The New Jersey Economic Development Authority tapped Sean Kennedy as the authority’s new chief of staff and chief external affairs officer, the NJEDA announced Wednesday.
Kennedy is tasked with overseeing the NJEDA’s communications, events & marketing, government affairs & policy, and international innovation teams. Kennedy will serve as the authority’s primary liaison with the governor’s office, the Legislature, and local governments, the announcement said.
“I’m thrilled to join the NJEDA, which has been at the forefront of driving meaningful economic growth by investing in residents, businesses, and key strategic sectors throughout New Jersey,” Kennedy said in a release. “I look forward to working with the entire NJEDA team, as well as our partners across the public and private sectors, to advance the Authority’s mission and expand its impact across the state.”
Kennedy last worked as a governmental affairs adviser at Connell Foley and has held roles at Rowan University and the New Jersey Senate Majority Office.
“Sean brings deep experience in public-sector leadership, stakeholder engagement, and organizational strategy, and I’m excited for the perspective he will bring to the NJEDA,” said Evan Weiss, NJEDA’s CEO. “Sean will play a critical role at the Authority as we work to support Governor Sherrill’s mission to grow our economy, bolster innovation, cut red tape, and bring down costs for families across the state.”
The NJEDA board approved Weiss as its CEO last month. The NJEDA is primarily tasked with driving economic support and creating high-quality jobs.
Kennedy succeeds Emma Corrado, who left to work as the governor’s deputy chief operating officer.
