About:

Jon Norris is a senior business leader with over 25 years of experience driving growth, transformation, and leadership across industries, including fintech, investment management, entrepreneurship, and operational turnarounds.

Throughout his career as a COO, General Manager, and founder, Jon has led teams, rebuilt businesses, and navigated high pressure environments across global markets. But beyond the boardroom, Jon discovered a different calling — mentoring young people.

Over the years, friends’ children and teenagers naturally gravitated towards him. Drawn by his straightforward outlook, life experience, and calm guidance, these informal conversations often turned into strong bonds. Parents began to notice real changes. Their children showed more confidence, clearer thinking, and a shift in attitude after spending time with Jon. Many encouraged him to take this further, often saying, “You should be doing this professionally.”

That consistent feedback planted the seed for The Forge Project — a programme designed to equip young people with the mindset, resilience, and real world skills that traditional education leaves behind.

Jon understands that success in life is not just about academics or talent. It is about knowing how to think clearly, lead yourself, communicate with confidence, and handle challenges when they come because they always do.

Whether guiding a young person through a tough decision or helping them discover their potential, Jon’s approach is honest, supportive, and focused on practical growth. He believes every teenager deserves the tools to navigate life with resilience, confidence, and purpose.