With a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience in the recruitment industry, Jake is poised to steer the company towards new horizons. Learn about his distinct perspectives, approach to leadership, and the personal passions that influenced his professional career path.
Two decades of leadership in global recruitment and talent solutions
Jake Zabkowicz’s 20-year career has been driven by a commitment to positively influence his colleagues and clients alike. His journey through operations and technology sparked a passion for recruitment, which he carried to Cielo and then Korn Ferry, where he architected dynamic business and RPO solutions and built leading diverse recruiting teams that have made a global impact in healthcare, life sciences, technology and other sectors.
How did you get started in the industry?
Out of college, I started at Epic Systems and led EMR implementations before joining WageWorks to manage tech-enabled benefits services. A pivotal call from a veteran’s spouse highlighting the positive impacts recruiting can have on the lives of others steered me towards a career in the industry.
What led you to recruitment?
Being new to the industry, I followed a friend’s recommendation to apply to Pinstripe (now Cielo). I have always been interested in solution design, technology and the world of recruiting, so it was a natural fit for me. My boss at Pinstripe was phenomenal. She taught me so much about the business.
I was later introduced to Korn Ferry, where I spent a decade designing their RPO program and broadening their international reach. My role involved managing an extensive portfolio of RPO partnerships with teams from 10 up to 200 members, alongside driving the expansion of our life sciences business.
How did you come to join Hudson RPO?
Hudson RPO always stood out to me, even when I was navigating the competitive waters at Korn Ferry and Pinstripe/Cielo. There was this one instance where a Korn Ferry client staunchly refused to shift a portion of their business away from Hudson RPO, a clear testament to their commitment and satisfaction. Despite us managing most of their hiring, that remaining 10% was non-negotiable. I had never seen anything like that before in my career up until that point.
The more I learned about Hudson RPO’s team, vision, and culture, the more I understood what Hudson RPO brings to the table. Korn Ferry and Cielo command tremendous clout in the industry, yet Hudson RPO possesses the team and culture essential to becoming a truly predominant RPO player.
What are your goals for Hudson RPO?
My priority is to scale our RPO services and to win more global accounts. Hudson RPO has an exceptional team and the right attributes to accomplish this.
My role involves bringing the best out of each and every team member to accelerate Hudson RPO’s growth, both organically and through strategic acquisitions that align with our culture and enhance our market position. Organic growth will be the priority. I love acquisitions, but they require a careful weighing of numerous factors, including strategic fit, culture, and cost.
What inspires you in your work?
Working with great people – working with great clients and working on a great cause. If you have those three in the mix, anything is possible. My goal is to pave the way for our teams, remove obstacles, and create an environment where they can pursue their passions, innovate, and continue to grow without restraint.
How would you describe your leadership style?
I value authenticity and integrity, understanding the power of ‘yes’ and the necessity of ‘no.’ I’m committed to fostering choice and chances. For me, success is a collective effort, where every voice is part of a harmonious chorus. I invest in top talent; I’m convinced that the strength of a team is each individual, and the strength of each individual is the team.
Did any particular client or project solidify your passion for recruiting?
A talent leader in the pharmaceutical space. She was a visionary. One of those people who talks about saving lives, and how talent acquisition saves lives. That solidified it for me. That’s the most incredible aspect of what we do.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I’m really hands-on when it comes to my kids’ activities. They’re 10 and 12, and right now sports is their world, with soccer (or European Football, as some would say) dominating our weekends.
When I’m not cheering them on from the sidelines, you’ll find me enjoying the peace and regeneration of the great outdoors. Whether it’s hiking, fishing, hunting, or just relaxing by a fire, that’s where I recharge my batteries and find my balance. And when I do get some downtime, I love indulging in my foodie passions – from exploring the world of wines and whiskeys to discussing the latest craft beer trends. It’s all about finding those moments of joy and relaxation amidst a busy life.
