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Dan Shoemaker did not start in background screening. He began his career in politics and public policy, working on campaigns, serving in Virginia state government, and lobbying at the federal level.

After 9/11, an unexpected opportunity led him into the screening industry. What he thought would be a short detour became a long and distinguished career.

Along the way, Dan:

• Earned his MBA while working full time and raising young children
• Led business units with hundreds of employees
• Built and integrated global screening operations across Europe and Asia
• Served as Chair of PBSA during the launch of accreditation
• Became CEO during a period of acquisitions and rapid growth
• Now serves as Chief Revenue Officer at Accurate
  
  

His journey is proof that careers are rarely linear. They are built by taking risks, saying yes to opportunity, and staying open to change.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why taking calculated risks is essential for long-term career growth
• How to build a leadership path from inside your organization
• What it really takes to scale screening operations globally
• The cultural differences in international business development
• Why mentorship accelerates professional success
• How PBSA helped shape the modern screening industry
• Why background screening offers exposure to the world’s most influential companies
• The importance of staying adaptable in a rapidly evolving industry

This Episode Is For You If:

• You want to move into leadership within the screening industry
• You are considering international expansion or global partnerships
• You are early in your career and unsure how to chart your next move
• You believe in mentorship and long-term professional growth
• You want to understand how industry leaders think about risk and opportunity
• You are involved with PBSA or considering deeper engagement
  
  

Outside of screening, Dan is a lifelong drummer who plays in a 90s and 2000s cover band. He is also an avid surfer and a self-proclaimed train enthusiast, carrying forward a childhood passion inspired by his father.

Leadership, for Dan, is not just about titles. It is about curiosity, balance, and continuing to grow in every season of life.

If you are building your career, considering your next move, or simply reflecting on where this industry is headed, this episode will challenge and inspire you.

Listen now to Episode 60 of Behind the Screens.

Connect with US:

• Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/
• Subscribe to our podcast- https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2400707.rss
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200

This podcast is sponsored by:
The Preemploymentdirectory, publisher of the Background Buzz! https://preemploymentdirectory.com/