Meet John

John Estes offers a unique blend of expertise garnered from over two decades of thriving in the dynamic hospitality industry, coupled with his transition into talent acquisition as a Recruiting Partner with Goodwin Recruiting. With a proven track record of success during his tenure at The Cheesecake Factory as a seasoned general manager, John brings a deep understanding of the intricacies that drive excellence in the hospitality sector. His commitment to excellence, coupled with a passion for delivering outstanding customer experiences, ensures that both clients and candidates benefit from his dedication to matching exceptional talent with rewarding opportunities.

John Estes’ journey into talent acquisition was paved by a diverse background that seamlessly blends military discipline, engineering acumen, and extensive hospitality management experience. Having served in the United States Navy as a Nuclear Reactor Operator, John transitioned into hospitality with an engineer’s mindset, leveraging analytical problem-solving skills and a keen eye for detail. His rich experience in the hospitality sector, including a decade-long tenure as a general manager, equipped him with invaluable insights and a deep understanding of what drives success in the industry.

Furthermore, John’s passion for technology and innovation led him to complete a Web Development Bootcamp and to immerse himself in the integration and wiring of his own smart home. This hands-on experience underscores his proficiency in information technology and his ability to leverage technological advancements to optimize operational efficiency and enhance customer experiences within the hospitality industry.

This unique combination of skills and experiences laid the foundation for John’s transition into the role of a Recruiting Partner, where he continues to leverage his industry insights and technological expertise to connect exceptional candidates with rewarding career opportunities.

John Estes is driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and organizations alike. His approachability, coupled with a commitment to fostering collaborative and inclusive work environments, reflects his belief in the power of teamwork and mutual respect. Outside of his professional pursuits, John enjoys spending quality time with his family and exploring new culinary experiences—a passion that stems from his deep-rooted connection to the hospitality industry.