Meet Josh Glantz: RiseKit’s New CEO

We are thrilled to introduce Josh Glantz, the new CEO of RiseKit. With a passion for innovation and a dedication to creating opportunities for all sides of our employment marketplace, Josh Glantz brings a fresh perspective and leadership to our team. In this exclusive interview, we delve into his personal journey, professional insights, and his exciting vision for the future of RiseKit. 

Read on to learn more about the man behind the role and what drives his commitment to making a positive impact through RiseKit.

1. Can you tell us a bit about your background and how it has shaped who you are today?

   • I am the youngest of five kids. Growing up, my family lived in a Bronx apartment, where I shared a bedroom with my two brothers, including one who is ten years older than me, although he probably wasn’t thrilled about it! My mother was a high school teacher for over 30 years at a school that was ranked as the most dangerous in New York City. From a young age, I was keenly aware of the institutional and economic challenges her students faced.

2. What are you most passionate about when it comes to the mission of RiseKit?

   • One of my favorite movies is a comedy from the early 90s called “Dave.” In the movie, when the President of the United States becomes incapacitated, his Chief of Staff recruits a look-alike to take his place. The look-alike, played by Kevin Kline, declares his goal to be getting every American a job. He says, “If you’ve ever seen the look on somebody’s face the day that they finally get a job, they look like they can fly. It’s not about the paycheck. It’s about respect. It’s about looking in the mirror and knowing that you’ve done something valuable with your day.” That scene and quote have always resonated with me. While we may not be able to get everyone a job, I am eager and excited to try!

3. What are some of your personal passions or hobbies outside of work?

   • I've been a competitive swimmer my entire life, and I still enjoy swimming for exercise and occasionally competing in open water races. I'm also the father of two boys who are bigger and more athletic than I ever was. Both are football players—one played for four years in college, and the other is entering his junior year of college and still playing. I love attending their games and watching them play. As a Bronx native, I'm a huge Yankees fan. Additionally, over 30 years ago, I started a charity event to raise money for cancer research. Although I am no longer an organizer, I still participate, and we raise more than $1.5 million each year for cancer research through Swim Across America.

4. What book, movie, or piece of music has had a significant impact on you recently?

   • I love to laugh and smile. Even though not every day is great, I have a music playlist that always puts me in a positive state of mind. It includes songs like “I Can See Clearly Now” by Johnny Nash, “I Won’t Back Down” by Tom Petty, and “Get Together” by the Youngbloods.

5. How do you hope RiseKit will make a difference in the community?

   • While our ultimate goal is to help more people find fulfilling employment opportunities, RiseKit is a software company designed to enhance productivity for everyone in our marketplace. I hope that everything we build will not only make it easier for someone to get a job but also enable all users of our software to enjoy making a difference.

6. What’s one fun fact about you that not many people know?
   

   • I'm an identical twin. Years ago, we worked at a restaurant in NYC called Twins. To work there, you had to be an identical twin and work the same shift as your twin. The restaurant received a lot of press, and it was a fun experience to be part of that.

We're excited about the future with Josh Glantz at the helm. His dedication, passion, and innovative vision promise to bring new energy to RiseKit and its mission. Under Josh's leadership, we are more committed than ever to connecting individuals with meaningful employment opportunities.

We look forward to the exciting developments ahead and the ways we will continue to support essential workers and help individuals find employment through our platform. Please join us in welcoming Josh to the team!