We had the good fortune of connecting with Brett Byers and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brett, what is the most important factor behind your success?
My authenticity sets me apart. While I’m driven and ambitious in business, my natural curiosity and love for connecting with people fuel my success. I’m a conversationalist at heart, always eager to ask questions and learn about others—their personal and professional journeys, their passions, and what motivates them. Since I work in the people business, building meaningful connections and uplifting others is key to what I do. It’s these genuine relationships that drive my success.

What habits do you feel helped you succeed?
As a founder and CEO with over 17 years of experience in executive recruiting, I remain committed to staying ahead of industry trends. From my early days as a talent acquisition student of the business to now, I view myself as a lifelong learner, always striving to lead with knowledge and innovation. Even as my business grows, I’m hands-on with my team, ensuring I understand the day-to-day operations. This approach builds trust and ensures I’m always aware of what’s happening at every level of the organization.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I am the Founder and CEO of The Byers Group, a California-based executive search firm specializing in nonprofit and public sector recruitment, with a strong focus on diversity. I began my journey in talent acquisition at UC Berkeley, where I championed Black student admissions, in the immediate post-209 era, sparking my passion for advocacy. My career in recruitment took off when I joined INROADS, working with underrepresented students to secure internships and full-time positions in Fortune 500 companies. From there, I transitioned to staffing for a major agency before pivoting into executive search, where I worked for a small Black-owned firm.

After gaining industry experience and practice, I founded The Byers Group in 2021 to create genuine connections and help organizations thrive and realize positive impact through diverse leadership. We prioritize authentic relationships and cultural competence, placing diverse, high-impact executives to drive transformational change in organizations and communities. Our firm partners with clients that align with our values of equity, community impact and are dedicated to serving the public good.

As a Black woman in an industry dominated by white men, I’m proud to lead a firm that champions diversity. We build trust with executives of color, offering them opportunities to excel in C-Suite roles and transform organizations. My entrepreneurial journey has taught me the importance of tapping into networks and thoroughly researching (check and verify!) before making decisions. By leading with authenticity, we’re creating a community of impactful leaders dedicated to driving change.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m a second-generation South Los Angeles native, who went to school on the westside and my city has evolved and changed so much over time! Woooo lol! There are so many culture-rich and unique areas and things to do in LA all the time.

1. The beach experience is a must. I suggest Venice Boardwalk, Santa Monica, or Manhattan Beach. All of them have nice restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels to pop in and enjoy. The Hotel Erwin at Venice Beach is nice to catch a sunset drink and eat on the rooftop after a good walk. I’m interested in checking out the newly renovated Georgian Hotel and its two restaurants. You could make a whole day out of a beach experience and even spend the night at one of the fabulous beach hotels. And while you are in Santa Monica, you must check out the Offhand Wine Bar for good wine, good vibes, and amazing food. They have rotating pop-up chefs on Thursdays to Sundays.

2. Get some dinner and catch some live music at the world-famous Forum, the Hollywood Bowl, the Greek Theatre, or for a more intimate setting like the Peppermint Club or Verse is a vibe too.

3. Spend a Saturday afternoon in South LA. Start by having a delicious and heartwarming Lavender Latte at the Hilltop Café, then go over to Leimert Park and check out the street vendors and retail stores. You can even catch an art/media exhibition at the Art + Practice on Degnan. Then head down Crenshaw Blvd to get a tasty hot dog at Earle’s Grille or some good rich classic New Orleans comfort food at Harold & Belles!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My parents, Ann Nelson-Byers and Donald Byers were both ambitious trailblazers, working in sales for IBM when it was rare for Black professionals to hold such roles in a cutting-edge global tech company. Despite facing racism and sexism, they thrived and became role models who instilled in me the values of education and excellence. Coming from entrepreneurial families—my mom’s parents owned businesses in LA, and my dad’s family ran farms in Crowley, LA—entrepreneurship runs in my blood. Thank you, Mommy & Daddy!

I’m also grateful for my mentor, Earl “Skip” Cooper, President Emeritus of the Black Business Association for his guidance and continuous support.

Website: https://www.byersgroupca.com

Instagram: miss_brettb

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-byers-72ba6b2/

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