Damien Howard, Grant Wagner Founder and CEO: “As a leader, I believe that you should always foster innovation and consistently focus on creating solutions that solve problems”

In the highly competitive world we live in, businesses undergo many challenges in talent acquisition. The rapid evolution of technology has created a persistent skills gap, where the expertise demanded by enterprises often outdo the capabilities possessed by prospective candidates. This has created a need for constant reassessment of talent needs and a commitment to training and development initiatives to bridge this gap. Moreover, globalization and the prevalence of remote work have further escalated competition for talent to a global scale. Companies find themselves competing not just with local counterparts but also with international organizations, increasing the challenge of attracting and retaining skilled professionals who have a plethora of employment options.

Globally, there are various companies delivering excellent talent acquisition services, but Grant Wagner stands out from the rest. Recognizing the complex challenges faced by enterprises—ranging from skill shortages to evolving technologies—Grant Wagner was established as a solution-oriented firm. With over 23 years of profound talent acquisition experience, the company promotes a partnership approach, transcending the role of mere service provider to become a trusted ally in client success. Through innovative strategies, precise methodologies, and unwavering support, Grant Wagner empowers businesses to navigate the ever-evolving IT talent market with confidence and efficiency.

In conversation with Damien Howard, Founder and CEO of Grant Wagner

Q. How would you describe your professional journey so far? Tell us about a few roadblocks and learning lessons that helped you grow through the years.

My professional journey has been marked by both challenges and rewards, providing ample opportunities for growth and learning along the way. Adversity has been a consistent theme, prompting me to cultivate resilience and adaptability, qualities I consider essential for navigating the complexities of both professional and personal spheres. I resonate with Nassim Taleb’s concept of being “Anti-Fragile,” wherein adversity not only toughens but also strengthens one’s resolve and capabilities. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to encounter supportive individuals whose guidance and assistance have been instrumental in my progress.

I have learned many lessons through the years. Here are a few headliners:

• You have to be a servant leader if you want to be effective. Leading with authenticity is a pillar of my overall business approach.
• Be relentlessly curious while leading or managing people. There is always something driving people to behave a certain way, and by leaning into curiosity, you can find an amicable path forward most of the time.
• Be repetitive and extremely clear about your ‘Why’ for the business. It will help to re-center everyone as you navigate through change.
• Strive hard to listen at different levels. Don’t listen to respond; listen to understand and build a path forward. Exercise listening levels like Internal listening, Focused listening and Global listening.
• Learn the difference between when the company needs collaboration and when it needs cooperation! Both are required if you are going to scale a business.

Q. Could you introduce us to your services? What are their key features?

Grant Wagner offers a distinguished array of services in the staffing industry, distinguished by our commitment to innovation and client satisfaction. Our approach is defined by several key differentiators that set us apart from the competition. First and foremost is our customized Sourcing Model, which leverages subject matter expert (SME) recruiters with extensive industry, technology, and domain experience. This ensures that clients receive tailored solutions backed by a deep understanding of their specific needs. Grant Wagner prioritizes quality over quantity, focusing on Talent-Aligned Candidates to streamline the recruitment process and optimize outcomes for their clients.

Our Consultant Engagement Model provides a full-service experience, complete with designated liaisons, ongoing surveys, and real-time reports, ensuring transparent and effective communication throughout the engagement. Grant Wagner also offers valuable Business Intelligence, equipping clients with up-to-date market insights and recommendations to make informed decisions. What truly sets Grant Wagner apart is our access to global talent, facilitated by an in-house Immigration Department, enabling us to provide diverse and skilled candidates to meet any staffing requirement.

As a Minority-Owned Firm, we bring a unique perspective and commitment to diversity and inclusion to our services. This is why we’ve focused on partnerships with non-profits through our Grant Wagner Gives initiative. Organizations like Veterans Who Code, NESB, ITSFM, Good Lounge and more trust us to represent their mission with respect. Our core values and mission align with our partners. We’re focused on giving back and driving opportunity for organizations that positively impact our society.

With extensive experience in workforce and staffing solutions, Grant Wagner operates as a focused boutique firm, allowing us to be nimble, responsive, and capable of delivering both volume and quality. Our expertise spans key areas such as AI, Salesforce, Work, SAP, Cyber, DevOps, Cloud, App Development, Software, Data/BI, Infrastructure, and Professional Services, ensuring comprehensive coverage across diverse technological and functional domains.

Overall, Grant Wagner offers a dynamic and client-centric approach to staffing, marked by innovation, expertise, and a relentless dedication to exceeding expectations in every engagement.

Q. As the CEO of the company, what are your major roles and responsibilities?

As the CEO and Founder of Grant Wagner, I am entrusted with a diverse array of responsibilities pivotal to our company’s success. Setting the overarching vision and strategy, I chart the course for our organization’s growth and prosperity. Providing astute leadership and management, I ensure that every decision is informed and intentional, driving us towards our objectives. Fiscal management lies at the core of my duties, safeguarding the financial health of the company. I am vigilant in managing risk and ensuring compliance with regulations. Operational efficiency is paramount, and I tirelessly work to streamline processes across the firm. Monitoring and managing critical KPIs guide our path towards sustained growth. Business development and sales initiatives are under my purview, fostering expansion and revenue generation. Talent acquisition and management are key areas where I nurture a dynamic team. Above all, I remain committed to continuous learning and gratitude, recognizing their profound impact on our journey.

Q. How do you see Grant Wagner changing in five years, and how do you see yourself creating that change?  

By year five, with the proper execution of growth strategies and adaptation to market demands, Grant Wagner will experience significant growth and expansion. Below you will find what I believe will be the pillars of progress and growth over the next five years:

• Grant Wagner will expand into multiple global markets, establishing a solid presence across multiple geographies.

• By year five, Grant Wagner will have established a sophisticated and diverse client portfolio, including multinational corporations, leading technology companies, and emerging startups. Strong client relationships and a reputation for delivering exceptional staffing solutions will contribute to a high client retention rate.

• Grant Wagner’s talent network will be unmatched. Our extensive network of highly skilled IT professionals across different domains and technologies will be key. This talent pool will be constantly updated and expanded to meet the evolving demands of clients.

• The company’s revenue will have experienced significant growth over the years. With an expanded client base, increased bill rates, and higher demand for specialized IT talent.

• Our internal team would have grown substantially to support its expanding operations. This will include additional recruiters, sales professionals, HR personnel, and support staff to ensure the smooth functioning of the business, which will meet the growing demands of our clients.

• Year-over-year, Grant Wagner will implement major technological advancements. We will steadily use technology to streamline our operations, enhance candidate screening and matching processes, and provide a seamless experience for clients and candidates. Business investments will be focused on automation, artificial intelligence, and data analytics, which will improve efficiency and provide a competitive edge.

• Grant Wagner will have gained industry recognition and earned accolades for its exceptional services, customer satisfaction, and contributions to the staffing industry.

“Stay far away from simply reacting to problems or you will never have the space to grow your business.”