Her Story
About Andrea
Andrea Leonelli is a multifaceted executive, entrepreneur, producer, and nonprofit leader with decades of experience spanning staffing, risk management, human resources, and entertainment. Based in California, she serves as Executive Operating Officer of Simple Staffing Inc, where she has built expertise in workforce solutions, recruiting strategy, payroll operations, employee relations, and safety management. After successfully growing and selling her previous staffing company following years of significant sales growth, Andrea established herself as a trusted advisor in executive recruiting, temporary placement, labor management, and business development. Her approach centers on building long-term relationships through integrity, discretion, and delivering cost-effective solutions for clients.
Throughout her career, Andrea has demonstrated strong leadership in risk management, workers’ compensation, and operational efficiency. She has helped organizations reduce workplace risks through proactive safety programs, employee training, compliance initiatives, and strategic workforce planning. Beyond staffing, Andrea has maintained a strong connection to the arts and entertainment industry. She currently works as a Producer with Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios and recently produced the feature film Healing Towers. Her earlier career included work as a model and actress with Wilhelmina Models, reflecting her ability to successfully transition across creative and business fields.
Andrea is also deeply committed to philanthropy, mentorship, and preserving women’s contributions to history and the arts. She serves in leadership roles with nonprofit and arts organizations, including her involvement with the Cameron Parsons Foundation, and supports initiatives focused on recognizing overlooked women artists through the Almost Forgotten Women project. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from New York University and a Master of Fine Arts degree from Rutgers Business School. Guided by values of honesty, trust, resilience, and service, Andrea continues to inspire others through entrepreneurship, creative leadership, and advocacy for women and emerging professionals.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Andrea
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to honesty, building trust with clients and staff, and the fact that nobody told me I couldn't do it. I learned to be truthful and not listen to people saying you can't.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Miss B has been one of my most influential mentors, helping me build confidence, develop my leadership skills, and grow throughout my professional journey.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Lead with honesty and integrity. Build trust by being truthful with clients and colleagues, and never let others’ doubts stop you from pursuing your goals.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges and opportunities in my field include adapting to the impact of AI on traditional hiring processes. Resumes are becoming less reliable, making interviews, skills assessments, and practical evaluations more important. Staffing practices are also evolving, with companies rethinking temporary roles and increasingly offering benefits to support employees.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value integrity, honesty, resilience, service, mentorship, and giving back. I believe successful women have a responsibility to create opportunities and guide the next generation. I am passionate about supporting women, mentoring young professionals, nonprofit work, film production, and expanding opportunities for underserved youth through education and the arts.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.