Office Hours: 8am to 5pm M-F
NEXTAFF of Gulf Coast, MS helps business leaders reduce profit-draining tasks—especially those related to hiring, payroll, and compliance. Many companies struggle to recruit quality employees or maximize productivity, and we provide strategic workforce solutions to solve those challenges and keep businesses competitive.
Our services include full-service hiring, temporary and contract staffing, executive search, HR consulting, assessments, and background checks. With over a decade of HR and operations experience, we understand staffing and workflow needs across industries like IT, engineering, accounting, administrative, and technical roles.
We proudly serve South Mississippi and South Alabama, from Hancock County, MS to Baldwin County, AL, and stay active in our community through organizations like United MSD Foundation, Ocean Springs Rotary, SHRM, the American Staffing Association, and the MS Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce.
In 2007, Amber saw a need in the human resource industry for business support services and workforce in the Gulf Coast region. With a strong desire for helping businesses succeed with strategic talent management, she opened the doors of NEXTAFF Gulf Coast. Amber’s prior experience in customer service, investments & finance, and upper-level management for Keystone Capital Management established a foundation for fulfilling business needs and establishing relationships for future business growth.
A passion for improving business operations drives Amber’s involvement in various community programs. She currently holds several leadership positions with area nonprofits and professional organizations, including President of the Ocean Springs Rotary Club, Past President of the Gulf Coast Human Resource Association, Gulf Coast Chamber Board Member, Past Small Business Chair for Biloxi Chamber board member and founder of Women Entrepreneurs Gulf Coast (now a program of the MS Gulf Coast Chamber) and past president of the Singing River Charter Chapter American Business Women’s Organization. Amber is also a dedicated supporter of local nonprofits including advocacy for domestic violence. She currently serves on the Advisory Board for the Gulf Coast Women’s Center for Non-Violence – Jackson County location.
Amber is a graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast and the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program.
Amber holds a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Montana and is Certified as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), certified by Human Resource Certification Institute and Senior Certified Professional in Human Resources (SHRM-SCP), certified by the Society for Human Resource Management.
Makenzie Kelley joined our team in June 2024, bringing a strong background in sales, leadership, and customer engagement. Before stepping into the world of staffing, she worked as a Sales Representative, Recruiter, District Manager, and Sales Manager with Vector Marketing, and also gained experience in social media management and sales at another organization.
Currently pursuing a degree in Psychology, Makenzie combines her understanding of people with her passion for connecting the right talent to the right opportunities. She finds fulfillment in helping individuals take their next step in life and supporting companies in building strong, capable teams.
Outside of work, Makenzie enjoys relaxing with a good TV show and spending time with her three pets—Pebbles (her loyal pup), Rox, and Boulder (her two adventurous cats).
Makenzie Kelley joined our team in June 2024, bringing a strong background in sales, leadership, and customer engagement. Before stepping into the world of staffing, she worked as a Sales Representative, Recruiter, District Manager, and Sales Manager with Vector Marketing, and also gained experience in social media management and sales at another organization.
Currently pursuing a degree in Psychology, Makenzie combines her understanding of people with her passion for connecting the right talent to the right opportunities. She finds fulfillment in helping individuals take their next step in life and supporting companies in building strong, capable teams.
Outside of work, Makenzie enjoys relaxing with a good TV show and spending time with her three pets—Pebbles (her loyal pup), Rox, and Boulder (her two adventurous cats).
It’s safe to assume that most business leaders have ambitious goals for 2026: revenue growth, market expansion, and operational efficiency. But here’s a critical question: Does your workforce strategy align with your business strategy? Too often, companies treat workforce planning as an administrative task. They hire reactively, manage talent in
New Year, New You: 5 Ways to Take Control of Your Career in 2026 The ball has dropped, the resolutions are made, and 2026 is officially here! While many of us are focused on personal growth, what about your professional life? This new year is the perfect time to stop
The 2025 landscape tested commercial employers in every way imaginable. Manufacturing plants, distribution centers, and logistics operations have all had to balance fluctuating demand, supply chain challenges, and a competitive hiring environment. As the year winds down, there’s no better time to reflect on the wins, pinpoint what needs improvement,
Hiring the right talent can make or break an organization, especially when looking at fields like administrative support, healthcare services, or information technology. A meticulously planned hiring process provides the framework for bringing in high-caliber individuals who will propel business goals forward. At the same time, overlooking red flags or
Why Staffing Agency Compliance Safeguards Your Bottom Line When it comes to running a successful business, partnering with the right staffing agency can make all the difference. But it’s not just about filling positions quickly; compliance with labor regulations, safety standards, and industry requirements is crucial. By prioritizing compliance every
The latest data shows the U.S. labor market is easing. According to Indeed, job postings on their platform are down about 7% from last year, and hiring for junior and entry-level roles has slowed the most. But make no mistake – this isn’t a hiring freeze. It’s a recalibration. Layoffs
In today’s fast-paced markets, operational leaders face a stark choice: scramble for last-minute workers when demand spikes, or watch deadlines slip and costs soar. A modern staffing agency can provide an agile reservoir of temporary staffing talent—yet the real magic happens when you blend those on-demand resources with a stable
You’ve watched your temporary You find yourself in a situation where your temporary team diminishes just when their presence is crucial. As each temporary associate departs, the need to urgently fill positions arises. This perpetual cycle of recruitment, onboarding, and loss of talent seems unending. However, envision the possibility of
Imagine your busiest season is looming, yet you’re still guessing how many temporary employees you’ll need for your seasonal temporary staffing. Last-minute scrambles leave you overstaffed one week and desperately understaffed the next. That uncertainty costs you—up to 30 percent more on your labor budget—while your team scrambles to meet
Today’s manufacturing and distribution hiring challenges can leave your operation struggling during seasonal peaks or sudden order surges. A mixed labor force (combining full-time, part-time, and temporary staffing) gives you the flexibility to scale up or down without the long-term costs of adding permanent headcount.Here are some ways you can
Why Cohort-Based Onboarding Works Implementing a cohort-based approach can transform how new hires integrate into your operation. First, onboarding in groups builds peer support, giving employees a shared learning experience. Then, because everyone receives the same standardized training, ramp-up time shortens, so you hit productivity targets faster. Finally, consistent instruction
Are You Hiring for 2025 — or Are You Stuck In The Past? If your job descriptions still talk about “fast-paced environments” and “competitive compensation,” you may be missing the mark. The labor market in 2025 is more candidate-driven than ever — and job seekers are setting the terms. Gone
If your warehouse feels like a revolving door lately, you’re not alone. Hiring teams across the country are dealing with a labor pool that disappears almost as fast as it arrives. The issue isn’t just that workers leave — it’s that they leave early, often within their first 30 to
Hands-on experience and practical training are becoming the new standard in hiring A growing number of people are rethinking the value of a traditional four-year degree. Between rising tuition and uncertain job outcomes, it is not surprising that many are looking at other options. Skilled trade careers are rising fast
How productivity drops, compliance risks, and cost surges are tightening the screws on staffing strategies Hiring has never been a simple process, but current conditions are turning it into a moving target. Budgets tighten. Timelines shorten. Departments that once had breathing room now find themselves buried in cost-control measures. Managing
How communication, preparation, and perspective lead to confidence for effective staffing decisions Finding the right person for a role has never been simple, but it’s easier when the decision doesn’t rest entirely on one person’s shoulders. When the hiring process includes open communication and collaboration across the team, it builds
Electric vehicles, defense contracts, and slowdowns in traditional manufacturing are shaping job demand across the region. Here’s what that means for skilled workers in Kansas. A $9 million Navy contract, a $4 billion battery plant, and more than a year of slow activity in traditional manufacturing, Kansas is seeing a
Job cuts, fewer listings, and rising stress are quietly changing how people search for stability in their careers It is not just layoffs making headlines. Job boards that used to be flooded with listings in reliable sectors are now thinning out, making people wonder about security in their careers. Roles
Why production demand alone isn’t enough to rebuild the talent pipeline The numbers don’t lie. Millions of dollars are being poured into revitalizing U.S. manufacturing, yet employers are still struggling to fill roles. The problem isn’t just availability—it’s placement, preparation, and the pressure to staff quality employees fast. Manufacturing hiring
By Kiara Moseby, Healthcare Staffing Leader at Nextaff – Sacramento HC The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released a report revealing something we in the healthcare staffing industry already know too well, while the global nursing workforce is growing, critical inequities in staffing distribution continue to put healthcare systems at
A stable economy doesn’t mean standing still. It means hiring with precision while others hesitate Hiring conditions no longer feel uncertain. Signals from different parts of the economy point to steady movement. Recent tariff changes between the United States and China, job gains in food service, and comments from the
NEXTAFF Expands Its National Footprint with the Launch of a Northern Virginia Office Led by Experienced Staffing Professional FAIRFAX, VA – NEXTAFF, a leading provider of high-quality staffing solutions, is proud to announce the opening of its newest healthcare staffing agency in Northern Virginia, further strengthening the company’s growing
Applying to more jobs isn’t the smart answer for your search, and what to do instead if you want to get hired faster Some people are still using the same resume they wrote five years ago and wondering why nobody’s calling them back. Others keep applying to every job they
As employment labor costs rise and productivity slips, companies are rethinking how much they can afford to hire, how fast, and at what risk with the new impact. A Tighter Margin for Every Employee Hired Hiring has always involved trade-offs, but rising costs are adding weight to every decision.
Despite calm job reports, manufacturers and workforce planners face rising pressure from tightening skilled labor pipelines. Hiring plans don’t happen in a vacuum—they respond to supply, demand, and policy. As factory orders surge and federal agencies tighten operations, one theme remains consistent: the labor market isn’t volatile, but it’s
Across the job market, one idea has taken root: hiring for stability. Employers across different industries are rethinking what it means to build strong teams, and the effects are rippling out across warehouses, offices, and even nontraditional workplaces. For many people looking for their next opportunity, it is no longer
Local healthcare teams are facing deeper staffing gaps, heavier caseloads, and new employment uncertainties. Walk through Land Park or the medical corridors near Curtis Park, and it’s easy to feel the pulse of a healthcare system working overtime. Staffing shortages in these neighborhoods aren’t isolated problems. They are ongoing hurdles
As companies focus on building lasting teams, reliable job openings across Johnson County are offering real paths to career growth. Reliable job openings are making a real difference for workers across Johnson County. Employers are shifting their focus toward lasting hires, valuing steady growth and dependability more than staff quick
There are roles waiting to be filled, wages rising, and yet many companies still can’t find the people to show up. The phrase talent access captures more than just a hiring issue—it reflects the growing divide between where jobs are created and where people can afford to live, train, and
Community-run event in Overland Park helps power national fundraising milestone for the Cure MSD Foundation, uniting sponsors, families, and volunteers through NEXTAFF’s Xtra Mile initiative. OVERLAND PARK, Kan., April 24, 2025 (Newswire.com) – The power of people coming together was on full display at the recent Xtra Mile Zebra Run,
Burnout is climbing, budgets are shrinking, and skilled professionals are walking out the door. It’s not just a trend—it’s becoming a pattern. Employee retention is facing strain across every industry. Many want to stay, but the systems meant to support them are stretched thin or vanishing altogether. Whether it’s government
“Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think,” said Albert Einstein. That line still hits home, especially as the job market continues to value what people can do, rather than how long they sat in a classroom. Hence, the emphasis we are beginning
“When people are financially invested, they want a return. When people are emotionally invested, they want to contribute.” – Simon Sinek. That distinction has never been more relevant than it is inside the walls of a business. Every brand wants people who are both types of investors—those who show up
Seasoned Staffing Professional Takes Over Commercial and Healthcare Agencies PHOENIX, April 10, 2025 (Newswire.com) – NEXTAFF, a leading provider of staffing solutions, has announced a change in ownership of multiple staffing agencies in Phoenix, Arizona. The offices, previously owned by John Snellings, have been acquired by staffing industry veteran Matt
Employee retention strategies have become more important than ever as businesses strive to maintain a stable and productive workforce. To keep employees engaged and committed, companies must take a closer look at the factors leading to increased turnover. Deskless Employees Are Leaving—Here’s Why Deskless workers make up a large
Staying ahead in today’s job market means continually building skills that align with evolving industry demands. Skill development isn’t just about landing a new role—it’s about growing within your current position and preparing for future opportunities. As industries change and adapt, those who prioritize ongoing learning are better equipped to
Hiring decisions are rarely just about filling a role. Pay expectations now influence everything from offer acceptance to long-term retention. As internal equity and external competition collide, compensation has become one of the most visible forces in workforce planning. Wage growth isn’t a background detail—it’s a driving factor that shapes
Healthcare facilities in Sacramento are adjusting how they approach compensation. New reporting rules and federal guidance are changing how employers track wages and manage hiring policies. Pay equity now plays a more visible role in staffing decisions, especially in fast-paced environments. Numbers Behind the New Pay Normal The California
Change often brings friction, especially when it directly affects how people work, apply, and get hired. From job growth in certain industries to new concerns about compliance and fair hiring, more adjustments are showing up across the employment space. Workplace policy changes continue to influence decisions from the break room
Hiring policies are changing fast, and companies that don’t stay ahead risk compliance issues and losing top talent. Federal agencies are increasing oversight on diversity policies, outdated staffing methods are proving ineffective, and the demand for skills-based hiring is growing. These hiring policy updates aren’t just minor tweaks—they’re shaping the
“Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” – John F. Kennedy. The job market moves constantly, influenced by economic conditions, industry growth, and policy updates. Recent data points to noticeable adjustments in hiring across different
“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Steve Jobs’ words highlight an ongoing challenge for businesses—keeping employees engaged and committed. As workers increasingly prioritize flexibility and job satisfaction, companies must rethink their approach to retention. The concept of employee loyalty has shifted, with professionals
“Change before you have to.” These words from Jack Welch, former CEO of General Electric, reflect the reality businesses face as job cuts reshape hiring plans. With layoffs reaching their highest monthly total since mid-2020, employers are making difficult decisions. As hiring managers assess the situation, they must also consider
“The resume focuses on what you did, not what you can do.” – Laszlo Bock, former Google HR executive. For decades, resumes have been the standard for job applications. But with automation, skill-based hiring, and AI-driven screening, traditional resumes might be losing their effectiveness and need an alternative. Some companies
“Hiring is the most important people function you have, and most of us aren’t as good at it as we think.” – Netflix CEO Reed Hastings. Finding and keeping employees has never been simple, but recent workforce data suggests new challenges are emerging for employers. As jobless claims rise beyond
OVERLAND PARK, Kan., February 27, 2025 (Newswire.com) – NEXTAFF is strengthening its commitment to giving back with the launch of Xtra Mile Community Outreach. While the company has always prioritized charitable giving, donating 10% of franchise fees to charity since its inception, this new initiative will focus on hands-on service
“America’s workforce is facing an unprecedented challenge,” notes the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, as industries across the nation struggle to fill open positions. Businesses in Sacramento, including areas near Land Park, are experiencing the effects of a labor shortage firsthand. With healthcare, hospitality, and logistics industries facing hiring challenges, employers
“America’s workforce is facing an unprecedented challenge,” notes the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, as industries across the nation struggle to fill open positions. Businesses in Overland Park, Olathe, Lenexa, and the greater Kansas City metro are seeing the effects of a labor shortage firsthand. With healthcare, hospitality, and logistics industries
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou’s words ring true in many aspects of life, but they hold particular weight in hiring. Candidate experience plays a direct role in whether someone accepts an
“The best way to predict the future of work is to create it.” – Peter Drucker. As companies reevaluate workforce strategies, job seekers and employees are facing shifting expectations. The push for a return-to-office structure is influencing hiring trends, workplace policies, and job demand. While some employers advocate for in-person
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Shane’s journey with Nextaff began in 2019, when he established a successful franchise in the Kansas City metro area. His experience as a Nextaff franchise owner provides prospective buyers with a completely transparent view of the Nextaff Franchise Opportunity. Prior to his time at Nextaff, Shane led large sales teams in the Financial Services and Medical Device industries, further developing his expertise in leadership and business management.
Basketball! I was fortunate enough to play college basketball all 4 years and in 2013 we won the NCAA DII National Championship.
Getting to know prospective franchise buyers. I love hearing about their goals and dreams they want to achieve through entrepreneurship.
Orange! Yes, it is one of Nextaff’s main colors but it was my favorite before coming to Nextaff. In the franchising world, I’m known as “Orange pants guy”.
When it comes to operating a staffing firm, Cary has worn every hat. From recruiting, to sales, to management, to ownership, he has been involved in every aspect of running a successful staffing business. He has successfully led three separate companies to the Inc. 500 and Inc. 5000 lists, which puts him in an elite class of staffing entrepreneurship. Combining that experience with a strong passion for entrepreneurs makes Cary an ideal leader for driving the Nextaff vision.
Loyal, Driven, Creative
Do what you said you were going to do.
Back in the day, it was John Cusak. “I want my two dollars!”
