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Choose New Jersey Names Amy Herbold as New CEO

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  Published in Politics and Government on Saturday, March 28th 2026 at 2:41 GMT by NorthJersey.com
      Locale: UNITED STATES

NEWARK, N.J. - A new chapter begins for Choose New Jersey, the state's premier business advocacy organization, with the appointment of Amy Herbold as its new President and CEO, effective April 1st, 2026. This transition marks the end of a significant 17-year tenure for Maria Riordan, who steps down leaving a legacy of growth and a strengthened position for New Jersey in the national economic landscape. The announcement, made today, Saturday, March 28th, 2026, signals a commitment to continued economic vitality and a proactive approach to attracting and retaining businesses within the state.

Herbold isn't a newcomer to the complexities of New Jersey's business environment. Her extensive background in public policy, corporate affairs, and crucially, economic development, positions her well to navigate the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities that lie ahead. As Senior Vice President of Government and Public Affairs for Hovde Companies, a national real estate development firm, she gained firsthand experience in the intricate process of bringing large-scale projects to fruition, understanding the regulatory hurdles and the need for collaborative partnerships between the private and public sectors. Prior to Hovde Companies, her leadership roles at both the New Jersey Business & Industry Association and the New Jersey State Chamber of Commerce further honed her skills in advocating for business interests and fostering a favorable climate for economic growth.

The appointment comes at a pivotal time for New Jersey. While the state boasts strategic advantages - a highly educated workforce, proximity to major markets like New York City and Philadelphia, and a robust transportation infrastructure - it also faces ongoing hurdles including high costs of doing business, property taxes, and a complex regulatory framework. Choose New Jersey, under Riordan's guidance, has demonstrably worked to address these concerns, presenting a compelling case for investment to both domestic and international companies. Herbold's task will be to build upon this foundation, innovating strategies to enhance New Jersey's competitiveness.

Speaking on the appointment, Brian Sampson, Chairman of the Board for Choose New Jersey, highlighted Herbold's comprehensive understanding of the state's economic landscape. "Amy brings a wealth of experience... she understands the challenges and opportunities facing New Jersey businesses," he stated. This acknowledgment underscores the organization's desire for a leader who can immediately hit the ground running, informed by both policy expertise and practical, real-world business experience.

Riordan's departure is not a complete severance from the organization. She will remain engaged as an advisor, providing valuable insights and mentorship during the transition period. This continuity is a smart move, ensuring a smooth handover of knowledge and relationships that are critical to Choose New Jersey's ongoing success. Her 17 years at the helm have been marked by a consistent effort to position New Jersey as a premier destination for investment, focusing on key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, technology, and logistics.

Herbold, in accepting the position, expressed her enthusiasm for the role and acknowledged the groundwork laid by Riordan. "I am honored to join Choose New Jersey and to build upon Maria Riordan's remarkable legacy," she said, emphasizing her commitment to fostering economic vitality within the state. This suggests a continuation of the existing strategic priorities, while also hinting at a potential for fresh perspectives and innovative approaches.

The future success of Choose New Jersey under Herbold's leadership will likely depend on several key factors. These include the ability to forge strong relationships with state and local policymakers, attract and retain a skilled workforce, and address the lingering concerns about the cost of doing business in New Jersey. Furthermore, adapting to the evolving demands of the 21st-century economy - including the rise of remote work, the increasing importance of sustainability, and the rapid pace of technological change - will be crucial. Expect to see a continued focus on promoting New Jersey's strengths in key growth sectors, as well as initiatives designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. The organization's non-partisan approach will be vital in building consensus and advocating for policies that benefit all businesses, regardless of size or industry.