Meet the Team

Melissa (Bowman) Dearth

Operations Manager

Melissa began her career with Express in 2012 as a Senior Staffing Consultant, specializing in Industrial and Professional Staffing. After three successful years in that role, she accepted an opportunity with a large corporation as an Executive Assistant, allowing her to broaden her administrative expertise and gain deeper insight into the corporate world.

She rejoined her Express family in January 2019. Now, as Operations Manager, Melissa oversees associate payroll, invoicing, national accounts, compliance, and provides operational support to the Owner—her sister, Erika Waehler.

Outside of work, Melissa enjoys spending time with her family and her black lab, Gonzo. She also loves reading, fishing, and being outdoors.

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Maia Colby

Senior Employment Specialist - Office Services & Professional

Maia joined the Express team in March 2024 as an Employment Specialist for Office Services. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Human Resources Management from the Driehaus College of Business at DePaul University in 2023.

Before joining Express, Maia gained valuable experience in administrative and HR support roles, where she assisted with staffing and recruitment efforts. She is passionate about helping candidates find the right opportunities and supporting clients with their hiring needs.

Outside of work, Maia enjoys spending time by Lake Michigan when the weather is nice, traveling the world, and being with family and friends.

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Izabela Rostkowski

Employment Specialist - Light Industrial

Izabela joined the team in March 2026, bringing a strong background in customer service and hospitality. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management at Western Governors University.

With experience as a hotel supervisor, Izabela thrives in people‑focused environments where she can build connections and create positive experiences. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, going on hikes, playing softball, and relaxing with her favorite comedies.

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Chrystos Mizis

Employment Specialist - Light Industrial and Skilled Trades

Chrystos joined the Express Employment Professionals of Libertyville team in August 2025. As a bilingual English and Spanish speaker, he is passionate about helping people reach their career goals and thrive in the workplace.

Before joining Express, he spent three years as a Storage Lead, where he trained and mentored team members in a fast‑paced warehouse environment.

Outside of work, Chrystos enjoys exploring the world of technology—whether he’s building software or taking apart electronics to better understand how they work.

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Helen Murphy

Employment Specialist - Light Industrial & Office Services

Helen joined the Express team in September 2026 as an Employment Specialist in both Industrial and Office Services. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Business Marketing with a minor in Theatre from Lake Forest College in May 2025.

Before joining Express, Helen gained valuable recruiting and marketing experience through working in the Admissions Office at Lake Forest College and by working with local businesses and non-profits to help strengthen their marketing efforts. Helen is deeply passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of others and empowering people to discover and pursue the opportunities that are best suited to them. She loves helping people uncover their passions, recognize their potential, and provide the support and guidance they need to connect them with meaningful opportunities that align with their goals and aspirations.

Outside of work, Helen enjoys doing anything performing arts-related, whether it be acting, singing, or dancing. She also loves cats and loves to hang out and have fun with her family!

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Samantha Layug

Samantha "Sammy" Layug

Front Office Coordinator

Bio coming soon!

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Suhani Sanchez

Marketing Coordinator

Suhani joined the Express Employment Professionals of Libertyville team in January 2026 as an Employment Specialist. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Marketing with a concentration in Digital Marketing and Promotions from the University of Illinois Chicago.

Since October 2026, Suhani has transitioned into a Marketing Coordinator role, where she is excited to continue developing her creative side while supporting Express Employment Professionals’ mission of helping people find meaningful work and helping businesses find quality talent. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with family and friends.

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