Her journey began in the New England region of the US, working for the University of Maine System and later becoming a key member of the executive team for United States Senator Susan Collins in Washington, D.C.
After relocating to Adelaide, her work establishing the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute's inaugural fundraising strategy and serving as State Manager for Philanthropy Australia gave her unique insights into the challenges donors face and the opportunities for making generosity more impactful.
In 2018, Kay co-founded the Burton Foundation with her husband, Julian, where she experienced these challenges firsthand – from finding the right opportunities to building connections with like-minded donors. This inspired her to create the SA Philanthropy Network, an organisation designed to make giving easier, more accessible, and more effective for everyone.
Today, Kay leads a movement to foster a thriving culture of philanthropy in South Australia. Through personalised guidance, the innovative Funded platform, and dynamic networking events, the SA Philanthropy Network is helping donors maximise their impact and shape the future of giving in the state.