Big Brothers Big Sisters of NE Florida (BBBSNEF) announced that Capt. Jay Coles (USN Retired) has joined the organization as its Senior Vice President of Operations. In his new role, Jay reports to CEO Warren Grymes with responsibility for the daily operations of the agency and its 29 employees. Headquartered in Philadelphia with a network of nearly 400 agencies across the country, BBBS serves a quarter million children annually operating in all 50 states and 12 countries globally. Established 95 years ago, BBBSNEF is the 27th largest agency in the federation and the fourth largest in the state of Florida.
Prior to joining BBBSNEFL Jay served our country as an active duty Navy Officer for 25 years achieving the rank of Captain. Jay has served in a variety of operational assignments including Commanding Officer of U.S. National Intelligence in Kosovo, Director of the Navy’s Foreign Liaison Office and as the Navy Legislative Liaison to the United States Congress.
Over the years Jay has volunteered for numerous local groups including civic organizations, youth sports, scouts, and supporting youth in a local housing project. Jay holds a Bachelor’s degree in history from Vanderbilt University, a Master of Public Administration degree from Troy University and a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College.
Sterling Search & Consulting, a retained executive search firm based in Jacksonville, FL, assisted BBBSNEF in the recruitment and selection of Jay Coles.