Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – February 10, 2026 – Engage PEO, a leading professional employer organization providing HR outsourcing solutions to small and mid-sized businesses nationwide, today announced that Matthew (Matt) Downs has joined the company as vice president of sales, Michigan. In this role, Downs will lead sales growth across Michigan and support Engage’s continued expansion throughout the Midwest.
“The Midwest is home to resilient, growth-minded businesses that value trusted relationships and straight-forward guidance,” said Jay Starkman, CEO of Engage PEO. “As employers across the region face increasing workforce complexity, they are looking for HR partners who understand their industries, their regulatory environment, and their long-term goals. Matt’s experience working closely with brokers and business advisors makes him a strong fit as we continue to expand Engage’s presence and support employers throughout Michigan and the broader Midwest.”
Downs brings more than 25 years of experience in the employee benefits, payroll, and PEO space, including leadership roles as a consultant, business development executive, and co-founder of a payroll and benefits organization. He is known for building durable referral networks and helping advisors position workforce solutions as practical tools that protect client relationships and support sustainable growth.
Throughout his career, Downs has worked alongside insurance professionals and other advisors to address complex challenges related to benefits strategy, payroll administration, workforce risk, and compliance. His background gives him a clear understanding of the pressures Midwest employers face as they grow, compete for talent, and adapt to changing regulatory requirements.
“Midwest businesses value partners who show up, understand their challenges, and deliver consistent results,” said Downs. “Engage has built a strong reputation for doing exactly that. I’m excited to help expand Engage’s footprint in Michigan and support employers and advisors across the region.”
About Engage PEO
Engage PEO delivers comprehensive HR solutions to small and mid-sized businesses nationwide, sharpening their competitive advantage. Comprised of the industry’s most respected veteran professional employer organization executives, certified HR professionals, and attorneys, Engage PEO provides hands-on, expert HR services and counsel to help clients minimize costs and maximize efficiency for stronger business performance. The company’s superior service offering includes a full range of payroll technology and tax administration, employer compliance, health and workers’ compensation insurance products, advanced technology, and risk management services as part of an extensive suite of HR services.
Engage PEO was among the first PEOs awarded the Certified Professional Employer Organization (CPEO) designation by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), ensuring greater benefits for small and mid-sized businesses such as tax advantages and financial protections. Engage PEO is also accredited by the Employer Services Assurance Corporation. Engage PEO was named to Inc. magazine’s list of the 5000 fastest-growing companies nine times since 2016. For more information on Engage PEO, visit www.engagepeo.com.