John Gimesh is a results-driven executive with over 30 years of leadership experience across food and beverage, hospitality, retail, tourism, customer experience, and convenience stores. With a strong foundation in strategic visioning, he has successfully transformed businesses by driving financial performance, streamlining operations, and implementing innovative solutions. His expertise in business strategy, contract negotiations, and customer engagement has made him a trusted leader in both private and government sectors.
As Principal Partner at Complete Foodservice Solutions, John leads a full-service consulting firm specializing in outsourced services, contract structuring, and process improvement. He has redefined client relationship management, fostering strategic partnerships that result in long-term growth and sustainability. His deep expertise in RFP management, procurement, and kitchen design has helped organizations reduce costs, improve efficiency, and maximize profitability. Through his innovative Resource Knowledge Center, he has created an industry platform that provides professionals with valuable tools, insights, and best practices, enabling them to navigate complex operational challenges with confidence.
Prior to founding Complete Foodservice Solutions, John served as Managing Director at TKC Holdings, where he played a pivotal role in business optimization, leadership development, and operational efficiency. His efforts led to an 8% increase in productivity across 434 locations, a 27.6% reduction in employee turnover, and the launch of ASCEND, a groundbreaking vocational and leadership training program. By implementing process-driven strategies, he enhanced operational consistency and expanded micro-market concepts and safety programs, driving both market presence and profitability.
John’s ability to manage large-scale financial operations was evident during his tenure as Global Director of Operations at Sodexo, where he oversaw a $50 million budget to develop United Airlines Polaris lounges. Under his leadership, the Chicago O’Hare Polaris Lounge earned the Skytrax Best Business Class Lounge award, a recognition determined by over 20 million global airline customers. His luxury service models and hospitality standards doubled guest counts and achieved profitability within just six months, demonstrating his ability to align financial targets with customer experience excellence.
At CoreCivic, John oversaw food service operations in 65 facilities across 23 states, leading a workforce of over 6,500 employees. With a focus on risk management and operational efficiency, he implemented cost-saving strategies that resulted in $9 million in annual savings, optimized supply chains, and reduced energy usage by 15% through Six Sigma and DMAIC methodologies. His leadership not only improved service quality but also reinforced a culture of safety, compliance, and accountability across multiple locations.
John’s career also includes leadership roles at ExxonMobil, SMS Holdings, and Stouffer Renaissance Hotels, where he developed business growth strategies, spearheaded operational improvements, and launched large-scale marketing initiatives. His contributions to the On-the-Run convenience store concept at ExxonMobil played a key role in its nationwide expansion and recognition as a top-tier retail model.
Committed to leadership development and continuous improvement, John holds a Master of Science in Human Resources Management and Services, a Bachelor of Science in Food Service Management, and an Associate of Science in Culinary Arts—all from Johnson & Wales University. He further refined his expertise through a culinary fellowship in hotel and restaurant management at InterContinental Budapest, Hungary. Additionally, he has completed executive leadership certifications from The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center, Disney Institute, and FEMA, reinforcing his ability to empower teams, drive financial growth, and enhance customer experience.
With extensive international experience spanning Israel, Budapest, and London, John has developed a deep understanding of global business practices, customer preferences, and cross-cultural leadership. His expertise in strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions, and financial oversight has allowed him to drive sustained success across a wide range of industries.
A recognized thought leader and speaker, John frequently addresses audiences on employee engagement, leadership strategies, and operational excellence. His passion for mentoring emerging leaders and fostering cross-functional collaboration continues to shape businesses and redefine industry standards.
Outside of his professional life, John is an avid collector of medical antiques and enjoys raising koi fish. He remains actively engaged in mentoring future leaders and is seeking opportunities to serve on corporate boards, leveraging his strategic mindset, business acumen, and financial expertise to drive organizational growth and governance.
Character: John is a dedicated and results-driven leader known for his integrity, passion for excellence, and ability to inspire teams. He fosters collaborative environments that drive both individual and organizational growth.
Knowledge
With over three decades of experience, John possesses deep expertise in business strategy, operational leadership, and customer engagement. His diverse background in hospitality, food service, and retail gives him a unique perspective on business transformation.
Strategic
John has a proven track record of developing and executing high-impact business strategies. His ability to optimize operations, drive profitability, and foster innovation has resulted in significant financial and operational improvements.
Communication
A skilled communicator and mentor, John excels in executive leadership, public speaking, and stakeholder engagement. His ability to align teams with corporate objectives and enhance customer experiences makes him an invaluable asset to any organization.
