The Lee Group, a leading staffing and executive search firm headquartered in Newport News, has announced new leadership as longtime executives Walt Graham and Eric Kean retire. Wes Ashworth and…
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The Lee Group, a leading staffing and executive search firm headquartered in Newport News, has announced new leadership as longtime executives Walt Graham and Eric Kean retire. Wes Ashworth and Sarah Fulton, two seasoned leaders with a combined 25 years at the firm, have been named Presidents of Executive Search and Staffing, respectively.
Ashworth now leads Lee Group Search, the firm’s executive recruiting division with a national reach in placing top talent in renewable energy and other professional sectors. Fulton takes the helm of The Lee Group’s staffing division, which serves clients across Eastern Virginia in industries such as industrial and manufacturing, clerical, hospitality and professional services.
Former President Walt Graham and Principal Eric Kean retired at the end of 2024, having led the company since acquiring it in 2007 and cementing its national reputation for transparency and integrity in recruiting.
Ashworth joined The Lee Group in 2014 and steadily advanced through leadership, most recently serving as Vice President of Executive Search.
“This work has purpose, and I’m excited to continue building something that makes a difference,” Ashworth said.
Fulton, who is also Graham’s daughter, has been with the firm since 2009. She introduced cutting-edge technology and methodology to modernize operations, led the acquisition of Medical Temporaries, Inc., and now balances oversight of both companies.
“This is about continuing my father’s legacy and building for the future,” she said.
Together, Ashworth and Fulton aim to unify and elevate The Lee Group’s staffing and executive search services.
“We operate two strong service lines—but we lead as one team,” Fulton said.
With offices in Newport News, Chesapeake and Richmond, and an expanding presence at the Suffolk Workforce Center, The Lee Group is poised for continued regional and national growth.
Ashworth, a member of the Pinnacle Society, and Fulton, a TempNet Staffing Association member, are connected to top thought leaders in the industry.
Founded in 1971, The Lee Group remains committed to its people-first mission. Recent initiatives include a company-wide wellness program that provides employees dedicated time each week for mental and physical health.