Jessica Culo

Co-Owner & President

Entrepreneurialism is something that Jess has grown up with. Starting with her great-great grandfather, who as a German immigrant, came to Canada in the 1930's. He failed miserably at his first few trades related jobs, and found his passion in starting and growing retail operations, throughout the province of Alberta. His entrepreneurial spirit was passed down to Jessica's grandfather and then father who fashioned it into a series of manufacturing facilities and retail stores, including one that specialized in sportswear and outerwear- called Powder Ridge.

Jess' first job (she thinks was at the age of 8!) was 'sorting hangers' in one of her dad's stores, for the sales people. Those early lessons about hard work, long hours and helping others are still with her today as President and Owner of The Specialized Recruiting Group (Express Employment Professionals).

Graduating from the U of A with a psychology major and linguistics minor, Jessica felt her calling was to somehow be in business for herself, while still helping others. When her father, in 2004, identified Express Employment Professionals as a business venture that could provide Jessica with just this blend- the opportunity to build a company while helping other businesses and people - she jumped at it.

Jessica finds inspiration through her mentors, through her connections in the Express network as well as the business groups she belongs to, and the organizations she supports. Beyond that- it's the intangibles, such as spending time with her friends and family- sharing experiences- on the ski hill, outdoors or travelling, that are most important. Jessica enjoys staying active, with hobbies including running, tennis, and hiking. She has recently started to challenge her patience by picking up golf and yoga.

Favourite Quote:

"You can't stop the waves, but you can learn to surf." - Jon Kabat-Zinn

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Branko Culo

Co-Owner, VP Specialized Recruiting Group

Driven by his passion for sports, family loyalty and entrepreneurial spirit, Branko is a leader with an unorthodox approach. His quiet demeanour belies his take-charge attitude with a focus on results, propels Branko to take on new challenges.

Learning from his parents, Branko was taught valuable lessons about work ethic, loyalty and teamwork. Particularly from his father who escaped communist Yugoslavia by foot and came to Canada. 

Branko's first job was delivering flyers in the Edmonton Crestwood neighbourhood for five dollars. Prior to joining Express, he worked his way into a leadership role within the oil & gas industry- where he worked for nearly 15 years. Branko now leads Express' Senior Level Search Division, one that has grown exponentially in recent years.

Always a team player, Branko uses skills gained while playing high-level organized soccer and hockey to coach and mentor the other search and contract employees who make-up the accounting, finance and administration teams.

To relax, you will find Branko spending time with family, playing golf in the summer, men's hockey league in the winter and year-round his latest passion- cycling. 

Branko's inspiration to always improve comes from his father, who early on in life instilled this quality in him and would say: "A wise man learns from other's mistakes. A fool learns from his own". 

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Bre Renauld

Senior Manager

Originally from Ontario, Bre brings small-town values, a strong work ethic, and a people-first approach to everything she does. In 2012, she made the move to Alberta and has proudly called the Edmonton region home ever since.

As Senior Manager, Bre is passionate about leading and supporting her team’s growth while helping clients and associates find the right fit for long-term success. She is known for being driven, approachable, and compassionate, qualities that continue to shape both her leadership style and relationships within the community.

Outside of work, Bre enjoys travelling, spending time with her two dogs, and staying connected with family and friends across Canada. Whether exploring a new destination or supporting her team’s development, she values meaningful connections and creating positive experiences wherever she can.

Favorite quote:

What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” — Friedrich Nietzsche

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Stephanie Mandrusiak

Division Manager, Light Industrial

Stephanie Mandrusiak is the Division Manager of Light Industrial, bringing nearly five years of experience with Specialized Recruiting Group. She is passionate about making a meaningful impact, helping individuals secure employment during some of the most vulnerable times in their lives, and creating opportunities that lead to long-term stability and growth.

Driven by a people-first mindset, Stephanie believes there is nothing more important than connecting the right person to the right opportunity. She takes pride in finding that perfect fit, where candidates feel supported and empowered, and clients gain reliable, high-performing team members. It’s this balance that creates lasting partnerships and real business impact.

Before transitioning into staffing, Stephanie spent 15 years in the beauty industry, where she built a strong foundation in leadership, client relationships, and business operations. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Business, which shapes her ability to understand people, recognize potential, and deliver results with both empathy and strategy.

Stephanie is committed to building strong relationships, strengthening teams, and continuing to make a positive difference in every placement she supports.

Favourite Quote: 

"When we help ourselves we find moments of happiness. When we help others, we find lasting fulfillment."  -Simon Sinek

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Elma Kevac

Division Manager Office Services

Born in Germany to Bosnian parents, Elma brings an international sense of flair and a passion for travel, helping others, and the finer things in life. From her very first role in the hospitality industry to her current position, Elma has always been driven by a genuine desire to work hard for and alongside others. Recently becoming a mother to her handsome son, Eldin, she now especially enjoys spending her free time with family.

With a degree in Human Resources from NAIT, Elma plays an essential role in the growth and success of her clients’ businesses. By taking the time to understand each client’s business firsthand, she is able to apply her HR, negotiation, and recruiting expertise to find the right candidates for every opportunity. Elma prides herself on her enthusiastic personality, genuine curiosity, and empathy for others, qualities that complement her education and experience and contribute directly to her success.

Favorite Quote:

“The right people make all the difference.”

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Olga Andrushchak

Office Services Employment Specialist

Olga Andrushchak moved from Ukraine to Canada in September 2023. She has a background in IT recruitment and frequently interviews newcomers. She understands firsthand that being without a job can be scary and difficult. However, it brings her immense pleasure to help them secure new roles.

For Olga, recruiting is not just about helping others; it's about building connections, effective communication, and handling high-pressure situations and tight deadlines. She loves her job and everything about it. It allows her to expand her knowledge across various business areas, including sales, marketing, administration, HR, procurement, engineering, and project management.

In her free time, Olga enjoys hiking and rewatching her favorite comfort rom-com.

Favorite quote:

"Never back down, never what? Never give up."

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Emma Sedgwick

Senior Employment Specialist, Skilled Trades

Emma Sedgwick is a Senior Employment Specialist specializing in Skilled Trades recruitment and has been with the team since 2023. Known for her market knowledge, relationship-driven approach, and honest communication, Emma specializes in supporting companies with hard-to-fill positions within Alberta’s competitive Skilled Trades market. She takes pride in working closely with companies to understand not only the technical requirements of a role, but also the team culture and long-term goals behind every hire.

Prior to transitioning into recruitment, Emma spent 4 years working in logistics and transportation, along with 10 years in the hospitality industry, where she developed a strong foundation in communication, organization, customer service, and relationship management. Outside of work, Emma enjoys spending time with friends, relaxing with her golden retrievers, and unwinding with a good video game.

Favorite quote:

“The only impossible journey is the one you never begin”.

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Airika Klohn

Employment Specialist, Skilled Trades

Growing up in Leduc and the rural areas surrounding Devon, she has always been an outgoing and connection‑driven individual. After many years of dancing, she moved into competitive basketball throughout junior high and high school, an experience that strengthened her discipline, teamwork, and confidence in stepping beyond her comfort zone.

Following high school, she chose to gain hands‑on experience before pursuing post‑secondary studies, working in the service industry at Joey Restaurants and later in an administrative role within the trucking sector. Through these roles, she discovered a passion for building relationships and supporting others in meaningful ways, ultimately guiding her toward her current career path.

Outside of work, she enjoys travelling, spending time with family and friends, and being with her puppies. She also loves painting, skiing, bonfires, and relaxing at the lake, always seeking opportunities to create memories, explore new experiences, and enjoy the moments that matter most.

Favorite quote:

"Knowledge opens doors, but relationships create opportunities"

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Aliya Parmar

Jr. Business Development Manager

Aliya’s story is rooted in resilience and integrity. Growing up in a small town, she was inspired by her single mother, who built and ran her own real estate company while raising two spirited daughters. Watching her mom go above and beyond for clients, helping families find homes beyond their dreams with honesty, transparency, hard work, and genuine care, instilled in Aliya the same values that guide her today.

With a background in social work, Aliya brings eight years of experience in geriatrics through a non-profit organization, as well as in the school system, where she taught mental health education. Her work has always centered on people, compassion, and connection. Aliya describes herself as genuine, observant, witty, determined, and caring, qualities that shine through in both her professional approach and the meaningful relationships she builds.

Favorite Quote:

"It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of fight in the dog" - Mark Twain

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Emma Klinger

Jr. Business Development Manager

Emma’s story began in a small town just outside Edmonton, where she was inspired by a family whose careers were rooted in helping others and delivering exceptional service. Watching her parents lead by example shaped her into the honest, transparent, and resilient hard worker she is today—someone dedicated to supporting both businesses and individuals.With a background in hospitality, Emma brings over 10 years of experience focused on building meaningful connections with people. She describes herself as authentic, attentive, quick-thinking, driven, and compassionate—traits that come through in her work and the strong relationships she builds. 

Favorite Quote:

“Accept the challenges so you can feel the exhilaration of victory.” — George S. Patton 

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Danielle Keleman

Payroll Specialist

Danielle Keleman, known as Dani, is a skilled Payroll Specialist with a wealth of experience rooted in her diverse background in transportation, construction, and management. Born and raised in Edmonton, Dani has honed her expertise in handling the intricate details of payroll, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in every aspect of the process. Her ability to manage complex systems and deliver precise results has made her an invaluable asset to our team.

With a proven track record of getting things right the first time, Dani brings a proactive and solutions-driven approach to her role. She is known for her attention to detail and her capability to handle the demands of payroll with ease. Dani’s experience across multiple industries provides her with a unique perspective, enabling her to tackle the complexities of payroll in fast-paced environments.

Outside of her professional role, Dani’s vibrant personality shines through. Whether she’s spending time with her husband and their beloved cat, hiking the scenic trails of Alberta, or whipping up something delicious in the kitchen, she brings the same energy and attention to detail to everything she does. An avid crafter, Dani enjoys painting, crochet, and cross-stitch, and has a unique collection of Funko Pop toys, taxidermy, and vintage teacups.

Favorite quote:

“Intelligence without ambition is a bird with no wings” - Salvador Dali

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Elena Schneider

Payroll and A/R Specialist

Elena graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Commerce in Strategic Management and Organization with Distinction, along with a Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. Passionate about leadership, community, and personal growth, she continues to stay actively involved in the Edmonton Croatian community through volunteering and teaching folklore dance.

A true sun lover at heart, Elena enjoys spending her weekends exploring the city with her fiancé by car, bike, or on foot. She especially loves downtown Edmonton for its energy, atmosphere, and vibrant local culture. Whether through work, community involvement, or everyday adventures, she is always eager to connect, learn, and experience something new.

Favorite Quote:

"Always under promise and over deliver"

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Khrystyna Shipka

Marketing Specialist

Khrystyna recently graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing, along with a Certificate in International Learning. Passionate about leadership, community involvement, and cultural connection, she stayed actively involved throughout her university experience through organizations such as the Ukrainian Students’ Society and the University of Alberta Marketing Association. Through these roles, she developed strong skills in event planning, marketing, sponsorship outreach, and community engagement.

With a creative mindset and a passion for taking on responsibility, Khrystyna enjoys bringing new ideas to life and creating meaningful experiences that connect people and communities. Originally from Ukraine, she values opportunities to celebrate culture, build relationships, and stay involved within the Edmonton community.

In her free time, she enjoys exploring the city, attending local events, trying new coffee shops and restaurants, and spending time with friends and family. Whether through work, volunteering, or everyday experiences, she is always eager to learn, grow, and make a positive impact.

Favorite quote:

“The best way to grow is to keep saying yes to new challenges.”

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Mary Terrado

Front Office Coordinator

I am a dedicated Front Office Coordinator at Express Employment Professionals/SRG, bringing over 15 years of experience in customer service and team leadership across the hospitality, airline, and travel industries. This diverse background has strengthened my communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills, enabling me to effectively support both clients and internal teams.

In my current role, I play a key part in creating a welcoming and professional front-office experience. I manage day-to-day administrative tasks, handle client inquiries with efficiency, and ensure seamless coordination across the office.

Originally from the Philippines, I embrace a growth mindset and am naturally driven to take on new challenges. To further develop my skills and expand my opportunities in Canada, I pursued additional education at NorQuest College, graduated Business Management in 2025. This step reflects my strong commitment to continuous learning, personal growth, and building a meaningful career in a new environment.

I also value maintaining a healthy work-life balance. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, baking, and hosting gatherings for friends and family, bringing the same warmth and care from my professional life into my personal connections.

Favorite quote:

“Success is a milestone, not the finish line, never stop learning”

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