Episode 39: Summa McCosker: Building a Global Background Screening Empire from the Ground Up

Send us Fan MailWhat kind of person can turn a local startup into a global standard-setter—navigating legal landscapes, scaling teams, and staying human through it all? That’s the kind of trailblazing journey we explore in this episode. In this episode of Behind the Screens, I had the privilege of sitting down with Summa McCosker, a dynamic force in the background screening world, whose 27-year journey from a tiny retail job in a fishing village to becoming the APAC Chair of PBSA is nothing short of remarkable. We explore her path through startups, global leadership, and the power of saying yes to unexpected opportunities. Summa shares the wins, the failures, the clairvoyant doubts she crushed, and the deep “why” behind her commitment to compliance, education, and global progress. This conversation is a masterclass in resilience, strategic vision, and how passion can turn into purpose—even with two teenage sons, a cat, and a teapot collection in the background. You don’t want to miss this.Pro Conversation You don’t want to miss!1. From Small-Town Start to Global Impact2. Building, Selling, and Scaling with Vision3. Education, Privacy, and PBSA Leadership4. True Crime, Teapots, and Life Beyond ScreeningSumma’s story reminds us that the background screening industry thrives on resilience, curiosity, and community. If you’re just starting out or wondering where this career path can take you—her journey is proof that it can be as rewarding as it is unpredictable.If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, follow, and review Behind the Screens. Every review helps us bring these behind-the-scenes conversations to a wider audience. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!Connect with US:Les Rosen- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterrosen/Subscribe to our YouTube Channel- https://www.youtube.com/@BehindtheSCreens200