On October 18, 2024, John Clements Consultants, Inc. (JCCI) gathered to honor the 93rd birthday of its founder, Leocadio “Cady” J. Dominguez—a visionary whose leadership continues to inspire the company he established 50 years ago. With his quiet strength and sharp intellect, Cady left an indelible mark on everyone he worked with, leading by example and setting a high standard for excellence.
The event commenced with a solemn Mass at the Van Gogh Room in the JC Hub, followed by a lunch where colleagues came together to share memories and celebrate the legacy of a man whose impact continues to shape the future of the company.
As we remember and celebrate Cady’s enduring legacy on this special day, those who worked closely with him have shared their heartfelt memories and tributes. These reflections speak to his profound impact on each of us and the lasting inspiration he continues to provide, even as we carry forward the vision he set for John Clements Consultants.
Legacy of Leadership
“It is often said that great leaders don’t just build companies; they build people, legacies, and lasting impact. Leocadio “Cady” Dominguez, the late founder of John Clements Consultants, was one such leader. A Harvard graduate with a stellar corporate career spanning renowned organizations like SGV, Shell, and EEI, Mr. Dominguez had a vision that went beyond personal achievement. In 1974, during the challenging period of Martial Law, armed with determination and a deep-rooted passion to contribute to the nation, he founded John Clements Consultants—a cornerstone in human resources and recruitment in the Philippines.
For those privileged to work under his leadership, Mr. Dominguez was more than just a boss; he was a father figure who shaped our careers and outlook on life. His lessons—excelling in every endeavor, never giving up despite adversity, and building meaningful relationships—formed the core of his leadership philosophy.
Mr. Dominguez had a rare gift for pushing people to their limits while recognizing their development needs. He demanded excellence in everything but never forgot the human element. He nurtured our potential, offering professional guidance and support for personal matters when needed. Rarely would you hear him offer direct praise, but his satisfaction was clear in how he recognized our efforts.
As we reflect on his legacy, it’s evident that Mr. Dominguez laid a strong foundation for John Clements. His vision, integrity, and commitment to excellence continue to guide us today. His leadership was about people, relationships, and the long-term impact of building something meaningful. Cady Dominguez may no longer be with us, but his spirit and vision live on in the work we do and in the countless lives he touched.” — Mario Biscocho, Senior Vice President & Managing Director, Enterprise Sales of John Clements Consultants.
A Mentor’s Wisdom
“As I reflect on my time with Leocadio J. Dominguez, or LJD as we fondly called him, I am filled with deep gratitude for the quiet wisdom he imparted. He was more than just a president; he was a mentor, father figure, coach, and leader who significantly shaped my professional career. This was my second job after graduating from college and passing the board exam, and I had the honor of being the company’s first real accountant. With much to learn, I found LJD to be a man of few words, yet his insights spoke volumes. His brilliance, especially in his analytical mind and uncanny knack for numbers, guided me with a steady hand.
LJD was a perfectionist who set high expectations for everyone. He trained me to pursue nothing less than precision—reports had to be neat, accurate, orderly, and timely, adhering to generally accepted accounting principles. Yet, despite his demanding nature, he never raised his voice. He offered advice and reminders in a fatherly manner, always gentle and calm. I recall how he would pass by my office to ask how things were going, showing genuine concern without expecting an answer. He was always well-groomed and every inch a gentleman—a silent leader, never loud or boastful.
In those early days, the company was finding its footing, but LJD had big dreams and a clear vision. He aspired to expand beyond HR and build a premier consulting firm. His faith and trust in me are things I will always cherish. Today, his legacy shines brightly; JCCI is thriving even through tough times. LJD planted the seed, and his vision continues to grow. Thank you, LJD!” — Rose Cadapan, Accounting Head of John Clements Consultants, Inc.
Building a Future with John Clements
“I had the privilege of being one of the pioneer employees of John Clements Consultants when LJD, as we fondly called him, welcomed me into the company in 1975. From that moment, I witnessed firsthand how he built the company from the ground up. His leadership was unparalleled, combining his keen eye for talent with an unwavering commitment to excellence. He recruited the best minds—Summa, Magna, and Cum Laude graduates—and under his guidance, we developed into high achievers.
LJD was more than just a boss; he was a world-class mentor. He believed in pushing us beyond our perceived limits, constantly assigning new roles and responsibilities to expand our skills. His vision extended beyond numbers; he brought in top-notch training programs from institutions like Harvard, ensuring we were always learning and excelling.
What stood out was his fatherly care. Whether visiting our teams overseas or guiding us through challenges, LJD made sure we were looked after. He often treated overseas staff to dinner or helped with grocery shopping, showing his genuine concern.
As we celebrate the 50-year legacy of John Clements, it’s impossible not to reflect on LJD’s profound impact on all of us. His leadership style focused not only on business success but also on developing people. Many of us consider ourselves “graduates of Cady’s Academy,” a testament to the invaluable training and mentorship we received.
LJD’s legacy lives on in the continued success of JCCI and the countless lives he touched. He didn’t just build a company—he built a future for all of us.” — Daphne Roldan, (retired) Vice President/Managing Director at EDI-Staffbuilders International Inc.
Join Us in Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence!
Join John Clements Consultants in celebrating 50 years of empowering individuals and organizations. As we reflect on our journey of growth, innovation, and community impact, we invite you to partner with us in building legacies and fostering talent. Together, let’s continue to uplift lives and create a sustainable future for the Philippines. Contact us today to explore how we can achieve success together!
