Its a family affair with Jason Russell

• November 24 2019
• http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/sunday-finance/its-a-family-affair-with-jason-russell_180474

In 2004 Jason RUSSELLl began working in his family's business, Pier 1 restaurant, bar and nightclub in Montego Bay, after completing his college education in the United States. The business was founded by his father Robert Russell and then eventually managed by his older siblings Robin and Peta-Gay before transitioning to the stewardship of himself and his sister Anna-Kaye.

Pier 1 has become somewhat of an institution in Jamaica's second city through its incredible longevity as one of Montego Bay's most successful entertainment hotspots since 1988. The family has also been heavily involved in Montego Bay's entertainment culture for decades being co-founders of the city's mega-musical events, Jazz Festival and Sumfest, which have seen numerous high profile celebrities attracting thousands of patrons over the years to unforgettable performances.

Russell has worked in all these ventures including the family's most recent enterprise, the Deja Resort on the Hip Strip in Montego Bay. But Russell's primary role has been to run Pier 1. It has been a rewarding job that has provided the 41-year-old married father of three with a wealth of valuable experiences.

Q10: How has working with family influenced your view of what family means?

RUSSELL: Family for me means all hands on deck. You share in the pain and you share in the pleasure. Family in business for me means you don't go home at night until everybody is safe and sound and the job is done. That is something you don't usually get in a non-family atmosphere. People and individuals have their own goals. In a family business the goals are more aligned so you know if this needs to be accomplished then everybody must stay back and nobody is left behind. That is encouraging. You always know that people have your back. You always know that your goals are the same. It helps with motivation.