Biography

Jay Diaz has been successful business owner as part of the Express family for nearly a decade as the Meriden, Conn., Franchisee. During that time, he has expanded his business with a second location in East Hartford, Conn., achieved Circle of Excellence seven consecutive years, with the last six reaching the Bronze level (2017-2022) averaging over $10 million in sales. He graduated as part of the inaugural Express Leadership Academy group and continues to actively participate in alumni educational opportunities. Jay leads the Specialized Recruiting Group where he specializes in Skilled Manufacturing, Light Industrial Leadership and Executive Administrative Professionals positions. Since 2012 Jay and his team have placed over 7,000 people into full time positions. In his community, Jay was awarded the Community Relations award in 2018 after establishing a mentoring program for at-risk youth that introduces them to a variety of companies, teaching interview skills and opening doors to opportunities that many would otherwise not have. Additionally, he provided time, travel, and resources to help the rebuilding process in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria ravaged the area. He financially supports, operates and serves at The Grace Place, a community food pantry serving 700 families a month and he is the founder and financial supporter of an afterschool center for children ages 6-18 at the Chamberlin Heights in Meriden. Jay has also earned 3 United States Congressional Recognitions. Prior to Express, Jay served in the United States Marines for 22 years, completing tours in Desert Storm, Somalia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. “Jay loves people, giving back, fixing anything broken and impacts and empowers his community” Christopher Murphy, Unites States Senator