Meet Our
Leadership Team

Get to know the people who are crazy enough to do this every day.

Headshot of Jason Goertzen NEXTAFF CFO
Headshot of John-Reed McDonald, VP of Franchise Development for NEXTAFF staffing franchise.

Meet Cary...

When it comes to operating a staffing firm, Cary has worn every hat.  From recruiting, to sales, to management, to ownership, he has been involved in every aspect of running a successful staffing business.  He has successfully led three separate companies to the Inc. 500 and Inc. 5000 lists, which puts him in an elite class of staffing entrepreneurship.  Combining that experience with a strong passion for entrepreneurs makes Cary an ideal leader for driving the Nextaff vision. 

Describe yourself in three words.

Loyal, Driven, Creative

Is there a mantra or affirmation you live by?

Do what you said you were going to do.

Do you have a celebrity doppelganger?

Back in the day, it was John Cusak.  “I want my two dollars!”

Meet James..

As the Co-Founder and COO of Nextaff, James is driven by entrepreneurial spirit. Starting his staffing career in sales, he quickly recognized the potential of the industry. Under his leadership, Nextaff has flourished for 20 years by adapting to the technological developments and changing workforce needs. Honored with multiple Inc 500 and Ingram’s Magazine recognitions, James fosters a culture of innovation and strategic growth. He aims to impact lives both professionally and personally, emphasizing lifelong learning, recognizing potential, and sharing wisdom.  

Fun fact about James...​

I have ridden/raced dirt bikes since I was seven and our family now has 4 generations of motorcycle riders.  

What song best describes you?

The Cape by Guy Clark 

Is there a mantra or affirmation you live by? 

Whether you think you can or think you can’t… you’re right! 

Meet Jason...

Jason Goertzen is a seasoned business and finance executive known for his extensive expertise in corporate management. Throughout his career, he has excelled in various roles, from strategic planning and financial restructuring to leading executive teams. Jason’s relentless drive and dedication have enabled him to deliver significant bottom-line improvements by implementing strategic initiatives and refining processes. His ability to manage external consultants and service providers further highlights his commitment to optimizing organizational performance, making him a leader and strategic thinker as the CFO of Nextaff. 

What is your favorite hobby outside of work?

I love to play golfIt provides me with quality time with family and friends. 

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned in your career so far?

There is always a solution to the problem. 

What is the best concert you have ever attended?

U2 at the Sphere in Las Vegas 

Meet Lauren...

With 28 years in the staffing industry, Lauren has not just accumulated experience; she has grown up in the world of staffing. From her early days as a recruiter, to focusing on client development, she has matured alongside this dynamic field. Her journey is a tale of learning, adapting, and mastering the art of forging lasting client partnerships. Picture a career that’s not just weathered storms but navigated through them. In a nutshell, she represents a unique blend of experience and enthusiasm, turning every staffing placement into a success story. Lauren is more than an expert; she’s a guide through the dynamic world of staffing.

What are you most passionate about?

I am passionate about building meaningful connections and fostering genuine relationships both personally and professionally.

If you could have 1 superpower, what would it be?

The ability to manipulate time. The power to control time could allow for various advantages, such as revisiting the past to learn from experiences, or glimpsing into the future to make informed decisions. 

What is the best advice you have received?

My mother used to remind me often of a proverb, “Ask not for a lighter burden, but for broader shoulders”.

Meet John-Reed...

John-Reed has a lifelong love and passion for the staffing industry that began as a child, watching his parents run their own staffing franchise. The importance and goodness of the work we do in this business never left him. He has a 25-year proven track record of transforming emerging staffing businesses into profitable, multi-million-dollar operations, as well as helping grow firms into nationwide players of large scale and presence.

What’s One Thing Most People Are Surprised to Learn About You?

I am the proud father of six daughters who consistently keep my wife and me on our toes.

Greatest Sporting Event Attended?

The Orange Bowl for the 2000 college football season, watching my alma mater (the Oklahoma Sooners) with the national title.

What is an Unhealthy Obsession of Yours?

Weeds, particularly dandelions, that constantly wage war on my lawn and vegetable garden!

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Meet Shane...

Shane’s journey with Nextaff began in 2019, when he established a successful franchise in the Kansas City metro area. His experience as a Nextaff franchise owner provides prospective buyers with a completely transparent view of the Nextaff Franchise Opportunity. Prior to his time at Nextaff, Shane led large sales teams in the Financial Services and Medical Device industries, further developing his expertise in leadership and business management.

Do you play sports?

Basketball! I was fortunate enough to play college basketball all 4 years and in 2013 we won the NCAA DII National Championship.

What do you love most about your current role?

Getting to know prospective franchise buyers. I love hearing about their goals and dreams they want to achieve through entrepreneurship.

What is your favorite color?

Orange! Yes, it is one of Nextaff’s main colors but it was my favorite before coming to Nextaff. In the franchising world, I’m known as “Orange pants guy”.