Forty Under 40: Sara Staley

Spend any amount of time with Sara Staley and it will be clear — she is a people person.

The Fort Smith native has tapped into that talent to build a successful 11-year career with the commercial staffing firm Staffmark, supervising a staff of recruiters and staffing specialists responsible for fulfilling the employment needs of customers in the local market.

Hired in 2005 as an account executive, she made a splash her first year by closing more accounts, 91, than anyone in the company.

She was promoted to her current job two years later, and in 2008 was recognized by the company for managing a branch with the most improved income.

Staley, now consistently one of the top five Staffmark sales associates in the mid-south territory, is now responsible for managing multiple lines of business that account for more than $7 million in revenue for Staffmark.

Her most recent accomplishment was a 25 percent increase in revenue in the Northwest Arkansas market in 2015.

Staley said honesty is the philosophy that guides her approach to her job.

“In any sales position, you’re motivated to make that sale, but my reputation lies on how we execute afterward,” she explained. “You’ve got to think long-term. Being honest and having high integrity wins out more than anything.”

Staley, a Leadership Benton County graduate, earned a psychology degree from the University of Arkansas, and holds multiple certifications, including the Professional in Human Resources (PHR). She is involved with several professional groups, including the Northwest Arkansas Human Resources Association, presently serving as membership chair.

Married with two sons, Staley said her hobbies include her family, hiking and anything with a social element.

“I love people in my work life and in my personal life,” she said.