Jay Wilkins

Jay Wilkins was a prominent figure in the private equity industry who served as President of Harvest Partners until his untimely passing in February 2023 at the age of 46.12

Career at Harvest Partners

Jay joined Harvest Partners in 2010 as a Principal and steadily rose through the ranks1:

• In 2015, he was named Senior Managing Director of the firm56
• In 2021, he was appointed President of Harvest Partners1

Prior to joining Harvest, Jay held positions at other private equity firms:

• Principal at DLJ Merchant Banking Partners
• Principal at North Castle Partners
• Started his career at Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette1

Education and Background

Jay received his B.S. degree from Vanderbilt University, where he majored in human and organizational development.17 As a senior at Vanderbilt, he became interested in pursuing a career in finance.7

Leadership and Impact

As President of Harvest Partners, Jay was known for:

• Being a trusted mentor to many at the firm
• Inspiring excellence among his colleagues
• Leading charitable initiatives at Harvest
• Maintaining a legacy of personal philanthropy1

He was described as having a magnetic personality and was well-respected in the private equity community.1

Personal Life

Jay was married to McCartney Kay Wilkins and had a son named Jack.23 He was known for his devotion to his family and friends.3

Tragically, Jay Wilkins passed away unexpectedly on February 4, 2023, due to cardiac arrest.24 His untimely death at the age of 46 was mourned by colleagues, friends, and the broader private equity community, who remembered him as an exceptional leader, mentor, and friend.23