Meet the Team

Kim Phillips Nakatani

Owner

Born and raised in Santa Cruz, I ventured into the staffing industry as a Cabrillo College student in search of flexible work. My journey began as a receptionist at Express Employment Professionals, where I quickly fell in love with the company's dynamic environment. The fast pace, the opportunity to assist a diverse range of people, the meaningful work, and the many vibrant personalities I encountered made every day a joy.

Over the years, I completed numerous classes and training courses, advanced through several positions within the company. Today, I am the proud owner of this unique and lively office. With over 30 years of experience at Express Employment Professionals, I bring a wealth of staffing knowledge to the table.

I value honesty, positivity, continuous learning, and creative thinking. Building strong relationships is at the heart of what I do. My expertise spans leadership, office management, recruiting, payroll, customer service, sales, and small business ownership.

When I'm not busy at work, you'll find me enjoying time with my family and friends, engaging in art projects, reading, exercising, listening to music, exploring the local woods, and finding humor in almost every situation. Let's connect and make great things happen together!

Email Kim

Christina Ayala

Senior Staffing Specialist

With 18 years at Express, Christina brings unmatched experience and heart to everything she does. From her early days as our receptionist, to her current role specializing in placing skilled office services and professional people with companies throughout Santa Cruz County, Christina has worn many hats - and she's worn them well. Raised in Watsonville and having spent much of her time in Santa Cruz, she knows our community inside and out. 

When she's not connecting great people with great local jobs, you'll find her hiking coastal trails, lifting heavy weights, tending to her plants, creating floral arrangements, diving into a good book, or enjoing coffee and indie music with friends and family. 

Email Christina

Estela Montes - Junior Staffing Coordinator - Light Industrial

Born and raised in Watsonville, Estela brings heart, hustle, and hometown pride to her role at Express. Since joining our team three years ago as our Front Office Coordinator, she's grown into her current role as our Jr Light Industrial Staffing Coordinator. Fully bilingual in English and Spanish, Estela is passionate about helping people find the right job fit. 

Outside of the office, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, getting creative, and hanging out with her pup, Peanut.

Email Estela

Office Assistants, Ruby, Liz and Aaralyn

Ruby, Elizabeth and Aaralyn are our amazing trio of part-time office assistants. All three are proud locals and current students, bringing energy, organization, and genuine passion for helping to our office every day. Whether supporting our team behind the scenes, or greeting visitors with a smile, they're always eager to learn and assist. 

We're lucky to have them on board!

Email Our Office Assistant