Meet the J. Morrissey Team

James D. Morrissey is an owner and a Co-Founder of  J. Morrissey & Company. His Executive Search, Contract Staffing and Consulting experience spans a period of over thirty years. He is nationally recognized as both a Certified Personnel Consultant (CPC) and a Certified Temporary Staffing Specialist (CTS), having successfully satisfied all testing and experience requirements necessary for these national certifications.

James is a past Chairman of the Board of Directors for the National Association of Personnel Services, Inc. (NAPS) and has also served the Board as Secretary/Treasurer and District Director. He is a past member of the Executive Committee and has Chaired the Leadership Committee, the Finance & Audit Committee and Co-Chaired the Certification Committee. He is also a past Vice President for the Connecticut Association of Personnel Services.

He currently sits on the Board of Trustees of The Bushnell Performing Arts Center and Chaired their Human Resources Committee for fourteen years.

Prior to his career in the personnel services industry, James served as an Audit Manager for the international public accounting firm, Coopers and Lybrand. James is a Certified Public Accountant in the State of Connecticut and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accounts. Jim earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the State University of New York at Albany.

Barbara A. Morrissey is an Owner and Co-Founder of J. Morrissey & Company.  Since the company's founding in 1986, Barbara was primarily responsible for charting the growth of the Staffing Services Division of J. Morrissey & Company from its initial beginnings in accounting temporary services to a full-service temporary staffing group.  Over the years her role expanded to include managing the growth of many company services.

Prior to her career in personnel, Barbara was the Accounting Manager at Updike, Kelly & Spellacy, P.C., in Hartford.  Previously, she was Assistant to the Controller for Smith Kline Instruments, Inc., of South Windsor a division of Smith Kline/Beckman.

Barbara attended College at the State University of New York at Geneseo.  She is a Certified Personnel Consultant (CPC), a Certified Temporary Staffing Specialist (CTS) and a member of the National Association of Personnel Services.  Barbara is a past President of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Staffing Association and a member of the Human Resources Association of Central Connecticut.

Erik's story begins in the picturesque town of Glastonbury, Connecticut, where he spent his formative years immersed in a world of sports, diligent summer work, and the pursuit of knowledge. Born and raised in this vibrant community, Erik developed a strong work ethic and a passion for baseball and soccer that would shape his character and career.

Erik's academic journey led him to Bryant University, where he pursued his fascination with numbers and finance, graduating in 2010 with a Bachelor's degree in Accounting. During his college years, he ventured beyond the familiar streets of Glastonbury to experience the unique beauty of Block Island, where he worked tirelessly during his summers.

Post-graduation, Erik embarked on a professional journey with CohnReznick, a renowned public accounting firm. Here, he honed his expertise in the world of finance and accounting while also earning his Master's degree in Accounting and achieving the prestigious CPA license. Erik's tenure at CohnReznick exposed him to a diverse range of industries, from manufacturing and healthcare to professional services, higher education, and non-profit organizations. As the lead auditor on various engagements, he delved into different management styles and organizational structures, enriching his ability to comprehend the unique needs and aspirations of his clients.

Erik's personal life took shape in South Glastonbury, where he now resides with his beloved wife, Jen, and their two young children, Grady and Maggie. This nurturing environment provided him with the support and inspiration needed to excel in both his professional and personal pursuits.

In 2014, Erik embarked on a new chapter by joining J. Morrissey, a dynamic organization specializing in Temporary Staffing Services, Direct Hire Placement, and Retained Search. His journey with the company has been nothing short of remarkable, as he has seamlessly transitioned through various roles, culminating in his current position as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. In this influential role, Erik is entrusted with shaping the strategic vision, overseeing financial operations, and managing the broader business operations of J. Morrissey and its affiliate, Culpeo HR.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Erik's life is punctuated with remarkable personal achievements. He had the privilege of attending the FIFA World Cup in South Africa, a testament to his love for sports and adventure. Additionally, he achieved the rare feat of scoring a hole-in-one while playing golf in the enchanting landscapes of Ireland, a testament to his dedication and skill.

Erik's journey from the charming streets of Glastonbury to the bustling corridors of business leadership is a testament to his unwavering dedication, passion for excellence, and ability to turn dreams into reality. With a loving family by his side and a dynamic career ahead, Erik's story continues to inspire those who cross his path.

Erik J. Heller has over 20 years of experience in the Recruiting and Staffing industry and has been with J.Morrissey since 1994 holding various roles with increasing responsibility. He is nationally recognized as a Certified Personnel Consultant and Certified Temporary Specialist.

As the Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President, Erik is responsible for the operations of all J.Morrissey offices (Windsor CT, Shelton CT, Springfield MA) as well as running a successful Healthcare Practice. He has experience placing Healthcare professionals into a variety of environments including: hospitals, managed care organizations, physician practices, management service organizations, home care agencies, and long term care facilities. In addition, Erik has a comprehensive understanding of Healthcare Reimbursement, the Revenue Cycle, Case Management and Managed Care.

Erik is a founding member and Chairman of the American Staffing Association’s Connecticut Regional Council, formerly known as the Connecticut Staffing Association, and is a Past President of the Connecticut Association of Personnel Services.  He served on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee from 1999 to 2012 holding various roles such as Treasurer, 1^st and 2^nd Vice President Chairs. Other association’s Erik has involvement in: the National Association of Personnel Services, American Staffing Association’s Healthcare Section, Quinnipiac University Alumni Association, the Connecticut Medical Group Management Association, the Connecticut Case Management Society, and is a former Board member for the SummerWind Performing Arts Center.

Erik attended Quinnipiac College where he received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management with a concentration in Human Resources.

Krisha's journey in the professional world has been nothing short of remarkable. Starting her career after completing her college education, she ventured into the realms of Commercial Art and Marketing, honing her creative and strategic skills. However, her path took a significant turn as she discovered her calling in the field of Recruitment.

Growing up in a close-knit, caring family where everyone played a vital role in supporting each other, including the care of elderly parents, Krisha's deep-rooted passion for healthcare began to flourish. She redirected her focus towards assisting job seekers in finding meaningful careers in healthcare that could make a genuine difference in the lives of others.

With an impressive 31-year career in the Staffing Industry, Krisha's expertise spans various domains. Initially, she dedicated herself to agency firm work, with a primary focus on healthcare and marketing communications. Her journey took a pivotal turn in 2004 when she joined J Morrissey. Here, she embraced Direct Hire Healthcare recruitment as her specialization.

In 2010, Krisha's entrepreneurial spirit led her to create the Information Technology division within the organization. Her dedication and exceptional performance in this role earned her the prestigious title of Vice President. She continues to pursue her passion for recruiting top-tier talent and nurturing new client relationships. Krisha also takes an active role in training and mentoring new staff, instilling in them the best practices and the art of meaningful interviewing.

Krisha's Direct Hire Recruitment Specialties encompass both Healthcare, spanning clinical and non-clinical roles, and Information Technology, from junior-level positions to the highest echelons of C-Suite leadership.

Outside of her illustrious career, Krisha finds solace and inspiration in the world of watercolor painting. Her creative spirit knows no bounds.

In her personal life, Krisha shares a blissful marriage of 36 years, a testament to her commitment and enduring love. Together with her loving partner, she is proud to be the parent of two wonderful children, completing her fulfilling life journey.

Ally Wachtel is an Assistant Director with our Healthcare Staffing Services group, and she has been with J. Morrissey since 2013. Ally focuses on temporary and temporary-to-hire positions. Some of the positions she recruits for are RN’s, LPN’s, Nurse Case Managers, Medical Assistants, Medical Coders, Medical Billers, Insurance Follow Up, Medical Secretaries, Medical Records, Patient Registration, Charge Entry, Payment Posting, Claims, Customer Service, and any other position, either clinical or non-clinical, in a healthcare or healthcare insurance environment. 

Prior to joining J. Morrissey, Ally worked for over 20 years in the financial industry as a Life Insurance Underwriter holding an Assistant Vice President title. While there, she was responsible for a number of initiatives including various recruiting efforts across her department.

Melissa is based in our West Springfield location and has been with J. Morrissey for over 8 years. With 18 years in the industry, including career services and counseling experience, Melissa is a specialist in both Healthcare and Office Services - working with large and small companies in the Western Mass area.

Melissa started her career as a Certified Medical Assistant, which provided her with valuable insights into the Healthcare Industry, helping to form strong connections with clients and candidates. Prior to joining J. Morrissey, Melissa was the Director of Career Services at Premier Education Group, where she performed various career development functions and achieved company benchmark placement rates.
Melissa has 3 beautiful Golden Retrievers, Callah, Cooper and Miracle. She enjoys spending time at the beach, cruising and watching amazing sunsets whenever she can.

Colin Paterson's journey from Central Connecticut State University to the world of recruiting is a testament to his determination to follow in his father's footsteps in the business world. With a strong competitive spirit cultivated through years of playing sports and a natural talent for building relationships, Colin seamlessly transitioned into the staffing industry.

With over 12 years of experience spanning diverse industries, including accounting/finance, administrative support, manufacturing/engineering/supply chain, and human resources, Colin has honed his expertise in connecting the right talent with the right opportunities.

In March 2017, Colin embarked on his career with J. Morrissey, and his dedication and strategic thinking quickly propelled him to the role of Vice President of Accounting/Finance and Administrative Support Group. In this capacity, he continues to make a significant impact, shaping the future of the company.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Colin is an avid traveler with a passion for exploring new places and cultures. While he may have come to terms with the fact that his aspirations of becoming a professional golfer will remain a hobby, his commitment to excellence and continuous growth remain unwavering.

Colin Paterson's story is a testament to the power of determination, competitive spirit, and building strong relationships to succeed in the business world.

Chris Gamber is a driven professional and a 2020 graduate of Hartwick College. During his college years, he showcased his dedication and teamwork as a proud member of the Men's Lacrosse Team, instilling a strong sense of discipline and commitment.

Today, Chris stands at the forefront of J. Morrissey, where he has spent the last four years honing his expertise in Direct Hire and Contract IT placement. His focus extends to Mid-Career to Executive Level IT Professionals across a wide array of industries, including Infrastructure, Data Science, Software Development, IT Security, VCISO, Managed Services, Network Engineering, Management/Executive Level, and Business Intelligence.

When he's not immersed in the world of IT recruitment, Chris enjoys precious moments with his fiancé, sharing their time between their family's vacation homes in the picturesque locales of Rhode Island and Maine. These coastal getaways offer the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories, especially during the tranquil Summer and vibrant Fall seasons.

Beyond his professional pursuits and scenic escapes, Chris embraces his love for leisure activities. He finds solace and excitement on the golf course, patiently casting his line while fishing, and unwinding at the picturesque Charlestown Beach in Rhode Island. These moments of relaxation add balance to his dynamic life.

With a passion for career success, a penchant for coastal living, and an appreciation for the simple joys of life, Chris Gamber embodies a well-rounded individual who thrives in both his personal and professional endeavors.

Jennifer Morrissey manages all of the marketing efforts for J. Morrissey & Company. She primarily focuses on maintaining and optimizing our website, managing our social media efforts, as well planning and executing the overall marketing strategy for J. Morrissey.  

Prior to joining the J. Morrissey team, Jennifer gained several years of experience working as a digital strategist and account executive in a marketing agency environment.  While there, she was responsible for building and maintaining client relationships, digital strategy and content creation for a variety of small and large businesses. Jennifer received her Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Arizona State University. 

Sue, a lifelong resident of Connecticut, has always found her roots deeply entrenched in the Nutmeg State. Alongside her loving husband, she continues to call this charming New England haven her home. Their family is a source of immense pride for Sue, boasting two accomplished children who have carved out remarkable careers of their own.

Her son, a true Connecticut patriot, serves as a Director of Regulatory Affairs at a prominent local company while simultaneously holding the esteemed rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Army National Guard. On the other hand, Sue's daughter has chosen the path of a School Adjustment Counselor, dedicating herself to nurturing the well-being of young minds.

When she's not nurturing her family or pursuing her professional endeavors, Sue indulges in two of her greatest passions—gardening and cinema. Her garden blooms with the vibrant colors of her dedication, while her love for the silver screen transports her to different worlds with every movie.

Sue's journey through the professional landscape has been equally diverse. She has donned multiple hats over the years, from serving as an Office Manager at a national food chain's distribution center to leading as a Manager at a Portrait Studio, and even ascending to the role of Branch Manager at a Federal Credit Union. Throughout these roles, Sue honed her expertise in sales, branch operations, business planning, budget management, and the recruitment and training of staff. Her unwavering commitment to excellent customer service and her unwavering work ethic have been the pillars of her success.

In 2015, Sue found her professional home with the J. Morrissey team, starting as a Customer Service Coordinator. Her dedication and competence quickly earned her recognition, leading to her promotion to Office Manager in 2018. As Office Manager, Sue shoulders a range of crucial responsibilities, including employment verifications, the meticulous processing of temporary associates' time cards, wage verifications, compliance oversight, process improvement initiatives, and managing intricate contract agreements, among an array of other essential office duties.

Beyond her professional pursuits and hobbies, Sue has a fervor for travel. She has explored 19 different states and ventured through the charming landscapes of six European countries. Photography is another avenue through which she channels her love for discovery, with scenic pictures of her journeys serving as her creative canvas.

Sue's life is a tapestry woven with family, work, adventure, and artistry. Her journey continues to evolve, and her dedication to excellence remains as steadfast as her roots in Connecticut

Marcia's journey through life has taken her from the picturesque landscapes of Minnesota to the charming streets of Connecticut, with a unique blend of skills, experiences, and quirks that make her a remarkable individual.

Born and raised in Minnesota, Marcia laid the foundation for her professional journey by earning a degree in Interior Design and Sales. Her knack for creativity and eye for aesthetics would prove to be invaluable assets in her future endeavors.

The most cherished chapter of Marcia's life was undoubtedly her role as a devoted mother. Blessed with two wonderful daughters, she had the privilege of staying home with them for many years, nurturing and guiding them through their formative years.

In 2011, Marcia embarked on a new adventure as she relocated to Connecticut with her husband and two daughters. Returning to the workforce, she initially embraced the role of an Administrative Assistant at a private school, skillfully juggling the demands of work and family life.

However, fate had more in store for Marcia. In 2018, she discovered her true calling when she joined J. Morrissey & Company. Her transition to the company marked a significant turning point in her career. Prior to joining J. Morrissey, she had already accumulated valuable administrative and customer service experience as an Office Manager at a Business Valuation firm, as well as an Administrative Assistant at the local private school her daughters attended.

Marcia's professional journey has been characterized by her approachable personality, unwavering attention to detail, and an unyielding work ethic. These qualities have made her an integral member of the J. Morrissey team, where she serves as an Administrative Assistant with the Windsor office.

Within this role, Marcia deftly handles a multitude of responsibilities that keep the office running smoothly. From formatting resumes to processing temporary associate time cards, managing contract agreements, handling employment verifications, and providing a warm welcome to visitors and callers, Marcia's contributions are indispensable.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Marcia's uniqueness extends to her personal life. Remarkably, she is left-handed, a trait she shares with four out of five family members, making them quite the left-handed clan. Additionally, Marcia embraces her creative side as a side hustle photographer, capturing life's beautiful moments through her lens. And like any true aficionado, she has an undying love for coffee, fueling her busy days with that perfect cup of brew.

In summary, Marcia is more than just a bio; she's a story of resilience, adaptability, and a testament to the power of combining personal passions with professional excellence. Her journey continues to unfold, and the chapters yet to be written promise to be just as intriguing as the ones that have come before.

Jake Anderson, the eldest of four siblings, hails from the charming town of Glastonbury, Connecticut, where he grew up in a bustling household of six, accompanied by two lively Boston Terriers. His journey through life has been marked by a combination of academic excellence, work ethic, and a deep passion for sports.

In 2021, Jake proudly earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business-Human Resources, with a minor in Psychology, from Marist College in Poughkeepsie, New York. His dedication to academics was complemented by his commitment to hard work, as he spent summers during high school and college laboring at a local golf course, honing his skills and building valuable life experiences.

Jake's career took off in September 2021 when he embarked on a professional journey within the office support group. Here, he specializes in filling both temporary and permanent roles across a diverse range of fields, including administration, clerical work, human resources, accounting, and manufacturing. His innate ability to connect with people and find the perfect fit for each position has made him an invaluable asset in the world of staffing and recruitment.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Jake's heart beats for the Boston Red Sox, a testament to his unwavering loyalty to his team. He's not just a fan; he's a true "die-hard" Red Sox enthusiast who follows their every game and passionately supports them through thick and thin.

Jake's love for adventure and cultural exploration led him to study abroad in the enchanting city of Florence, Italy, for a semester. This experience broadened his horizons, allowing him to immerse himself in a rich tapestry of art, history, and cuisine.

Jake Anderson's story is one of dedication, academic achievement, and a deep-rooted passion for life's diverse experiences. As he continues to carve his path in the world of business and human resources, there's no doubt that his journey will be marked by success and unwavering enthusiasm for the pursuits that ignite his soul.

Conor Pepin, a native of Windsor Locks, CT, currently calls West Hartford, CT, home. A proud alumnus of the University of Connecticut, Conor embarked on his professional journey in the dynamic realm of Baseball Operations with the Red Sox. However, his career took a turn into the staffing industry, where he has thrived ever since.

With over 6 years of valuable experience in staffing, Conor has contributed his expertise to diverse sectors, including healthcare, admin/clerical, and IT. In his latest role at J. Morrissey, Conor is dedicated to fortifying the contract IT segment of the business, extending support to clients across various industries in the CT/MA markets.

Beyond the professional sphere, Conor finds joy in spending time with his dog, Roscoe, during peaceful walks. An avid golfer, he embraces the challenges and rewards of the game. As the youngest among his three siblings, Conor brings a fresh perspective and unwavering enthusiasm to both his personal and professional pursuits.

Tara Guglietta is a dedicated professional who has called Connecticut home for over a decade. She's a proud wife and a loving mother of three wonderful children. Tara's journey into the world of business and human resources began with a solid educational foundation.

Tara is a proud alumna of SUNY Brockport, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, with a minor in Mathematics. Her passion for business and analytics drove her academic pursuits, setting the stage for a successful career.

Upon graduation, Tara embarked on a fulfilling career in Human Resources and Recruiting, a field she's been committed to ever since. She has a wealth of experience in this domain, honing her skills and expertise with each passing year.

Since 2018, Tara has been an invaluable member of the J. Morrissey team, specializing in Healthcare Services. Her dedication and professionalism have made a significant impact on the company and the clients she serves.

Outside of her professional life, Tara's interests are diverse. She is a Certified Zumba Instructor and shares her passion for dance fitness by teaching two classes a week. Her commitment to staying active and promoting a healthy lifestyle shines through her Zumba instruction.

Interestingly, Tara's educational journey initially took her down a different path. She originally pursued a degree in Meteorology, demonstrating her curiosity about the natural world and the forces that govern it. While her career took a different turn, her love for learning and exploring new horizons remains a defining trait.

Tara Guglietta's story is one of dedication, versatility, and a lifelong commitment to personal and professional growth.

Abby Rood is a Recruiting Coordinator with our Healthcare Staffing Services Group. Abby primarily focuses on on-boarding candidates who have been hired for Temporary and Temporary to Hire assignments and placements within Healthcare positions, both Clinical and Non-Clinical, within the Provider and Payer Communities as well as Profit and Non-Profit environments.

Prior to joining J. Morrissey, Abby worked at a Multi- Site Orthopedic Physician Practice, where she developed skills in customer service and administrative duties. She is extremely excited to be joining our group where she can connect with people, continue to learn and grow, and further her Healthcare Administrative experience.

In Abby's spare time, she is the Head of the J. Morrissey fun Committee. 

Madilyn Lawson brings 2 years of invaluable recruiting experience to the world of staffing, coupled with a passionate intrigue for the intricate world of compliance. Her journey began as a Staffing Manager at J. Morrissey, where her talent for identifying and nurturing talent first blossomed. Over time, she gracefully transitioned into the role of Recruiting Coordinator within our esteemed Healthcare Staffing Services Group.

Madilyn's professional focus revolves around the crucial task of onboarding candidates, paving the way for successful placements in both Temporary and Temporary-to-Hire assignments. She specializes in Healthcare positions, encompassing both Clinical and Non-Clinical roles, within the Provider and Payer Communities, spanning across Profit and Non-Profit environments.

Beyond her thriving career, Madilyn's heart belongs to her four-legged companion, Luna, a loyal Labrador/Retriever mix who brings boundless joy to her life. Madilyn is also an ardent sports enthusiast, shaped by her childhood passion for soccer and softball. She continues to embrace her love for the game whenever she can, embodying the same dedication and teamwork that she brings to her professional endeavors.

Madilyn's commitment to excellence, paired with her compassionate spirit and love for all things furry and athletic, makes her a standout professional and an all-around remarkable individual.

Hilary comes to J. Morrissey with 7 years of recruiting experience in Temporary Placement and Direct Hire Placement. 

Hilary is well versed in a wide range of industries from her time running a full desk, in addition to, managing on-boarding processes. Her focus will be recruiting, account management and client development in the Office Support Group space.

Hilary is a Staffing Manager working out of the Southern CT Office. 

Abby comes to J. Morrissey with an impressive recruitment background. After successfully launching a satellite branch as the only local employee for an east coast staffing company, she is looking for her next challenge.  Abby brings a competitive nature to the J. Morrissey team and will be leading the charge on temporary staffing, running a full desk as part of our Fairfield team.

Abby was a D1 track and field athlete at Xavier University and represented her team at the Big East Conference. She graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree of Business Administration majoring in Marketing. She is originally from Chicago coming to Connecticut as her forever home. 

Tom Killam, a native of Suffield, Connecticut, was raised in a close-knit family of five. He shares his journey through life with a twin sister, an older brother, and two cherished canine companions.

In 2023, Tom achieved a significant milestone in his educational journey by graduating from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Business. His dedication to academic excellence paved the way for his career path.

In August 2023, Tom embarked on a professional adventure, joining J. Morrissey, where he plays a vital role in the Office Support Group. With a passion for connecting talent with opportunities, he is committed to making a meaningful impact in the world of recruiting.

Outside of work and academics, Tom finds solace and joy spending his summers on the serene shores of Sebago Lake in Maine. The natural beauty and tranquility of the lake offer the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Among his many interests, Tom has a deep love for the game of golf. Whether it's hitting the links with friends or honing his skills on the course, he embraces the challenges and camaraderie that golf offers.

Tom Killam is a dedicated professional, a lover of nature, and a passionate golfer, all of which contribute to the multi-faceted person he is today.

John Pinone is an accomplished executive recruiter specializing in accounting and finance. With a career spanning several years, John has honed his expertise in conducting full-cycle C-level executive searches, overseeing every aspect from search design to strategic consulting services customized to meet the unique needs of his clients.

Having built a stellar reputation, John boasts a proven track record of spearheading successful projects and introducing innovative business solutions to organizations across North America.

John's career journey includes a stint as a branch manager at Pascoe Workforce Solutions, where he gained valuable experience in talent acquisition and management.

Currently, he serves as an Executive Recruiter in the Accounting & Finance division at J. Morrissey, where he continues to excel in identifying top talent for key positions.

Beyond his professional achievements, John has an interesting personal background. He spent part of his childhood living in Spain, which provided him with a global perspective and a rich cultural experience.

In addition to his career accomplishments, John is a former Division I football player at Bryant University, demonstrating his commitment to teamwork and dedication to excellence.