Brent Reaves

Brent is the president of Smokey John’s, Inc. and is heavily involved in the restaurant’s daily business operations. Brent has been a part of the food service industry for over 20 years. From bussing tables to running large catering operations, Brent has done it all.

He began his career at the age of six when he enjoyed spending time with his father at the restaurant. He loved being around the people, the food, and most importantly, the video games. The restaurant had “Galaga” and “Ms. Pac-Man,” after all.

In order to have money for arcade games, his dad taught him how to refill the customer’s tea and water glasses for tips. His love for both the food service industry and video games was born that day, and from there he learned how to wash dishes, bus tables, be a block man (meat carver), and even coordinate catered events.

After graduating from high school, Brent enrolled in the School of Hospitality at the University of North Texas, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in hotel & restaurant management in December 1999 and joined the family business immediately.

Today, Brent develops growth strategies for Smokey John’s Bar-B-Que & Home Cooking. He’s expanding the brand in order to create opportunities for his family as well as for those looking to develop their skills or who simply need a second chance.

Juan Reaves Bio

Juan is the Vice President of Smokey John’s Inc. He first worked in the restaurant in the summer before fourth grade and has been in and around the food service industry for most of his life.

Born and raised in Dallas, Juan attended Catholic elementary and high school. Juan attended Southwestern University in Georgetown, TX and graduated with a degree in Business and Communication in 1993.

Upon graduation, he pursued a career in sports marketing and media with Streetball Partners in Dallas, Geneva, Switzerland, and Rutherford, New Jersey. After almost six years he left Streetball for a brief stint at another event marketing firm in New Jersey.

In 1999 Juan moved back to Dallas to work in the family business where he remained until 2006, when he left to pursue his own business ventures. In 2011 he re-joined his brother Brent at Smokey John’s Inc. and helped build Smokey John’s into a thriving restaurant, catering and concessions company. He completed the SBA Emerging Leaders Program in 2016 and continues to strive to help build the Smokey John’s Brand.

Juan is married to Pauline Reaves. They have two children Joshua (16) and Julia (10). When he has free time, he enjoys cooking, trying new restaurants, watching sports and traveling with his family.