Meet our team

Charles Matthews
I originally established Matthews Professional Employment, Inc. in 1969 following several years as a sales and marketing representative for a steel company out of Chicago. It was as an employee that I realized the direct correlation between a business’ overall success and a quality support staff. One of the smartest decisions of my life was to start my firm in Lake County, IL. After becoming one of the most successful employment agencies in the United States, I was elected the president of the national trade association. Throughout the years, it has been a privilege to assist generations of applicants in finding rewarding careers with hundreds of employers in the Chicagoland area. I am honored, personally and professionally, to be an ongoing member of the local community. Please take a moment to get to know our highly skilled team of consultants and administrators by reading their profiles below.
Thank you for your patronage!

Shah Washington
I joined the Matthews Professional Employment, Inc. team in 2011 after a career within the industrial manufacturing, finance, and fitness fields. The industry insights I previously acquired have provided me with an astute ability to relate and understand the essential aspects of various businesses. As a results-driven Certified Search Consultant, I am a reliable resource for clients who are looking for the best available employees. To date, I have successfully assisted hundreds of candidates in finding opportunities within great companies. My ongoing mission is to increase employee retention rates for clients and to help candidates find a career, not just a job. I am dedicated to your needs.
Shah is both an ASA (American Staffing Association) Certified Search Consultant and a Certified Staffing Professional.

Tom Matthews
I am an honorable, dedicated, results-driven individual who strives for the best possible outcome for both clients and candidates. I graduated from the Virginia Military Institute with a B.A. in History, a Minor in Spanish, and a Concentration in Military History. Before joining Matthews Professional Employment, Inc. in 2015, I served as a Lieutenant in the United States Coast Guard where I led a specialized force in South and Central America. My goal now is to serve clients and candidates with the best, most forthright and beneficial relationship that I am able.
Rah Virginia Mil!
Tom is a National Association of Personnel Services (NAPS) Certified Personnel Consultant.

Michelle Arroyo
As a previous Junior Accountant, I have some experience in the professional industry. In April of 2017, I graduated from Robert Morris University with a double major in Business Administration and Accounting. In January 2018 I joined Matthews Professional Employment as the Accounting Administrator, and I can help you with any accounting questions or concerns you may have. My long-term goal is to gain as much experience and continue my career in the accounting industry, eventually becoming a Certified Public Accountant. I am open to learning as much as I can in order to provide you the best possible service, so please do not hesitate to contact me!

Mark Failauga
Born and raised in the beautiful and culturally diverse state of Hawaii, I learned the importance of putting God first, respecting people and their cultures, appreciating nature, and living with an attitude of gratitude.
I proudly served my state and country for 12 years in the finest Hawaii Army National Guard, including one combat deployment to Southeast Asia and one peacekeeping deployment to the Middle East. Out of uniform, I have had the privilege of working side by side with hardworking individuals in construction, telecommunications, distribution, and administration.
I have always been inspired by youth leaders, speakers, and mentors who boldly and selflessly devote their lives to encouraging others and helping them overcome limiting beliefs and circumstances. As a client and candidate “matchmaker,” I now have the opportunity to positively influence people as they make one of the most important decisions of their lives: choosing the right career opportunity.
When I am not in the office glued to my computer screen or desk phone, I am usually at home wrestling with my three little warriors or planning for their future with my loving wife.
“We are the Picassos of the boulevard. We are the working man’s work of art.” – Kita S. Lealao
Mark is a NAPS (National Association of Personnel Services) Certified Personnel Consultant.

Miranda King
Miranda joined Matthews Professional Employment, Inc. in 2014 as the Accounting Coordinator. After joining the team, she quickly learned the ins and outs of both staffing and accounting. In 2017 she was presented with an employee appreciation award for her years of hard work and dedication. That same year, she was promoted to her new role as the Marketing Consultant with the goal of growing and developing the company’s brand as well as social awareness. Since then, she has continued her commitment to help cultivate and build brand awareness with new marketing strategies, custom campaigns, and graphic design work.

Samantha Martinez
Samantha came to us looking for “something new” and her great positive attitude combined with a determination to succeed caused her stand out from the crowd. We brought her onboard as our Front Desk Receptionist where she began learning the ins and outs of reception and general office admin. She did such a fantastic job that she was elevated and is now the Recruiting Coordinator many of you have had the pleasure of speaking with.
I joined Matthews Professional Employment in late 2017 as the Front Desk Receptionist. Prior to this I worked in retail for three years where I gained my customer service experience. I’ve played soccer my entire life and still do today. These experiences have helped me grow in a professional setting where I am now able to build opportunity and take positive action every day. I strive to attend to clients and candidates in the best way possible every single day.

Yesy Garcia
I joined Matthews Professional Employment in late 2023 as a Personnel Consultant. Coming from a background in insurance and financial services, I believe financial stability is one of the strongest foundations a person can have – and that it often begins with the work we do every day.
My goal is to help candidates find more than just a job. I want to help them find a career that can create positive change in their lives and in the lives of their families. At the same time, I enjoy helping our clients grow their businesses by connecting them with the right people.
Throughout my career, I have always been drawn to positions where I can help others. Making a positive difference in people’s lives is one of my most important goals, and I look forward to helping both candidates and clients achieve their objectives.
Yesy is an ASA (American Staffing Association) Certified Personnel Consultant.

In Memory of Cristina Sanchez
We were extremely blessed when Cristina decided to join our team in 2013. She brought a vibrant zest for life and enthusiasm to all she did, to say nothing of the deep connections she formed with everyone she met. As a consultant, she was determined to be the best advocate for clients and candidates that was humanly possible, and always wore her infectious smile. As a friend, she was selfless and exceptional. On May 1st, 2017 her battle with cancer ended. She is loved, missed and warmly remembered.








