The Power of Purpose and People with Stephen Dwyer, Incoming CEO of American Staffing Association

The Power of Purpose and People with Stephen Dwyer

In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Dwyer, Incoming CEO (January 2026) of the American Staffing Association (ASA), to explore the intersection of purpose, leadership, and the future of work. From his early ambitions of becoming a lawyer to leading one of the most influential organizations in the staffing industry, Stephen shares the pivotal moments that shaped his journey—and the values that guide his leadership today.

We unpack the evolution of the staffing sector, how ASA is addressing today’s workforce challenges, and why people-centered leadership is not just a philosophy but a necessity. If you’re passionate about shaping workplaces where people thrive, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

Episode Highlights

[0:51] – Stephen’s unconventional path from law to leadership [3:20] – Lessons from two decades at the American Staffing Association [6:45] – Navigating workforce disruption and embracing innovation [10:12] – The human side of staffing: why people matter most [14:05] – Stephen’s vision for the future of work and leadership [18:40] – Advice for leaders navigating change in today’s world

🔗 Links & Resources

• American Staffing Association: americanstaffing.net

• Connect with Stephen Dwyer on LinkedIn: Stephen Dwyer

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Stephen Dwyer is a leading authority on the legal and public policy aspects of staffing. He engages in and coordinates the association’s legal and public affairs activities and advises the staffing industry on labor and employment law and policy issues. He has testified before legislatures and regulatory bodies regarding, and written extensively and spoken widely on, the staffing industry.

Before joining ASA, he was associated with the New York multinational law firm Chadbourne & Parke, as well as De Forest & Duer, a 100-year-old Wall Street firm. Dwyer is a member of the New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Virginia, and District of Columbia bar associations.

https://americanstaffing.net/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-dwyer-aa1116/