Wells Winegar, a highly experienced state and local government leader in New Jersey, has been named executive director of the New Jersey Policy Institute.
NJPI is a 501(c3) nonprofit that aims to bring together policymakers, business leaders, nonprofits, lawmakers, elected officials, grassroots advocates and others to focus on meaningful policy solutions regarding the major issues facing Garden State families — including education, the economy, energy, and more.
“We’re thrilled to have someone with Wells’s tremendous experience and background at the helm of NJPI,” founder and president Rosemary Becchi said. “At both the local level and in state government, Wells is a proven leader with an in-depth understanding of the unique issues facing New Jersey’s families and taxpayers. He shares in our mission to develop innovative policy solutions to help the Garden State thrive.”
According to NJPI, the organization’s focus for 2025 is on the following three issue areas:
- Education: Excellence, opportunity and options;
- Economy: Community, economic and workforce development, taxation, accessible housing;
- Energy: Supply, affordability and reliability.
Winegar brings a wealth of leadership experience in state and local government to the role.
As deputy township administrator for Bridgewater Township, he led key municipal functions, including public relations, grants management, constituent services and information technology, ensuring efficient operations and community engagement.
Prior to this role, Winegar served in the administration of former Gov. Chris Christie, where he held a series of operational and policy-focused positions in the governor’s office. He later became chief of staff and legislative liaison for the N.J. department of banking and insurance, advising the commissioner and the governor’s office on strategic initiatives. In this role, he managed regulatory approvals, legislative analysis, and public communications.
Winegar said he is eager to take on the new role.
“I’m looking forward to working with NJPI’s policy team, elected officials, business leaders, and grassroots advocates at every level in helping our state confront its long-standing challenges,” he said. “I strongly believe we can develop bipartisan solutions to our complex issues, ensuring a bright and prosperous future for the next generation of New Jerseyans.”
Winegar holds a Bachelor of Arts from Hartwick College and a Master of Public Administration from Rutgers University.
