Why Choose RJS?

Your decision to engage a recruiting firm should not be random – You want to work with a reliable partner who knows the best way to reach your objectives quickly and cost effectively.

RJS Associates can readily identify skilled technical and managerial professionals who will meet your company’s needs. We listen carefully to you in order to fully assess and understand your hiring goals. We screen candidates thoroughly in order to determine their abilities and career plans.

With an average associate tenure of 12 years, RJS Associates is here to stay in a world of ever changing recruiting experts.
Over 200 placements annually. Resulting in $ 16M in salaries. We provide value!
You talk. We listen. We’ll surround you with meaningful attention that fosters a long term relationship
We strive to solve problems and look for creative solutions that will drive your business bottom line

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What We Do Best

Identify, Assess, and Deliver top talent on difficult searches.

Maintain an open dialogue from initial contact through on-boarding.

Build long term relationships, solving hiring needs in multiple departments.

Strive to understand the needs of our clients and offer custom solutions.

Learn how we can help you as an employer, or check out our latest job listings.

Our Leadership

Brad Earnest, CPC

Managing Partner / Engineering Recruiter

Since joining the firm in 1993, Brad has developed an outstanding Engineering/Manufacturing practice. His tenacious and honest approach has earned Brad countless company awards, most notably 8 Consultant of the Year designations. He has managed the Engineering team to outstanding results over his tenure. A graduate of East Stroudsburg University, Brad now applies his sports background to coaching youth sports. He resides with his family in Columbia, CT.

John Reever, CPC

Managing Partner / Pharmaceutical Recruiter

John joined RJS Associates in 1991, and developed his reputation as an outstanding recruiter nationwide. He specializes in all aspects of Pharmaceutical R&D and operations and has earned numerous awards while managing the Pharmaceutical team and the Sales Recruitment team. John graduated from the University of Connecticut and over the years, has represented this firm as a speaker, trainer, and board member. Previously, he served as a member of both the Board of Education and the Board of Selectmen where he resides with his family in Colchester, CT

Management

Heather Stoddard
Operations & Finance Manager

Since joining the firm in 2005, Heather has excelled at every support function within RJS. In 2015 Heather was promoted to the Operations and Finance Manager becoming an integral part of the leadership team at RJS.

Drew Symes, CPC
Manager / Senior Engineering Recruiter/Partner

Drew joined RJS Associates in 2001 and specializes in Engineering/Manufacturing. His strong client relationships have earned him numerous Client Development awards and Department honors. Educated at Seton Hall University, Drew is active in coaching Youth Sports. He resides with his family in Bristol, CT.

Staff

Kenan Chaplin
Senior Accounting/Finance Recruiter

Kenan holds his Master's degree in accounting from Post University and a Bachelors from Central Connecticut State University. Starting his professional career within Big 4 public accounting firms KPMG and EY, he now joins the team as a Finance and Accounting Recruiter. Kenan enjoys spending time with family, traveling and rooting for the Philadelphia Eagles.

Alan Gravelle
Manager of Network Operations

Alan has supervised the computer operations and systems of RJS Associates since 1999. His extensive technical education and experience has been invaluable to the growth of the company. Residing in Bristol, CT, Alan is an avid photographer, camper and is a motorcycle enthusiast.

Joan Hansen, CPC
Senior Accounting/Finance Recruiter/Partner

Educated at UMass, Joan has recruited all levels of Accountants, Auditors and Financial professionals since 2003. Over the years, she has received numerous Department awards and Client development awards. She and her family reside in Windsor, CT.

Jason Oliver, CPC
Senior Engineering Recruiter

Since joining the firm in 2004, Jason has managed a very active Engineering recruiting desk. Bachelor’s from the University of Rhode Island, Masters from Springfield College, he has earned several Client Development awards during his time. Jason and his active family live in Glastonbury, CT.

Sharmi Pattanayak
Senior IT/Engineering Recruiter

Sharmi is an expert in Information Technology and Manufacturing recruitment with over 13 years of experience in the field. Holding a solid educational foundation in computer engineering, she has successfully navigated roles across the US, India, and Germany. Outside of her professional pursuits, Sharmi enjoys traveling, cooking, and cherishing moments with her family.

Joe Pitino
Senior Engineering Recruiter

Joe has been an Engineering/Manufacturing recruiter since 2004. With over 20 years of identifying and placing top talent, he has had success in all aspects of the field, hands-on roles to VP level. Joe was the sole proprietor of his own firm for 15 years.

When not recruiting, Joe enjoys spending time with his family at his seasonal campsite. Joe is a lifelong CT resident.

Laura Roberts, CPC
Senior Scientific/Pharmaceutical Recruiter/Partner

Joining the firm in 1988, Laura has established her practice in the placement of Pharmaceutical R&D and operations. Winner of numerous client development awards and accolades for her work.

Chris Sidavong, CPC
Senior Scientific/Pharmaceutical Recruiter

Chris, specializing in Pharmaceutical R&D and manufacturing, joined the firm in 2006. Educated at Central Connecticut State University, he has received Client Development awards and praise from his clients. When not recruiting, Chris is an avid motorcycle racer and continues playing hockey in his spare time.