Send a text

In this international edition of Behind the Screens, I’m joined by the leadership team of the PBSA Europe & Africa Council: Martin Hardy, Will Hogarth, and Sally Ott-Lacoste.

We explore how each of them entered the background screening industry, what keeps them passionate about it, and how the industry continues to evolve across Europe and Africa. We also preview the upcoming PBSA Europe & Africa Summit in London and discuss why this event is becoming essential for professionals who want to grow their network, knowledge, and global impact.

Beyond compliance and accreditation, this episode is about leadership, community, adaptability, and the human responsibility behind screening.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

1. How Martin, Will, and Sally entered the background screening industry
2. The evolving role of startups, tech innovation, and social media vetting
3. Why trust, honesty, and context are essential in screening
4. What PBSA represents across Europe and Africa
5. How global accreditation strengthens best practices
6. What makes the PBSA Europe & Africa Summit a must-attend event
7. Why networking is not optional if you want to grow in this industry
8. How to build meaningful connections, even with competitors
9. The biggest lessons these leaders have learned about integrity and fairness
10. Why curiosity and adaptability are critical for long-term success

What We Discuss About the PBSA Europe & Africa Summit

•   The 2026 Summit theme and agenda direction
• Why education and networking are equally important
• How sponsors contribute to the long-term growth of the industry
• The importance of walking away with new connections and fresh ideas
• Why making one new meaningful relationship can change your career

This Episode Is for You If:

• You work in background screening and want a global perspective
• You’re considering attending the PBSA Europe & Africa Summit
• You want to move into leadership roles within the industry
• You’re building or growing a screening business
• You believe screening is about more than data; it’s about responsibility
• You want to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving regulatory and tech landscape

We also lighten things up with a speed round covering mentors, proud moments, life outside screening, Lindy Hop dancing, sailing, and even brass band busking.

This episode reminds us that behind every screening report is a human decision, and behind every successful screening company is a community.

If you are part of this industry, this conversation is worth your time.

See you next time on 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/