ESS Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

ESS has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and ownership.

Dedicated to empowering educational institutions, ESS specializes in providing essential staffing solutions that ensure seamless daily operations and support student success across K-12 districts nationwide.

Leadership Roles at ESS

  • Chief Executive Officer - Nicholas Phillips
  • Chairman & Chief Executive Officer - Buddy Helton
  • Chief Executive Officer & Chief Technology Officer - William Brockmeyer
  • Chief Financial Officer - John Devall
  • President & Chief Operating Officer - Steve Gritzuk
  • Owner and President - Kimberly Berg
  • Nicholas Phillips - Chief Executive Officer

    Nicholas Phillips, the Chief Executive Officer at ESS, directs the company's overarching strategic vision and operational execution. Phillips guides ESS in its mission to provide qualified staff for daily, long-term, and permanent K-12 school district positions. This leadership involves fostering innovation in staffing solutions and ensuring the company remains at the forefront of the education staffing sector. Phillips's focus centers on expanding market reach and enhancing service delivery to meet the evolving needs of school districts. The Chief Executive Officer's role is critical in driving growth and maintaining ESS's reputation for reliability and excellence in placing substitute teachers, paraprofessionals, and other essential school support staff. Nicholas Phillips ensures alignment across all departments to achieve organizational objectives and uphold the company's commitment to educational support.

    Buddy Helton - Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

    Buddy Helton, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer at ESS, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the organization. Helton's role encompasses guiding the company's long-term vision and ensuring its continued success in the education staffing industry. As Chairman, Helton oversees board activities and corporate governance, reinforcing ESS's commitment to ethical practices and stakeholder value. The Chief Executive Officer responsibilities involve driving key initiatives that support ESS's specialization in placing qualified staff, including substitute teachers and paraprofessionals, within K-12 school districts. Buddy Helton's leadership ensures the company's operational framework effectively supports its mission of delivering reliable staffing solutions. This executive guides the strategic expansion and operational integrity of ESS across its service areas.
    Buddy Helton

    William Brockmeyer - Chief Executive Officer & Chief Technology Officer

    William Brockmeyer, the Chief Executive Officer & Chief Technology Officer at ESS, spearheads both the strategic direction and the technological advancements of the company. Brockmeyer's dual role ensures that ESS leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance its staffing solutions for K-12 school districts. This involves overseeing the development and implementation of innovative platforms that streamline the placement of substitute teachers, paraprofessionals, and other support staff. The Chief Technology Officer function focuses on optimizing operational efficiency and data security through robust technological infrastructure. William Brockmeyer's leadership drives the integration of technology into ESS's core business model, supporting its mission to provide seamless and effective staffing services. This executive's vision is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge and adapting to the digital demands of the education sector.

    John Devall - Chief Financial Officer

    John Devall, the Chief Financial Officer at ESS, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Devall oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring ESS maintains a strong economic foundation. This role is critical in supporting the company's growth initiatives and its specialization in providing staffing solutions for K-12 school districts. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise guides investment decisions and resource allocation, enabling ESS to effectively place substitute teachers and other essential personnel. John Devall's leadership ensures fiscal responsibility and compliance across all financial activities, contributing to the company's long-term stability and operational capacity. Devall's strategic financial management underpins ESS's ability to serve its clients reliably.
    John Devall

    Steve Gritzuk - President & Chief Operating Officer

    Steve Gritzuk, the President & Chief Operating Officer at ESS, directs the day-to-day operational activities and oversees the execution of the company's strategic objectives. Gritzuk's leadership ensures the efficient and effective delivery of staffing services to K-12 school districts nationwide. This involves managing the core processes for placing substitute teachers, paraprofessionals, and other school support staff, ensuring seamless operations. The Chief Operating Officer's focus is on optimizing workflows, enhancing service quality, and driving operational excellence across all departments. Steve Gritzuk's role is vital in maintaining the high standards of service that ESS provides, supporting its mission to be a leading provider in the education staffing space. Gritzuk's operational oversight guarantees the reliable deployment of qualified personnel to meet district needs.
    Steve Gritzuk

    Kimberly Berg - Owner and President

    Kimberly Berg, the Owner and President at ESS, holds a pivotal position in guiding the company's strategic direction and overall business development. Berg's ownership stake signifies a deep commitment to the company's mission of serving K-12 school districts with essential staffing solutions. As President, Berg collaborates with executive leadership to drive growth and innovation within the education staffing sector. This role involves overseeing key business initiatives and ensuring that ESS continues to excel in placing qualified personnel, including substitute teachers and paraprofessionals. Kimberly Berg's influence is critical in shaping the company's culture and its dedication to providing reliable support to educational institutions. Berg's leadership ensures the sustained success and strategic evolution of ESS.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding ESS Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads ESS?
    ESS is led by Nicholas Phillips (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Buddy Helton (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer) and William Brockmeyer (Chief Executive Officer & Chief Technology Officer).
    Who is part of ESS’s executive team?
    The executive team of ESS includes leaders such as Nicholas Phillips (Chief Executive Officer), Buddy Helton (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer), William Brockmeyer (Chief Executive Officer & Chief Technology Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does ESS have?
    ESS has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in ESS’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of ESS includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Chief Technology Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President & Chief Operating Officer.