Managing Director
Richard Jay

Established in 1969, Richard Jay is Australia’s largest and most respected supplier of Commercial and Industrial laundry solutions.

What generation is your family business?
Our business was founded by my parents in 1969. I have 2 sisters currently involved in the business and 2 brothers who aren’t, and from time to time we have had children from the third generation working in the company – they range in age from 28 to 12 and at the moment we don’t have any of them employed with us.

How many family members in your business?
At present it is myself and my 2 sisters. We have 47 staff in 5 cities. One sister lives in QLD like me and the other is based in Adelaide.

What is your role in the family business?
I’m the managing director and have had that role since 2000.

Who is a major influence for you in the family business? Why?
Major influencers are a long list but probably our senior managers are the most important in helping me to run the business sustainably and profitably

What keeps you up at night?
Apart from unusual problems that occur from time to time, usually it is about continuous improvement – making the business better

What’s the key benefit of your FBA membership?
Networking with like minded individuals who are trying to improve not only their family businesses but also the business community.