Jr Ford

JR Ford is a seasoned entrepreneur and executive with extensive experience in the mental health sector and business operations. As the Founder and CEO of Payken since September 2022 and the President and Founder of Blackwise LLC since September 2016, JR Ford focuses on identifying and investing in minority-led start-ups, managing operations, and consulting on mental health initiatives. Notably, JR Ford established Houston's first privately-owned Non-LMHA agency, expanded mental health agency participation through policy improvements, and launched four successful mental healthcare businesses generating significant annual revenues. Previous roles include President of S.S. Of M.A. LLC and Fire Service Manager at Cintas Corporation, complemented by a Project Coordinator position at Siemens Building Technologies. JR Ford holds a degree from Davidson College, where education was completed from 2000 to 2004.