CBS STRENGTHENS LEADERSHIP TEAM WITH CHIEF PRODUCT OFFICER APPOINTMENT

Complete Background Screening (CBS), one of the UK’s longest-established providers of pre-employment screening and DBS checks, has appointed Samantha Vaughan as chief product officer, as organisations face growing regulatory complexity and rising concerns around data integrity, fraud and hiring risk.
The appointment comes as demand for robust background screening continues to increase across both the public and private sectors, driven by tighter compliance requirements and heightened scrutiny of recruitment practices. Founded in 2005, CBS works with thousands of organisations in the UK and overseas, ranging from NHS trusts and local authorities to multinational businesses, charities and education providers.
Vaughan brings nearly two decades of experience in the background screening sector, having held senior leadership roles spanning operations, regulatory oversight and product development. Based in South Wales, she has been involved in designing and delivering screening frameworks used by employers across multiple industries and jurisdictions.
She said joining CBS marked a natural progression in her career.
“CBS’s values align with my own. Being able to help shape the strategy behind products that keep organisations safe and compliant is incredibly rewarding. This industry matters, and I’m excited to be part of a company that takes that seriously.”
As chief product officer, Vaughan will be responsible for leading product strategy and development, with a particular emphasis on improving client experience while maintaining the accuracy and compliance standards required in regulated hiring environments.
“My priority is to push forward innovation that reduces friction without losing accuracy. Employers want to move fast, but they also need to be sure. We’ll be working on tools and processes that support both.”
The background screening market is undergoing significant change as employers grapple with evolving risks, including the misuse of artificial intelligence, identity fraud and the handling of sensitive personal data. Vaughan believes this presents both challenges and opportunities for providers that combine technology with regulatory expertise.
“The whole market is facing new challenges around AI, fraud and data. There’s a lot to stay on top of, but there’s also a huge opportunity. CBS is in a great position to help customers understand what’s ahead, and I’m looking forward to being part of that.”
Rachel Bedgood, Chief Executive of CBS, said the appointment reflects the company’s focus on long-term growth and product-led development.
“Samantha brings a wealth of experience, and a clear understanding of what customers need. Her knowledge of product, regulation and the wider market will be invaluable as we continue to grow. We’re delighted to welcome her to the team.”
CBS provides a range of screening services including DBS, BPSS and BS7858 checks, combining regulatory knowledge with a technology-enabled, people-first approach. The company employs more than 20 people and works with organisations including G4S, ITV and the British Heart Foundation.
As employers place increasing emphasis on trust, compliance and risk management in recruitment, CBS’s latest leadership appointment signals a continued investment in product capability at a time of rapid change in the UK’s employment screening landscape.
