A Discipline of Care and Operational Excellence
Carlos Javier Rodriguez (CJ) brings more than 30 years of leadership across hospitality, multi-site operations, culinary innovation, and people-first development to FriendshipWorks. From global hotel kitchens to multi-unit ownership and turnaround work, he has built high-performing teams in high-pressure environments, always grounded in a simple idea: people thrive when they feel seen, supported, and proud of their work.
CJ first came to know FriendshipWorks through his mother-in-law, Nancy, and the impact the organization had on her life. Witnessing her transformation made him a believer in what FriendshipWorks does best: create steady, meaningful relationships that reduce isolation and restore a sense of being seen and valued. CJ joined the FriendshipWorks board with a clear conviction: "Elder isolation and loneliness aren't just emotional, they're physical. This is a growing health crisis that quietly shortens lives. When people feel connected, they do better in every way. FriendshipWorks makes that connection real.”
As a board member, CJ brings three decades of operator leadership and a human-first lens focused on one thing: scale care without industrializing it. He's particularly interested in practical systems, training, and thoughtfully applied technologies that streamline processes for staff and volunteers. "My hope is to help FriendshipWorks stay sustainable and resilient by concentrating on where I can bring the most value, working alongside an amazing team, and protecting the warmth and compassion at the heart of its mission as it grows.”
CJ has lived in Greater Boston for more than 20 years. He now lives in Needham with his wife and two children (ages 7 and 3). He balances entrepreneurship with being a supporting husband and a deeply hands-on parent.
