With a longtime athletic background and coaching career, Jay Marks knows firsthand that teamwork is essential. In 2017, he and his wife Chabry invested in two properties and provided safe homes for others, as their interest in larger projects and establishing a business for their children grew.
Hurricane Ida brought requests for roof replacements and renovations along with stories about out-of-state contractors exploiting Louisianans, inspiring the couple to help fill the gap.
AT A GLANCE
Top executives: Jay Marks, CEO
Phone: 985.703.8518
Address: 105 St. Phillip St., Donaldsonville, LA 70346
Website: jcmarks.net
“I take pride in clients being able to trust me, but it was challenging to commit to projects while coaching at Tulane and receiving a regular paycheck,” says Marks. “I knew that to prioritize clients, I had to fully commit.”
The next Sunday’s sermon inspired them to progress. When their pastor said to step out on faith and let God handle the rest if anyone felt stuck or was looking to start a new career, Marks’ wife told him, “That’s all the confirmation you need.”
In addition to his bachelor’s, master’s and MBA, Marks began to pursue small business certifications from Louisiana Economic Development, safety and building certifications, and Goldman Sachs’ 10,000 Small Business Program.
He aims to build relationships with corporate companies and become a federal contractor, consistently attending conferences, including those hosted by the Army Corps of Engineers, National 8(a), and the Department of Defense, and participating in local organizations including the Ascension Parish Chamber of Commerce, Donaldsonville Rotary Club, American Subcontractors Association of Greater Baton Rouge and the Associated Builders and Contractors.
“In coaching, my main mission was to win the game with no injuries,” says Marks. “Numerous moving parts are required to win one game—very similar to construction. Being a cohesive team player is crucial to accomplishing the mission: providing clients with the best possible service and products.”
Marks has enjoyed the smiles of families after their home renovations, commercial clients’ referrals, and being invited to the centennial celebration of Donaldsonville’s renovated St. Catherine Church.
He is also achieving more family time. “I’m blessed to have breakfast with my wife, watch my son board the bus, take my daughter to school, and chaperone field trips throughout the year. It is worth every second.”
