Jay Jordan is a nationally recognized public policy expert, political campaign specialist, organizer, and entrepreneur whose work spans criminal justice reform, public safety advocacy, and economic development. He has contributed to advancing innovative policy solutions, supporting high-impact campaigns, and scaling organizations and initiatives that foster safer, stronger communities. Today he serves as the Vice President of Community Engagement for REFORM Alliance. 

As the CEO of the Alliance for Safety and Justice, Jordan managed an expansive operation with an annual budget of over $30 million, directing a staff of 100, and collaborating with more than 200 contractors. His consultancy work with organizations nationwide emphasized diversifying development efforts and cultivating trauma-informed workplace cultures—particularly essential in challenging operational landscapes.

Early in his career, Jordan drew from his own post-incarceration experience to create The First50, a teen-focused diversion program in Stockton, California, self-funded through a vending machine business he started while incarcerated. TheFirst50’s success garnered Jay several accolades, including the American Red Cross’s Hero of the Year award, as well as local, state, and Congressional recognitions.

Jordan’s community-focused leadership included serving as co-chair of the Juvenile Justice Committee of the Boys and Men of Color Alliance, board membership with the African-American Chamber of Commerce of San Joaquin County, and becoming the first individual on parole to serve as a congressional Field Director—working on Congressman Jerry McNerney’s reelection campaign.

Despite challenges tied to his past conviction, Jordan continued to drive innovative approaches to community development while working with L.A. Voice PICO and as an early advocate for the Los Angeles Campaign to Ban the Box. He co-founded Faith in Action, promoting community-driven, asset-based strategies for neighborhood improvement.

By 2015, Jordan joined Californians for Safety and Justice. He spearheaded initiatives like #TimeDone and Sunsets, and championed legislative efforts (AB 1331, AB 1076, AB 145, SB 731) that transformed California’s expungement process, ultimately helping clear over 80 million records. Jay’s collaborative endeavors with community leaders and artists underscored his unwavering commitment to meaningful, systemic change.

Under Jordan’s leadership at Californians for Safety and Justice, more than 50 successful campaigns were launched across eight states. These efforts positively impacted over 9 million lives, reallocating $1.2 billion toward workforce development, victim services, and educational opportunities.

Jordan’s focus is not solely on justice reform but on building economically sustainable public safety strategies. He advocates for responsible use of tax dollars to foster environments where businesses thrive and families grow. Most recently, he founded the Center for Social and Economic Good, a social impact holding company dedicated to achieving UN sustainability goals.

Alongside these professional achievements, Jordan and his wife, Carmen Perez, co-founded Perez-Jordan LLC, advising organizations, influencers, and activists on advocacy and strategic initiatives. Jay’s life is enriched by his two sons, Damacio Amare and Jerron Marcelo, and his four beloved toy poodles, King, Queen, Princess, and Prince.