Roots of Leadership

Born and raised in Albany, Georgia, CJ Hardy's path to leadership began under the guidance of mentors who saw potential in his spirited approach to challenges and his natural ability to inspire those around him. At Kennesaw State University, CJ not only pursued Journalism and Sports Management but also became a pivotal member of his academic community, using his articulate nature and strategic thinking to lead student initiatives and enhance campus life.

Embarking on a Hospitality Journey

CJ's foray into hospitality was marked by his early role at Chick-fil-A, where he quickly distinguished himself with his proactive service and genuine interactions. His career progression through customer-facing roles at Champs Sports and FedEx further honed his ability to understand and anticipate customer needs, laying a solid foundation for his future in hospitality leadership

Rising Through the Ranks at Your 3rd Spot

Joining Your 3rd Spot as an Amplifier, CJ was a catalyst from the start, bringing energy and precision to every task. His journey through the roles of Trainer, Team Lead was characterized by his relentless pursuit of excellence and his ability to foster a supportive and motivating environment for his peers. Today, as Guest Experience Manager, CJ is pivotal in shaping the operational success and the vibrant culture of Your 3rd Spot Atlanta.

A Leader Who Inspires

CJ's leadership style is deeply rooted in empathy and empowerment. He is renowned for his ability to see potential in his team members and guide them towards achieving their personal best. His training sessions are not just about imparting knowledge but about igniting passion and instilling a sense of purpose in everyone he mentors.

Transforming Team Dynamics

In his role as Guest Experience Manager, CJ Hardy transcends traditional operational duties to foster an environment where excellence isn't just an aspiration—it's an expectation woven into the fabric of every shift. At the heart of CJ's approach is his passion for training and mentoring. He recognizes that a team member's first day is not merely an introduction but a critical moment that sets the trajectory for their success and integration into the Y3S community.

CJ personally oversees the onboarding process, ensuring that each new hire is greeted not just with instructions, but with inspiration. He crafts these initial experiences to be immersive and empowering, allowing newcomers to feel an immediate sense of belonging and purpose. His training sessions are dynamic and comprehensive, designed to instill confidence and foster a deep understanding of our culture and values. Through his hands-on approach, CJ ensures that every team member is equipped to excel from their very first interaction with guests.

His commitment to excellence is reflected in the proactive strategies he implements to enhance team cohesion and guest satisfaction. CJ’s efforts have turned Your 3rd Spot into a model of hospitality excellence, where the guest experience is consistently exceptional, and team members grow into their roles with enthusiasm and expertise. His influence makes the venue not just a place to work, but a place to learn, thrive, and make meaningful connections.

Life Beyond Leadership

Outside of work, CJ’s passions reflect the same dynamism he brings to his professional role. An avid WWE fan, CJ finds inspiration in the resilience and charisma of wrestlers, drawing parallels to the theatricality required in creating memorable guest experiences. His dreams of meeting wrestling legends like John Cena and exploring new cultures underline his continual quest for growth, self-improvement and inspiration.

A Testament to Dedication and Vision

CJ Hardy's journey at Your 3rd Spot Atlanta is not just about career progression; it's about his transformative impact on the community and culture of the venue. His path from an entry-level position to leadership embodies the ethos of Your 3rd Spot—believing in the potential of each individual and fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.

We are immensely proud to have CJ as part of our leadership team, and we look forward to his continued contributions to our community. His story is a powerful reminder of how dedication, vision, and genuine care for others can shape a truly inspirational career.

His journey continues….