Title: Chief Executive Officer and Director of Operations
Company: Southern Oak Millworks LLC
Location: Gainesville, Georgia, United States
Anthony L. Cantafio, Chief Executive Officer at Southern Oak Millworks LLC, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Executives for dedication, achievements and leadership in High-End Custom Carpentry and Interior Design.
Mr. Cantafio has established himself as a leading expert in high-end custom carpentry and interior design, with a career spanning 15 years. In 2025, he began serving as the director of operations, where he managed day-to-day business functions, optimized workflow processes and maintained quality control across all projects. Mr. Cantafio’s operational oversight was critical in establishing efficient systems that support both creative and technical excellence.
Today, Mr. Cantafio serves as the organization’s chief executive officer, where he has been instrumental in shaping the company’s vision and operations. In his leading role, he has overseen strategic growth initiatives, leveraging his expertise to deliver bespoke carpentry solutions and elevate the firm’s reputation within the industry. Additionally, Mr. Cantafio is the head of product and client solutions at Southern Oak Millworks LLC. In this capacity, he has directed the development of innovative products and services tailored to client needs, ensuring that each project reflects the highest standards of craftsmanship and design. His leadership in this area has contributed significantly to the company’s success and its ability to meet the evolving demands of discerning clients.
Following high school, Mr. Cantafio earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Young Harris College in 2010. He also completed coursework at Tri-County Community College and the Art Institute of Atlanta, Georgia, broadening his technical skills and artistic sensibilities. Mr. Cantafio also holds several certifications that have enhanced his professional capabilities. He earned a certification from the California Real Estate School Program through Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, BHH Affiliates, LLC, HomeServices of America, Inc., a certification in real estate investment from BRRRR Invest Academy, and a certification in real estate mentorship from Cardone University Cardone Enterprises.
Mr. Cantafio’s civic involvement extends through associations with organizations such as St. Benedict’s of Johns Creek and Hillsborough County Medical Association, Inc., reflecting a broad commitment to service beyond professional obligations.
In addition to his business pursuits, Mr. Cantafio is an author whose 2025 publication, “Addiction: The Disease of Choice,” draws on personal experience to raise awareness of substance abuse issues. Proceeds from his book have been donated to local causes supporting recovery efforts.
Throughout his career, Mr. Cantafio has demonstrated a commitment to professional development and industry engagement. He is an active member of several organizations, including Revenue Generating Activities, BRRRR Invest Academy and Grant Cardone Real Estate Club, among others. These affiliations have provided Mr. Cantafio with valuable networking opportunities and access to cutting-edge industry knowledge.
Mr. Cantafio’s journey into his profession began at age 11 when he started working in construction alongside his stepfather. This early exposure fostered a passion for building and craftsmanship that would shape his future endeavors. After completing high school, he pursued various trades, including carpentry, welding and cooking, while attending colleges and trade schools for short periods. Mr. Cantafio’s work gained deeper meaning following personal struggles with addiction, and recovery inspired him to use his skills and businesses as vehicles for positive change within his community.
Mr. Cantafio attributes his achievements to strong family support, particularly from his grandparents, overcoming personal adversity, a dedication to hands-on learning and an enduring desire to give back to others. These influences have shaped not only his career but also his approach to leadership and service.
Looking ahead, Mr. Cantafio is dedicated to expanding his business ventures by acquiring underperforming properties through Southern Oak Holdings while utilizing Southern Oak Ventures for property management improvements. His strategy involves revitalizing neglected buildings efficiently by leveraging direct permitting authority, thereby expediting community transformation without bureaucratic delays. Mr. Cantafio intends to replicate successful models from Tampa, Florida, in other cities, such as Atlanta, to make meaningful contributions wherever opportunities arise.
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