NJEDA Names Kennedy Chief of Staff & Chief External Affairs Officer

On Feb 11, 2026

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) announced today that Sean Kennedy has been hired as the New Jersey Economic Development 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. “He 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 NJEDA’s strategic priorities. In his role, he 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. He 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.

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