MEET NAPEO’S NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEMBERS

ERIC FOSTER
Managing Principal
PEO Velocity by Compass/PRM

How did you join the PEO industry and what were your first impressions?
I joined as President of the PEO Division of Aetna back in 2007. It was, and continues to be, a high energy and dynamic industry. NAPEO stood out as a very welcoming and collegial association of industry experts.

What continues to inspire you about the PEO industry today?
New investment, new geographies, new partners, and expanding services. There are still ample opportunities to grow.

How do you think the industry will evolve in the next decade or so?
The industry will adopt AI technologies to better profile SMBs and customize services. There will be enhanced marketing and customer service, too.

What do you think will be the biggest challenge for PEOs in the years ahead?
Acquiring adequate, well-trained internal staff to support the growing PEO platform.

Why did you want to join the NAPEO Board?
I’ve had the pleasure of serving as Chairman of the Associate Member Committee for three years and witnessed the significant contributions of the Board in serving the needs of NAPEO members and the industry. I’m excited by the opportunity to contribute directly to the discussions.

What’s your advice to other members who want to become more involved in the association?
The NAPEO staff, Board, and committee chairs are all very open to discussing opportunities for members to get more involved. If there aren’t immediate openings for leadership positions, there are many opportunities to speak at NAPEO events and contribute articles to PEO Insider®. Those are great avenues to increase engagement.

Are you involved with any other professional organizations and/or community groups?
At PEO Velocity, we believe giving back through charitable efforts is a cornerstone of our business mission. We’ve been consistent contributors to NAPEO Gives Back, supporting Give Kids the World Village most recently, and other organizations like Blessings in a Backpack, The Salvation Army, and the Payton Wright Foundation. We’ve also replaced our traditional client gifts with items that support charitable organizations, including funding charities as clients direct us.

Can you share something non-work related to help members get to know you a little more?
As many of our know, I enjoy traveling with my wife, Jessie, who has become fast friends with many NAPEO members. I also unwind from busy work weeks playing favorites on the piano.

 

ANGELA L. HOCH
Executive Vice President
Hexagon HR

How did you join the PEO industry and what were your first impressions?
I came from the banking industry and started in the payroll department for a startup PEO in the 1990’s.

What continues to inspire you about the PEO industry today?
Helping business owners and their worksite employees. It is so rewarding to see the positive impact a PEO brings to the table.

How do you think the industry will evolve in the next decade or so?
I fear more consolidation due to long-time PEO owner retirements which will lead to acquisitions. Unless we focus on the next generation of PEO leaders and help mentor/grow these future leaders, the industry will not continue to evolve and grow.

What do you think will be the biggest challenge for PEOs in the years ahead?
The IRS relationship and their view on PEOs, plus monitoring other legislation being presented and the effect it has on a PEO and client relationship.

Why did you want to join the NAPEO Board?
To continue helping move this awesome industry forward. I hope to share my personal experience and insight from a PEO and associate member’s perspective.

What’s your advice to other members who want to become more involved in the association?
Volunteer! What are your areas of expertise? Step outside of your comfort zone and join a committee. Start with regular attendance at conferences, talk with the NAPEO team or reach out to any board member. We are here to help and want your NAPEO membership to be rewarding to you and your organization.

Are you involved with any other professional organizations and/or community groups?
Anything to do with our veterans or military but nothing specific at this time due to building a newer PEO. I do like to assist with fundraisers in the community. If they need money, time or donations, I like to help the ones struggling so they can reach their goals.

Can you share something non-work related to help members get to know you a little more?
Enjoying “empty nester” phase of life with my husband, Jeff and our two German Shepherds, Sako & Tikka. Looking to do a little more travel and hopefully plan a cross-country RV trip in the near future! One of my bucket list items!

 

MELISSA KELLY
Senior Director, Government Relations
ADP TotalSource, Inc.

How did you join the PEO industry and what were your first impressions?
A little over a decade ago, I learned of a government affairs opening at NAPEO and was fortunate to be offered and accept the job. My first impression was an excitement about the scope of services that PEOs offer their clients, the positive impact PEOs have in the small business base and the camaraderie members of the industry share.

What continues to inspire you about the PEO industry today?
The impact that PEOs have on their small and midsize business clients is remarkable. Hearing ADP TotalSource clients speak to the benefits of partnering with a PEO is not only inspiring, but heartwarming. And the NAPEO data about PEOs’ impact on employee recruitment, retention and business success reinforces those benefits are widespread.

How do you think the industry will evolve in the next decade or so?
Perhaps it is stating the obvious — the industry will continue to grow. Remote work has become more common, making HR and compliance more complex. The industry has been nimble, adapting to new government requirements and incorporating new technology to increase efficiency and enhance offerings. Artificial intelligence (AI) will undoubtedly bring continued innovation. These trends, particularly given the increased PEO brand recognition, will continue to highlight the PEO value proposition and result in growth.

What do you think will be the biggest challenge for PEOs in the years ahead?
Continuing to adapt to an evolving regulatory landscape and to technology innovations, like AI, will be critical. These disruptors bring opportunity but also challenges. To continue its existing growth trajectory, the industry will need to be strategic in planning, decision-making and action. For example, if utilizing AI, it’s critical to build in appropriate privacy and cybersecurity safeguards and data governance processes.

Why did you want to join the NAPEO Board?
I have been very engaged in NAPEO at the committee level and as a Leadership Council Chair. I believe that serving on the Board is a natural extension of those engagement roles and view it as an additional opportunity for service to the industry. I am committed to using my expertise to support the NAPEO team, efforts to build industry awareness nationally and collaborative Board work on all topics.

What’s your advice to other members who want to become more involved in the association?
Dive in! Pick a committee that is of interest, join and become an active member. Become involved in NAPEO government affairs activities. Whether it is federal or state, at the committee or a working group level, there is a plethora of important work and you can make a difference. Consider going to your local Leadership Council Forum. Those smaller meetings offer a great opportunity to engage with colleagues and NAPEO staff.

Are you involved with any other professional organizations and/or community groups?
I am a member of the Florida Association of Professional Employer Organizations (FAPEO) Board of Directors, and ADP’s Women in Leadership. I am also involved in the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in honor of my late father who passed from the disease and am an active member of my church.

Can you share something non-work related to help members get to know you a little more?
I love the holidays, decorating for them and especially enjoy the opportunities they bring to spend time with my family in celebration. I am proud of my Irish heritage and St. Paddy’s is one of my favorite days of the year. If you spot me that day, I will be wearing green and a lot of flair! I adore my dog Maddi and we are often out and about in our dog-friendly town, Alexandria. We recently went to Dogtoberfest at a local brewery. I also enjoy live music and my interest spans many genres. I frequently take advantage of the many great venues that the DC area offers.

 

JULIE LONG
Chief Financial Officer
Tilson HR

How did you join the PEO industry and what were your first impressions?
I joined the PEO industry in 2014 as a Senior Staff Accountant. My first impression was how impactful the PEO model is for small and mid-sized businesses, providing them with the support they need to focus on growth while ensuring they remain compliant with regulations. Over time, my role evolved from accounting into managing broader operations, and I’m now the CFO of the company. In this position, I oversee not only the financial aspects but also play a key role in the overall strategy and efficiency of the business. I’ve come to deeply appreciate the value PEOs bring, and I’m proud to help businesses streamline their operations and succeed.

What continues to inspire you about the PEO industry today?
The challenges companies face in managing their workforce—especially with complex employment laws—are real, and I’m inspired by how we can alleviate those burdens, giving businesses the freedom to focus on what they do best.

How do you think the industry will evolve in the next decade or so?
I believe the PEO industry will evolve to become even more tech-driven, compliance-focused, and employee-centric, playing an even greater role in helping businesses manage complex HR and workforce challenges in an increasingly global and flexible work environment.

What do you think will be the biggest challenge for PEOs in the years ahead?
The biggest challenge for the PEO industry will be navigating an increasingly complex regulatory landscape, particularly in the context of remote work and global expansion, while ensuring cybersecurity and technological innovation to meet client needs. Adaptability and expertise in compliance will be key to overcoming these hurdles.

Why did you want to join the NAPEO Board?
I sought the opportunity to not only deepen my understanding of the industry but also to contribute to an organization with the potential to make a meaningful impact by serving others.

What’s your advice to other members who want to become more involved in the association?
My advice to other members who want to become more involved in the association is to start by taking small, intentional steps. Begin by attending events, webinars, or conferences to get a sense of the community and the opportunities available. Networking with other members and participating in discussions can help you build relationships and learn more about the industry’s challenges and trends.

Can you share something non-work related to help members get to know you a little more?
My favorite quote is by Eleanor Roosevelt: “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” I enjoy reading, walking, bike riding, grandchildren, traveling, and sun tanning by my pool.

 

CHAD PARODI
Managing Director, PEO and Insurance
Paychex

How did you join the PEO industry and what were your first impressions?
I joined the PEO industry in 1996 as a sales representative for Staff Leasing. I thought the service was highly beneficial to employers looking to reduce cost, offer better benefits and focus on their core competencies. At the same time, it was obvious that the industry was new and that individuals like me needed to spread the word one employer at a time.

What continues to inspire you about the PEO industry today?
The simple fact that as an industry we provide invaluable services and products to the fabric that holds this great country together, small and medium size businesses.

How do you think the industry will evolve in the next decade or so?
The industry will continue to find ways to solve some of the biggest challenges for businesses of all sizes. This includes new and cutting-edge health care options to ensure affordability, AI assisted technologies to help our clients attract and retain employees, and access to capital to fuel and grow the businesses we serve.

What do you think will be the biggest challenge for PEOs in the years ahead?
Diversifying the product set to drive differentiation and market share.

Why did you want to join the NAPEO Board?
My reason for joining the NAPEO board is simple, to give back and help advance this wonderful industry that has given so much to so many.

What’s your advice to other members who want to become more involved in the association?
Action is the beginning of all great things to come. Regardless of your level of involvement, get started and enjoy the journey.

Are you involved with any other professional organizations and/or community groups?
I currently help out with several small non-profit organizations and belong to numerous LinkedIn community groups.

Can you share something non-work related to help members get to know you a little more?
My favorite past time is listening to live music. I love how music unites people, provides a beautiful escape from reality and soothes the soul.

 

STEVE SCOTT
President and Chief Operating Officer
Engage PEO

How did you join the PEO industry and what were your first impressions?
I entered the PEO industry in 2003 after working with a Fortune 100 company, without fully grasping the complexities and wide range of services PEOs offer to small and medium-sized businesses. My initial impressions were filled with awe, excitement, and a sense of opportunity. The chance to influence not only the growth and success of businesses but also the well-being of their employees and families inspired me then—and continues to fuel my passion today.

What continues to inspire you about the PEO industry today?
I’m constantly inspired by the people I meet, both within our industry and among the clients we serve. It may seem simple to acknowledge the impact we have on our clients’ lives, but when you take a moment to reflect on the services we provide, and receive that heartfelt email or phone call from a client expressing their gratitude, it truly reinforces that what we do is making a difference.

How do you think the industry will evolve in the next decade or so?
Over the past 20 years, I’ve witnessed our industry significantly expand its presence in the small to mid-sized business sector, becoming more HR-focused, compliance-driven, and advancing our technology and reporting capabilities. While these areas will continue to evolve, there’s a growing need for us to accelerate in order to meet rising client expectations and adapt to the ever-changing workforce dynamics.

What do you think will be the biggest challenge for PEOs in the years ahead?
Our greatest challenge ahead will be our ability to remain agile and responsive in both the technology and regulatory landscapes. On the technology side, the rapid innovations in artificial intelligence, automation, and HR tools are astounding. Staying up-to-date with these advancements is crucial to delivering exceptional service, improving efficiency, and exceeding client expectations. Meanwhile, on the regulatory front, we’re navigating a continuous stream of changes in labor laws, tax regulations, and compliance issues at both the federal and state levels. It’s essential that we equip ourselves with the appropriate internal resources and systems to ensure compliance, offer timely guidance to our clients, and prepare for future regulatory shifts and new legislation.

Why did you want to join the NAPEO Board?
I am motivated to join the NAPEO Board because I wholeheartedly believe in the organization’s mission and its positive impact on our industry. This role offers me the opportunity to collaborate with dedicated professionals who share my commitment to strengthening our industry. I am eager to help drive initiatives that enhance member engagement, promote best practices, and tackle the challenges we face. With over 20 years of experience in the industry and a strong desire to give back, I am confident that I can bring valuable insights and perspectives to the Board. I am excited about the opportunity to influence meaningful change and contribute to the ongoing growth and success of NAPEO.

What’s your advice to other members who want to become more involved in the association?
There are several ways to become more involved in the association, and I encourage you to consider any or all of the following: 1. Attend NAPEO Events: Participating in association meetings, conferences, and workshops offers excellent opportunities to network, learn, and engage with fellow members. 2. Share Your Expertise: Consider presenting at events or writing articles for PEO Insider®. This will allow you to share your knowledge and enhance your visibility within the association. 3. Volunteer for Committees: Getting involved in committees is a fantastic way to contribute your skills to NAPEO while gaining deeper insights into the association’s operations.

Are you involved with any other professional organizations and/or community groups?
Yes, I am actively involved with several professional organizations and community groups. Being part of these networks enables me to collaborate with peers and contribute to initiatives that align with my personal and professional values. Additionally, my family and I engage with a few philanthropic organizations, as I believe in giving back and making a positive impact in our community. These experiences not only enrich my personal and professional journey but also allow me to connect with like-minded individuals who share my commitment to growth and service.

Can you share something non-work related to help members get to know you a little more?
On a personal note, having spent part of my life in Northern California, I am a die-hard fan of the San Francisco 49ers, Golden State Warriors, and San Francisco Giants. As a family, we divide our time between Florida and Colorado. We consider ourselves foodies, enjoy good wine, and love spending time with family and friends.