Santa Ana, CA – April 1, 2025 – Goodwill of Orange County is pleased to announce the appointment of Jesse Allen as the new Chief Operating Officer, Retail Division, effective today, April 1, 2025. Jesse will be succeeding Corrine Allen, who is retiring after an impressive 26-year tenure at Goodwill OC.
Jesse Allen brings a wealth of experience and a proven record of accomplishment in retail operations, real estate, and strategic leadership. With a Bachelor of Science in Finance, Real Estate & Law from California State Polytechnic University Pomona, Jesse has held several key positions throughout his career, including Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Real Estate Officer at 99 Cents Only Stores. His extensive background includes overseeing strategic planning and operational growth as well as managing real estate operations across multiple states.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jesse Allen to our leadership team,” said Nicole Suydam, President & CEO of Goodwill of Orange County. “His extensive experience and innovative approach to retail operations will be invaluable as we continue to expand our impact in the community. Jesse’s leadership will help us drive revenue growth, enhance customer experiences, and further our mission of connecting people with transformative career opportunities.”
In his new role at Goodwill OC, Jesse will be responsible for driving revenue to support the organization’s mission through the management of the donation goods retail operation that now includes 30 retail stores and donation sites. He will lead real estate strategy, donation acquisition, retail sales performance, mission integration, omnichannel retail management, and customer service, ensuring the mission of Goodwill OC is integrated within every facet of the retail operation.
Jesse’s leadership and strategic vision will be instrumental in growing Goodwill OC’s retail footprint across Orange County to help the organization meet its bold goal of Doubling Impact & Footprint over the next ten years. His commitment to workforce development and community engagement aligns perfectly with Goodwill OC’s mission to connect Orange County residents with transformative career opportunities.
“I am honored to join Goodwill Orange County and contribute to its mission of connecting people with career pathways and opportunities,” said Allen. “I look forward to working, collaborating and pushing boundaries with the dedicated team at Goodwill OC to drive retail growth and further amplify our reach and impact.” Goodwill OC extends its heartfelt gratitude to Corrine Allen for her dedicated service and significant contributions to over the past 26 years. Her leadership has been pivotal in shaping the organization’s success and impact in the community.
About Goodwill of Orange County
Goodwill of Orange County helps people achieve their goals through a journey of personal support, work experience and career development. Celebrating its centennial anniversary in 2024, Goodwill has connected hundreds of thousands of individuals to opportunity through quality training and education programs, supportive employment services for people with developmental and physical disabilities, on-site job coaching, community integration programs, veteran employment services, and more. As a nonprofit employment social enterprise, Goodwill operates a collection of 23 retail venues throughout Orange County, including five OC Goodwill Boutiques and its e-commerce platform ShopGoodwill.com, to support these transformative programs and services. To learn more about Goodwill of Orange County, visit ocgoodwill.org.
