Honoring a Pioneer: Les Rosen Reflects on His Career and the Evolution of Background Screening
In a rare role reversal, episode 40 of Behind the Screens featured a deeply personal and insightful interview with the podcast’s usual host, Les Rosen — only this time, he was in the hot seat. Guest host Robert Capwell, a respected expert and leader in the industry himself, led the conversation, shining a light on Rosen’s storied background and pivotal role in shaping the background screening landscape.
Widely regarded as the “godfather of background screening,” Rosen’s path to prominence was anything but conventional. A UCLA graduate with a law degree from UC Davis, Rosen began his career as a deputy district attorney before moving into criminal defense, where he gained firsthand experience with the complexities of the justice system. These experiences laid the groundwork for what would become his “retirement career” — launching a background screening firm, Employment Screening Resources (ESR), in 1996.
From Courtroom to Compliance
The transition from defense attorney to background screening entrepreneur was driven in part by Rosen’s concern for public safety and a desire to improve hiring practices. A defining moment occurred when Rosen defended a woman with a violent criminal past who, shortly after release, was placed by a staffing agency to care for an elderly woman — a placement that nearly ended in tragedy. The incident sparked his realization that background screening, done right, was crucial for protecting vulnerable populations.
That realization became the foundation for ESR. Rosen leveraged his legal expertise to build a company rooted in compliance, accuracy, and ethical hiring practices. Over the years, ESR became a respected name in the industry, thanks in no small part to Rosen’s relentless pursuit of excellence and his deep understanding of the legal frameworks surrounding background checks.
Founding a Movement: PBSA and Industry Advocacy
One of Rosen’s most lasting legacies is his instrumental role in founding what is now known as the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA). What began as informal gatherings among like-minded professionals evolved into an organized effort to bring structure, accountability, and advocacy to the screening industry.
In the early 2000s, Rosen was appointed the first chair of the steering committee that established the association, then called NAPBS. Under his leadership, the group transitioned from an idea into a legal entity, launched its first elections, and hired professional staff. Rosen described this period as “punching through the list” — doing whatever was necessary to formalize the organization and build credibility within the industry and on Capitol Hill.
His leadership also extended to government advocacy. In those early days, Rosen and others met with members of Congress and the Federal Trade Commission to educate them about the industry, correcting the widespread misconception that background checks were simply “pulling from the FBI database.” These efforts laid the groundwork for the professional advocacy PBSA carries out today.
Innovation, Education, and Impact
Beyond association work, Rosen is perhaps best known for his contributions to industry education. In 2004, he authored The Safe Hiring Manual, often referred to as the “bible” of background screening. The comprehensive guide provided a structured, legal, and ethical framework for employers and screeners alike, helping to elevate industry standards.
He was also an early innovator in technology, building one of the first customized background screening systems using Microsoft Access, and launching new workflow tools for employment verifications. At one point, ESR even handled verification services for over 100 other firms — a testament to the company’s operational excellence.
Passion for People and Second Chances
Despite his legal and technological credentials, Rosen’s greatest passion may be his belief in the importance of second chances. Drawing on his years as a defense attorney, he emphasized that accurate, fair screening is not just about protecting employers — it’s also about ensuring individuals aren’t unfairly excluded from opportunities to rebuild their lives.
“Where the person really needs the second chance is before sentencing. Employment is often the most important factor in keeping someone out of prison.” – Les Rosen
His advocacy for fair chance hiring and individualized assessment remains a cornerstone of his legacy, and a call to action for others in the field.
Life Beyond the Screens
Outside of his professional work, Rosen is a man of varied interests — from scuba diving and hiking in the Sierra Nevada to performing close-up magic. He’s also an avid traveler, history buff, and baseball fan, with a goal of visiting every major league stadium.
Though technically retired, Rosen remains active as a writer, speaker, and podcast host. He continues to be a voice of wisdom and a champion of ethical hiring, urging new professionals to get involved, get educated, and give back.
As Rosen put it: “If you want to be outstanding or exceptional, you need to get involved in the industry and really make your mark. Contribute.”
His legacy, and the ongoing success of Behind the Screens, is proof of just how much one individual can shape an entire industry.
Beyond the Podcast: Meet Robert Capwell
Robert Capwell is a seasoned background screening expert witness with over 30 years of leadership in the industry. He’s the founder of Capwell Consulting Group, where he supports legal cases and investigations tied to hiring practices, HR compliance, and even medical device quality. Bob has been featured in top outlets like The Wall Street Journal and SHRM. He’s also a founding member and past chair of the PBSA, helping shape the global standards for background screening.
When Bob isn’t consulting, speaking at industry events, or guest-hosting a podcast, he’s living a full life in St. Augustine, Florida, enjoying the beach, kayaking, and even some occasional “surfing.”
Connect with Bob and his team here.
About Capwell Consulting Group
Capwell Consulting Group is a nationally recognized litigation support and risk mitigation consulting firm specializing in highly regulated industries. Our firm provides industry-leading guidance, research, reporting, and expert witness testimony for legal proceedings involving employment screening & negligent hiring, FCRA litigation, drug & alcohol testing, and medical device quality and regulatory compliance matters. With over three decades of industry experience, Capwell Consulting Group is a trusted advisor to employers, attorneys, and consumers around the globe.
The information published within is provided for education purposes only. The information is not intended to or constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials are published for general informational purposes only and not considered the views of a particular expert or consultant of Capwell Consulting Group, LLC. © 2025 http://www.capwellconsulting.com