smartdept. opened on January 14th, 2002. Creatives themselves, Michelle and Eric, set out to find better opportunities for their like-minded peers. Nearly two decades later, they’re still taking a boutique approach to service and are still passionate about the creative industry. Always the trendsetters, ownership focuses on Diversity, Equality, Inclusion, and Sustainability as core principles. And they are producing positive results nationwide.

MICHELLE PAIRITZ
Principal

Michelle started in graphic design and soon landed a role as a recruiter and loved it. With 20+ years of creative staffing experience, some of the smartdept. inc.’s biggest clients started off looking for work through Michelle in the beginning. Michelle is also mom to four girls and painter of potentially famous artwork. She loves to travel, listen to Grateful Dead, and cook. Foods she will wrestle you for include pretzels and cheese.

Email Michelle

ERIC PAIRITZ
Principal

Eric is a graduate of the Ringling School of Art and Design and worked as a print designer in healthcare before beginning his now 20+ year career in creative staffing. He is a water-skier, runner, and rabid Cubs fan. His best sports achievement would have to be hitting a home run during Cubs fantasy camp. Dad to four beautiful daughters, he is also very used to being outnumbered. And his baseball card collection is probably better than yours.

Email Eric