Employee Spotlight: John Cantlay

Each quarter we shine a spotlight on team members who exemplify our dedication to service and our core values. This quarter, Q1-2024, we are pleased to honor John Cantlay, with our President’s Award.

Since his arrival to Gentle Transitions California, a WellRive Company, in August of 2020, John has continuously demonstrated a passion for enriching the lives of others – amplified by his ability to blend the meticulous and sensitive sides of his personality – qualities that have undoubtedly fueled his career trajectory in senior move management.

“I’m really a fanatic about being prepared and being ready to show the movers what they’re going to be doing,” says John. “Move days are probably the most intense for me, but I’m never, never bored.”

After years of being a resource for so many clients in hospitality and senior communities, he’s thrilled to have a such a meaningful role in senior move management, using his skills to guide his clients through one of life’s toughest transitions – moving to their last home.

“I’m usually pretty successful (in my work) because you obviously need empathy, compassion and you have to walk in their shoes and understand that the client may have lived in this house for 45-50 years…they’ve accumulated a lot of things that mean so much to them.”

Q & A

What components make up a good team?

A good team is made up of people who are hardworking, responsible and enthusiastic about their job. They should, of course, respect one another and be open to suggestions. And they should make sure that the client is absolutely satisfied with their work upon completion.

What are three critical traits a client should look for in a prospective senior move management company?

An excellent reputation, reliability, and a willingness to accommodate the client’s needs as best as possible, among many other things.

If you could go anywhere, where would you relocate to?

I basically like where I am now. I relocated from Los Angeles to the San Francisco Bay Area about 13 years ago for a new job, and that worked out just fine.  

What’s either the best advice you’ve ever received or worst advice you’ve ever received?

Good Advice: “It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.” 

Tell us something you’re excited about.

I’m excited about new opportunities – whatever they may be – in the senior move management industry.