Jay is passionate about young people, their families and their communities. He as worked in the not-for-profit sector for over 20 years.  Jay's passion led him to 24-7 YouthWork where he served as National Director for 13 years, establishing 24-7 YouthWork as the largest school-based youth work service in New Zealand. His early career involved eight years of youth work at Hornby High and Riccarton High.

Currently, as the Founder of E Tū Tāngata, Jay is leading a movement to transform Aotearoa by tackling tall poppy syndrome and making strategic contributions on boards that support young people.