Executive suite: Barbara Lehrer, Roslyn

A former speech pathologist, Barbara Lehrer founded a staffing company in 1995.

The Beacon Group specializes in services for the disabled and special-needs populations on Long Island, New York City and Westchester. Services include specialized clinicians such as social workers, nurses and direct-care support staff. The firm also provides executive search services.

Previously housed in various restaurants, Beacon is now located in a historic building in Roslyn. "It's fun to work here," Lehrer notes. "It was built around the time Lincoln was assassinated."

In honor of her late mother, Lehrer started The Martin-Lehrer Foundation, which donates to charities, hospitals, schools and foundations.

Lehrer, 62, is married. Her two sons also work for the company.

What was the most challenging thing about starting a business?
At that time, working with state agencies "was the most challenging thing, and it's still the most challenging thing," she says with a laugh.

How has the recession impacted business?
"Business is still there. Collections are slower. But there are still people out there in need who basically look to us to help them. It's not really like we can raise prices," she says of the state reimbursement rates. "It is what it is."

How did you learn how to manage other people?
"Who said I ever learned? I don't know. It's something that you learn as you go along. It's a constant learning thing. There's always new experiences that come up -- aha moments. In these times when there are so many more individuals who are needy and seem to be left out, you just have to rise to the occasion, which is basically how I started the business. If you don't rise to the occasion, then you are not in business."

How would you describe your management style?
"Laissez-faire. I like to let people do their job and I kind of watch, and if something's not going right, then I will say something. But it takes me a while to say something."

What qualities do you look for in hiring?
"The ability to communicate well. The ability to document. Compassion."

What are your plans for growth?
The company sees a growth opportunity in providing training classes for agency employees.

"I'm also hoping that as the economy starts to get better and companies are hiring and they do want to find that correct person, that they will have heard of us and give us a call to see who we can find."

What advice do you have for someone who wants to start a business?
"I definitely think they should do it. I think there's nothing more rewarding than doing it and being successful at it. They should look at their field, and look who's doing it and making money at it - and just copy them. And call us, maybe we'll be a partner."

Corporate snapshot

Name. Barbara Lehrer

Titile. President

Company. The Beacon Group

Business. Special-needs services staffing, recruitment

Location. Roslyn

TYPE: Private company

Revenue. $5 million annually

Employees.  15; plus as many as 300 independent contractors or part-time employees