TRENTON, N.J. (February 11, 2026) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced today that Sean Kennedy has been hired as the Authority’s new Chief of Staff and Chief External Affairs Officer. Kennedy’s first day at the NJEDA was Monday.

“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 NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss. “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.”

Kennedy will oversee the Communications, Events & Marketing, Government Affairs & Policy, and International Innovation teams, helping ensure the NJEDA’s brand, messaging, and external presence are aligned with the Authority’s strategic priorities. In his role, Kennedy will serve as the NJEDA’s primary point of contact with the Governor’s Office, the Legislature, local governments, and other key stakeholders.

“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,” said Kennedy. “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.”

Most recently, Kennedy served as a Government Affairs Advisor at Connell Foley. Prior to that, he was Director of CGI’s New Jersey State and Local business. Sean has also held leadership roles in higher education, including Vice President of Government Affairs and External Partnerships at Rowan University and Director of Government and External Relations at Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine, as well as several positions in state government, ranging from campaign leadership to Associate Executive Director overseeing communications for the New Jersey Senate Majority Office.

Kennedy succeeds Emma Corrado, who recently left the NJEDA to join the Governor’s Office as Deputy Chief Operating Officer.

About the NJEDA

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy. Through partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, the NJEDA creates and implements initiatives to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in the State and strengthen New Jersey’s long-term economic competitiveness.

To learn more about NJEDA resources for businesses, call NJEDA Customer Care at 844-965-1125 or visit https://www.njeda.gov and follow @NewJerseyEDA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.