ROI Influencers: Women In Business 2025
Melissa Orsen
SVP and Chief Strategy Officer
South Jersey Industries
Melissa Orsen has been a driving force in New Jersey’s business community, holding key leadership roles in utilities, economic development, and public service. In 2024, she made history as the first woman to chair the New Jersey Utilities Association in its 109-year history. She oversees strategic growth and operations as President of SJI Utilities and Senior VP at South Jersey Industries. Previously, Orsen was CEO of the NJ Economic Development Authority, managing more than $1 billion in economic initiatives. She also held leadership roles in state government, contributing to Superstorm Sandy recovery efforts and serving as Deputy Attorney General. A graduate of the University of Delaware and Widener University Delaware Law School, Orsen sits on the boards of the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey and Junior Achievement of NJ.
