Jul 19, 2024
Robert Smith
CEO San Diego

Robert has worked in workforce development since 2000 primarily working with justice involved populations with his humble beginnings as a volunteer janitor in the STRIVE program in NYC after being released from prison.  He joined San Diego Second Chance in 2008 as the Workforce Development Manager and is currently the Director of the Center for Employment Opportunities providing a comprehensive suite of job readiness services for those impacted by criminal justice system to help individuals avoid the cycle that often leads the back to incarceration by creating opportunities to find and retain employment. Over the past two decades he has worked across the US, London, Ireland and Scotland helping organizations and systems design more person-centered approaches.  His passion and dedication is fueled by his own lived experience of cycling through the justice system and wanting to break the cycle.