Our history

YER traces its roots back to 1987 when Jaap Kooijman founded the company in the Netherlands.
Recognizing a gap between temporary employment and executive search services, Jaap established Young Executive Recruitment (YER) with the aim of connecting young students and academics with employment opportunities.

Setting itself apart as an innovator in the Netherlands, YER became the pioneering entity in advertising job vacancies extensively in newspapers and magazines.

In 2003, YER embarked on a journey of expansion, opening offices in various locations across the Netherlands.

In 2007, an employee of YER recognized the potential for the company to expand into the American market. Thanks to his vision, YER USA was born. Initially, with offices in Atlanta and Seattle, YER USA swiftly assembled a team of American professionals with recruitment and staffing expertise.

However, soon the onset of the 2008 crisis prompted a reevaluation of strategy. Realizing the saturation of recruitment agencies in the U.S., YER USA found itself facing unexpected challenges. Underestimating the size of the U.S. market and the investment required, the team had to consolidate its offices.

Despite the setbacks, this period of struggle became a defining moment for YER USA.

Shifting gears, YER USA saw untapped potential in European companies. And just like a lightbulb moment the question was raised: “Why not focus on them?”

Applying what the company learned from its own struggles, alongside its understanding of the unique needs and language of European businesses, YER USA started resonating with clients on a deeper level.

As a result, clients expressed “Finally, someone understands me”. That strategic shift paid off big time, leading to significant growth and expansion.

Today, YER USA boasts a diverse team hailing from over 20 countries, collectively speaking 13 languages. With offices in Atlanta, New York, and Washington D.C.-