Acara’s team embodies passion, drive, and a commitment to excellence—and few represent this better than Massimo Valenzano, a Senior Recruitment Specialist at Acara. From the ski slopes of Whistler to his bustling desk in Mississauga, Massimo’s story is one of resilience, curiosity, and a desire to connect with others.

Life Before Acara 

From Mississauga to Whistler
Massimo grew up in Mississauga, Ontario, and later moved to Whistler, British Columbia, where he cultivated a love for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. After a two-year adventure filled with mountain life and camaraderie, a torn ACL led him back to Ontario, where he now resides in Milton with his wife and their beloved dog, Dookie Doo. 

Educational Journey
Massimo studied Business, Marketing, and Sales at Sheridan College, where his knack for connecting with people set the foundation for his recruitment career. 

Career Beginnings
Retail management and fine dining taught Massimo the importance of professionalism, adaptability, and building rapport—skills that prepared him perfectly for recruitment. Following multiple coffee chats with Acara’s Nigel Hapuarachchi, Massimo joined the team as a Recruitment Specialist, a position he has held and grown in for the past four years.

Life at Acara 

Growing with Acara
Since joining in December 2020, Massimo’s career has flourished. Recently promoted to Senior Recruitment Specialist in May 2024, he credits Acara’s supportive and communicative environment for his growth. 

A Day in the Life
Massimo oversees the recruitment process end-to-end, from understanding client needs to presenting job offers. “Effective communication is key,” he shares, whether liaising with clients, coaching candidates, or collaborating with his team. 

The Acara Difference
What sets Acara apart? “The strong communication throughout the organization,” Massimo notes. From the inclusive Learners Club to cultural diversity discussions, Acara fosters connectivity and values every voice. Events like summer barbecues and holiday parties provide opportunities to build relationships beyond the office.

Challenges and Rewards 

The Thrill of the Job
For Massimo, recruitment is a win-win: solving client challenges while helping candidates achieve their career dreams. “Helping people find work brings a lot of meaning to my job,” he says. 

Navigating Niche Roles
The industry isn’t without challenges—finding candidates for niche positions can be tough. However, Massimo’s solution-oriented mindset keeps him motivated to deliver results. 

The Future of Recruitment
As AI becomes more integrated into recruitment tools, Massimo is optimistic about how technology will enhance the hiring process.

Life Outside of Work 

Morning Routine
Each morning starts with a walk with Dookie, a rescue dog from St. Lucia who has adapted to Canadian winters with the help of a cozy jacket. 

Passions and Hobbies
From perfecting 25+ tricks with Dookie to making fresh tomato sauce (80 jars last year!), Massimo’s life is full of activity. A lifelong Toronto Maple Leafs fan and multi-instrumentalist, he spends his downtime at concerts and cheering on his team. 

Travel Dreams
New Zealand holds a special place in Massimo’s heart, and he hopes to revisit its breathtaking landscapes—or embark on a ski adventure in Japan.

One Word to Describe Acara?

Fulfilling. 

Final Thoughts 

Massimo’s journey at Acara is a testament to the company’s commitment to fostering growth, encouraging connection, and empowering employees to thrive. Whether he’s solving recruitment challenges or building relationships over lunch, Massimo exemplifies what it means to be All In at Acara.