1976-2026. Celebrating the 50 Year Legacy of Alan J. Blair Personnel

This year marks an extraordinary milestone for Alan J. Blair Personnel: 50 years in business. Reaching a half-century is no small achievement for any company, particularly in an industry that has evolved as rapidly as recruiting and staffing. Since 1976, the tools, technology, and industries may have changed dramatically, but the purpose and ethos behind what we do have remained constant. The way we recruit may change, but what we do never will.

Founded in 1976 by Anne J. Bridges (AJB), Alan J. Blair Personnel was built on a clear and enduring philosophy. Recruiting was never intended to be transactional or impersonal. From the very beginning, the firm focused on building long-term relationships, judgment, and trust, particularly in the placement of Executive Assistants and administrative professionals. These roles sit at the center of a company, requiring organization, discretion, adaptability, and a deep understanding of leadership dynamics. That belief shaped the firm's reputation and continues to define our work today.

When I joined Alan J. Blair Personnel 26 years ago, under the helm of then-owner (the legendary) Mary Alexander, the firm had already established a 25-year reputation for providing the highest level of quality in everything it does. From the white-glove quality service to clients and the highest-quality candidates, it has cemented its reputation as a trusted partner to all.

Of course, HOW recruiting was done at that time was very different. Resumes were faxed or mailed. Interviews were conducted face-to-face (something I still prefer to do), and references were transcribed by hand on triplicate notepads. Tests on spelling and grammar were given on actual clipboards and on paper in the office. Timesheets were handwritten and faxed in by our temporary staff, and payroll was calculated by hand. Yet even then, it was clear that the firm's success was not tied to process alone, but to the care and thought behind every placement.

Over the decades, recruiting has been transformed by technology. Digital platforms, A.I. applicant tracking systems, and remote work have reshaped how talent is identified and evaluated. Expectations have accelerated on all sides. Alan J. Blair Personnel has embraced these changes, continuously refining how we recruit and serve while ensuring the quality of our work remains unchanged. Adaptation while upholding our high standards has been essential to longevity.

What has never changed is our commitment to the human side of recruiting.  Each placement requires an understanding of personalities, work styles, organizational culture, and long-term goals. These are personality nuances that algorithms alone cannot capture. They require experience, discernment, and a genuine investment in the future success of all involved.

While celebrating the 50 Year Legacy of Alan J. Blair Personnel, I reflect with pride on the relationships that have sustained this firm. Many of our clients have partnered with us for decades. Many candidates we placed early in their careers have grown into leadership roles and returned to us for guidance and support for their own companies. That continuity speaks to the trust built over time and the consistency of our values.

For me personally, being part of Alan J. Blair Personnel for more than half of its history is both humbling and energizing. Stewarding a firm with this legacy carries responsibility. It means honoring the principles on which it was founded while ensuring it remains relevant, responsive, and strong for the future.

Fifty years in business is not simply a measure of time. It is a reflection of purpose, resilience, and relationships. The way we recruit may change, but what we do never will. We connect people to meaningful work. We assist our clients in building strong foundations and invested teams. We act as trusted advisors at moments that matter.

As we mark this anniversary, I want to thank YOU! I am grateful to everyone who has been part of the Alan J. Blair Personnel story over the past five decades. The clients, recruiters, and applicants who have walked through our doors have some of the most interesting and inspiring careers and stories. The methods will continue to evolve, but the mission of excellence remains unchanged.

That is the legacy we celebrate today and the future we are continuously excited to build with you.