Wanda Smith, CEO of Symphony Placements, Honored as a Pinnacle Professional Member

Wanda Smith, founder and CEO of Symphony Placements, has achieved recognition as a 2025 Pinnacle Professional Member as highlighted in The Inner Circle. This esteemed accolade reflects her pioneering efforts and contributions to the staffing industry over her impressive over 30 years of experience.

Established in 2006, Symphony Placements has flourished under Smith's leadership, specializing in providing temporary and supplemental staffing for both government entities and private sector clients. Known for its consultative approach, the firm effectively connects clients with the right talent for various roles including those in large customer contact centers, medical, administrative, and legal services. Furthermore, the company has played a crucial role in large project staffing for call centers, incorporating a virtual workforce that helps clients save significantly on operational overhead across the continental United States.

Launching Symphony Placements at age 59, following the passing of her husband, Wanda Smith's journey is not just about business success; it’s also a personal triumph. Her firm is certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Women Business Enterprise (WBE), and a Small Women Minority Business (SWARM). Currently, the WOSB certification is undergoing review, emphasizing the company’s commitment to excellence and diversity in the workplace.

Under Ms. Smith's dynamic leadership, Symphony Placements has not only grown its client base from its original roots in Baltimore but has also become a national staffing partner known for building enduring relationships with clients while securing critical government certifications. This has added further to the firm’s reputation for exceptional service quality.

A recognized leader within the staffing sector, Wanda prides herself on her ability to foster innovation and develop effective recruiting as well as onboarding practices that align with the needs of international human service, advisory, consulting, and tech companies. Her emphasis on creating an empowering environment for women in business also establishes her as a role model, influencing a new generation of female leaders.

Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Ms. Smith enjoys a rich personal life filled with passions such as golf, cruising, and travel. She finds balance between her thriving business career and her family life, sharing special moments with her husband, John Ritzenthaler, and her son, Alban Smith, Jr.

As she looks toward the future, Wanda Smith continues to prioritize the long-term growth of Symphony Placements. Planning for succession, she has worked closely with her business partner, Marta Chavatel, who currently plays a crucial role in daily operations and business development of the organization. Chavatel is set to take over the CEO position in due time, ensuring that the vision of Symphony Placements endures, allowing it to maintain its influence and excellence in the staffing industry even as Wanda transitions into retirement.

Wanda Smith's story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and empowerment—both in business and personal spheres. As she continues to lead Symphony Placements into a new era of growth, her journey remains an inspiration for many aspiring female entrepreneurs and professionals across the globe.