ESS Executive and Leadership Team

Nicholas Phillips, the Chief Executive Officer at ESS, directs the overarching strategic vision for K-12 staffing operations. Phillips architects long-term growth initiatives while ensuring the organization maintains high standards for substitute teacher placement. By aligning corporate objectives with the evolving needs of school districts, the Chief Executive Officer fosters partnerships that stabilize classroom environments. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of market trends to optimize service delivery across diverse regional districts. Nicholas Phillips monitors performance metrics to guarantee that every school partner receives reliable, qualified support staff. Through rigorous oversight of internal processes, the Chief Executive Officer drives efficiency and maintains the reputation of the firm as a premier provider in the education sector. Ultimately, Phillips secures the operational integrity required to support academic continuity for students and faculty in districts nationwide.

Buddy Helton, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer at ESS, governs the board and directs high-level corporate strategy. Helton oversees the expansion of staffing services, ensuring the company remains the primary resource for K-12 districts seeking permanent and daily support staff. By chairing executive sessions, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer aligns leadership priorities with the mission of improving educational outcomes. This role requires constant engagement with stakeholders to refine the business model and scale operations across new geographic territories. Buddy Helton evaluates financial health and market positioning to sustain competitive advantages in the education staffing industry. Through decisive leadership, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer ensures that the organization meets the complex demands of modern school systems. Helton maintains a focus on long-term sustainability and excellence in service delivery, reinforcing the commitment to quality staffing solutions for every partner district.

John Devall, the Chief Financial Officer at ESS, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for the organization. Devall directs financial planning, budgeting, and reporting processes to ensure the company maintains the resources necessary for scaling K-12 staffing operations. By analyzing revenue streams from daily and long-term placements, the Chief Financial Officer provides actionable insights that guide executive decision-making. This role involves mitigating financial risks while optimizing investments in technology and human capital. John Devall collaborates with other leaders to ensure that fiscal policies support the broader mission of providing reliable school support staff. Through meticulous oversight of accounting functions, the Chief Financial Officer maintains transparency and compliance across all regional operations. Devall drives profitability by identifying cost-saving opportunities and streamlining financial workflows, ultimately ensuring the long-term economic stability of the firm as it serves school districts across the country.

Steve Gritzuk, the President & Chief Operating Officer at ESS, manages the day-to-day execution of staffing services and operational workflows. Gritzuk directs the implementation of standardized procedures for recruiting, vetting, and placing paraprofessionals and teachers in K-12 districts. By overseeing regional operations, the President & Chief Operating Officer ensures that service delivery remains consistent and responsive to the unique requirements of each school partner. This role involves coordinating between departments to optimize the supply chain of qualified personnel. Steve Gritzuk monitors performance indicators to identify areas for process improvement and service expansion. Through active management of field teams, the President & Chief Operating Officer drives operational excellence and maintains high fill rates for school districts. Gritzuk focuses on scaling the business model to meet the increasing demand for reliable school support staff, ensuring that the organization consistently delivers value to the education community.

Kimberly Berg, the Owner and President at ESS, defines the core values and long-term vision for the organization. Berg directs the strategic direction of the company, ensuring that the mission of providing high-quality K-12 staffing remains the primary focus. By fostering a culture of excellence, the Owner and President guides the leadership team in maintaining strong relationships with school districts and educators. This role involves overseeing the brand identity and market reputation of the firm. Kimberly Berg evaluates new opportunities for growth and service diversification to ensure the company adapts to the changing landscape of education. Through consistent engagement with key stakeholders, the Owner and President ensures that the organization remains committed to its founding principles. Berg drives initiatives that prioritize the needs of students and schools, reinforcing the position of the firm as a trusted partner in the education staffing sector.

Anne Vocino, the President at ESS, leads specific business units focused on enhancing the reach and impact of staffing solutions. Vocino directs the development of client-facing strategies that help school districts address critical staffing shortages. By overseeing the implementation of specialized programs for substitute teachers and support staff, the President ensures that districts receive tailored solutions that meet local needs. This role involves collaborating with regional managers to drive market penetration and improve service quality. Anne Vocino monitors the effectiveness of placement programs and adjusts tactics to ensure optimal outcomes for school partners. Through strategic leadership, the President fosters a collaborative environment that supports the professional growth of staff and the operational success of schools. Vocino drives initiatives that strengthen the market position of the firm, ensuring that the organization continues to provide essential support to the K-12 education system.

Steven Erickson, the Chief Information Officer at ESS, architects the digital infrastructure that powers K-12 staffing and placement services. Erickson directs the development of proprietary software platforms that connect qualified substitute teachers with school districts in real-time. By overseeing cybersecurity protocols and data management systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures the protection of sensitive information for both staff and school partners. This role involves integrating advanced analytics to improve the efficiency of the matching process between candidates and school needs. Steven Erickson leads the technology team in implementing scalable solutions that support rapid growth across multiple states. Through continuous innovation, the Chief Information Officer enhances the user experience for educators and administrators alike. Erickson drives digital transformation initiatives that keep the company at the forefront of the education staffing industry, ensuring that technology remains a core enabler of operational success and service reliability.