Joi is a seasoned on-premise and off-premise catering sales professional with over 20 years of experience in account management, business consulting, client relations, business development, strategic planning and CPG management. In 2017, Alexander was named Director of Catering Sales at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United. Alexander received the Top Sales Performer Award for 2019 exceeding group sales revenue by $7M. During her time at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Joi played a major role in spearheading the catering and private event business which generated over $5M in revenue year over year.

From dining services to hospitality administration, the Pennsylvania Culinary alumna is well-versed in FOH and BOH operations. As CEO Candi also oversees the development of the PHG restaurant portfolio which includes, Brown Butler Cafe (fall 23), Caribana (Summer 24), and the well-known concept Ruby’s Southern Comfort Kitchen (Ruby’s So.Co. Kitchen), a family-owned and operated fast-casual restaurant specializing in comfort food. At the heart of Candi’ s work is a deeper mission to support the advancement and success of aspiring Black restaurateurs — mitigating the barriers to access, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive within the space. With a deep knowledge of restaurant management, business operations and customer success Candi is a trusted industry resource. Candi is a member of The City of Bowie’s Economic Development Committee, a member of The Restaurant Advisory Committee for Doordash, and an advisory board member for the PGCC Hospitality & Culinary Arts program. She is also a founding member of The Bow Collective. When she’s not spearheading operations, Candi can be found in her sanctuary cooking, traveling, or spending time with her husband Jason, and their daughters.

Jese brings to the classroom a wealth of real-world experience, having worked with industry giants and emerging innovators alike. Her unique ability to bridge the gap between theory and practice has made her a sought-after mentor, inspiring students to not only understand complex systems but to excel in optimizing them.

Jese Gary’s influence extends beyond the classroom, as she collaborates with industry experts and academic institutions to shape the future of systems and operations. Her dedication to driving positive change has earned her recognition and respect from colleagues and peers around the world.

In a world where the mastery of systems, supply chains, and insightful analysis is paramount, Jese Gary stands as a beacon of knowledge, a mentor, and a catalyst for transformation. Her impact on education and industry is immeasurable, and her legacy as a Systems & Operations Instructor at Magnolia University is one that continues to inspire generations of students to shape a brighter future