Evan Weiss officially took over as Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) on January 29, following approval by the Authority’s Board and a recommendation from Governor Mikie Sherrill earlier this month.
Weiss steps into the role at a time when New Jersey is seeking to strengthen its economic competitiveness while addressing rising costs for businesses and families. Governor Sherrill said Weiss brings a track record of aligning government, industry and community stakeholders to drive growth and expand opportunity.
“I’m excited to hit the ground running and work to create new jobs by expanding opportunity, supporting businesses of all sizes, building up strategic innovation industries, and strengthening communities across the state,” said incoming NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Evan Weiss.
“It’s an honor to return to public service and lead the NJEDA in its next chapter. I’m grateful to Governor Sherrill, Chairman O’Toole, and the NJEDA Board for entrusting me with this great responsibility, and I look forward to working with our staff and partners in the public and private sectors to build an economy that works for everyone.”
“Evan Weiss understands how to bring government, industry, and local communities together to expand opportunity and deliver real solutions that lower costs and drive economic development,” Sherrill said. “I am confident that Evan’s leadership will strengthen the NJEDA’s role as a catalyst for growth.”
Weiss most recently served as President and CEO of the Newark Alliance, a private sector-led economic development organization focused on inclusive growth. Before that, he was Senior Advisor for Finance and Major Projects to Governor Phil Murphy, overseeing the deployment of more than $10 billion in federal stimulus funding. The capital supported renewable energy, transit, affordable housing and major infrastructure initiatives, including the Gateway Project.
NJEDA Chairman Terry O’Toole said Weiss’s experience positions him to advance the state’s economic agenda. Weiss said his priorities include job creation, support for businesses of all sizes and investment in strategic innovation industries.
The NJEDA is New Jersey’s principal economic development agency, responsible for financing, tax incentives and partnerships that drive statewide growth and long-term competitiveness.
