The Columbia Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) has appointed Jonathan Spampinato as its next president and CEO, effective June 15, 2026.
Spampinato succeeds longtime CEDC President and CEO F. Michael Tucker and will oversee the organization’s efforts to strengthen Columbia County’s economy through business support, workforce development, housing initiatives, and strategic investment projects.
CEDC Board Chairman Jim Calvin said Spampinato’s experience across economic development, sustainability, communications, and public affairs positioned him well to lead the organization’s next phase of growth.
“Jonathan brings an exceptional combination of leadership experience, strategic vision, and deep commitment to Columbia County,” Calvin said in a statement.
Spampinato brings more than 25 years of experience across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Most recently, he served as senior manager of global sustainability at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, where he worked on integrating environmental, social, and governance strategies across the company’s global operations.
He previously held leadership positions at Sustainability Accounting Standards Board and the IKEA Foundation, focusing on sustainability, stakeholder engagement, and economic development initiatives.
Earlier in his career, Spampinato worked within the Massachusetts state government, including roles at the Massachusetts Office of International Trade & Investment and the Office of Consumer Affairs & Business Regulation, where he gained experience in economic policy and regulatory affairs.
Based in Hudson, New York, Spampinato has also been involved in several local civic and development organizations. He currently serves as vice chair of the Hudson Industrial Development Agency and supports community groups including the Columbia Memorial Health Foundation and Friends of Park Square.
“I am honored and excited for the opportunity to serve as President and CEO of CEDC,” Spampinato said. “Columbia County is an extraordinary community with tremendous assets, opportunities, and potential.”
Located in New York’s Hudson Valley region, Columbia County has seen growing interest in sectors including advanced manufacturing, tourism, healthcare, logistics, agriculture, and small business development. The region has also experienced increased investment activity tied to housing demand and population growth from nearby metropolitan areas including New York City and Albany.
Outgoing CEO Tucker said the organization had built strong momentum through partnerships with local governments, businesses, and community organizations, adding that Spampinato was well-positioned to continue advancing those efforts.
In the coming months, Spampinato will work alongside CEDC staff, local governments, and regional partners to support a smooth leadership transition and maintain continuity across the organization’s economic development programs and initiatives.
