Meet Rob Valenzuela

Connections matter for Rob Valenzuela.

Not just the kind on LinkedIn. Real conversations, real relationships, and understanding what truly drives someone forward. Relationship-building isn’t just part of the job for Rob—it’s who he is.

“I went to 19 different schools growing up,” he says. “I’ve always been able to connect with people on a personal level pretty quickly.”

That adaptability was forged early in life. Born in California, Rob lived in cities like Downey, Riverside, and San Bernardino before making stops in Paducah and Marion, Kentucky, and then Cincinnati and Richmond, Ohio. His mother’s enlistment in the Army brought the family to Virginia, where he eventually graduated from Woodside High School in Newport News.

Today, Rob is back in Newport News—this time with roots firmly planted and a mission in motion. As an Executive Search Consultant at Lee Group Search, he brings his natural gift for connection to the world of recruiting, with a focus on the fast-evolving renewable energy sector.

“I like that I’m helping someone chase a dream,” he says. “A better opportunity can change someone’s life—and their family’s, too.”

Rob’s path to Lee Group Search began through a conversation with Executive Search Consultant Adam Peters, a friend from his high school circle. What started as a casual catch-up led to deeper discussions about values, purpose, and career fulfillment. Not long after, President Wes Ashworth asked, “Would you like to come work with us?”

“I’d love to!” Rob responded—marking the beginning of a new chapter that felt like a natural fit.

“Recruiting is all about relationships,” he says. “Because of my background, I can connect with people—whether it’s in person or over the phone—almost instantly. That makes a real difference in this work.”

Outside of the office, Rob is a proud girl dad, a diehard fan of the Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter franchises, and a loyal Las Vegas Raiders supporter (though he still prefers the Oakland days—and Rich Gannon under center)