approach, Wanda has developed best practices in recruiting and onboarding that enhance talent acquisition capabilities. Her leadership has significantly contributed to boosting the standards of staffing practices within the industry, offering clients bespoke solutions tailored to their specific needs.

Beyond Business: Personal Life and Future Plans

While she thrives in her professional life, Wanda also cherishes her personal moments. Balancing career ambitions with personal enjoyment, she loves spending time on the golf course, cruising, and traveling with her family—especially her husband, John Ritzenthaler, and her son, Alban Smith, Jr.

With the momentum her business has gained, Wanda is not resting on her laurels. She has paved the way for Symphony Placements' future through a strategic succession plan. Her business partner, Marta Chavatel, the company's President, is poised to take the reins of leadership. Marta has been instrumental in driving Symphony’s growth, ensuring that the firm's high standards and reputation will be upheld even as Wanda prepares to retire from daily operations in the coming years.

Conclusion

Wanda Smith's recognition as a Pinnacle Professional Member is not just a personal achievement but also a testament to her extraordinary contributions to the staffing industry. Her journey from widowhood to becoming a leader in business showcases the power of resilience, innovation, and commitment to excellence. As Symphony Placements continues to expand its horizons, Wanda’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of entrepreneurs aiming to make their mark in the business world.