The New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority (NJSEA) Board of Commissioners voted to appoint Jill Hirsch as president and CEO of the New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority, effective Jan. 23. The action follows Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s nomination of her to lead the NJSEA.
Her appointment comes as the sports authority prepares to host 2026 FIFA World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium in June and July. NJSEA also continues to play an important role in statewide economic development and major infrastructure projects.
“Jill Hirsch is an exceptional leader with years of experience in public service. As New Jersey prepares to host the FIFA World Cup this summer, I can think of no one better suited to lead the New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority than Jill,” said Sherrill. “I am confident that with Jill at its helm, the NJSEA will continue to showcase the best New Jersey has to offer while driving economic growth for our state and region.”
Hirsch brings to the role extensive experience in public service, intergovernmental coordination, and stakeholder engagement. Hirsch is an attorney who most recently served as statewide political director and co-lead of the coordinated campaign that helped elect Sherrill and Democrats up and down the ticket. Previously, she served as district director for Sherrill during her tenure in Congress and worked with state, local, and federal partners on policy and operational matters.
Prior to joining Sherrill’s congressional office, Hirsch spent her career serving in the critical role of advocating for the rights of children. As an attorney with the Legal Aid Society, she represented children in matters involving abuse, neglect, custody, guardianship, termination of parental rights, and juvenile delinquency. She later worked in the field of adoption, representing both birth mothers and families looking to adopt. In addition, she served on the Board of Directors of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) of Essex County.
“I am deeply honored by Governor Sherrill’s confidence in me to lead this vital, multi-faceted organization,” said Jill Hirsch, incoming president and CEO. “The NJSEA is a unique and exceptional public authority with an outsized impact on New Jersey’s economy and global profile. This is an especially exciting moment for our state, with the World Cup and the World Cup Final coming to New Jersey and creating a once-in-a-generation opportunity to drive jobs, tourism, and long-term investment while showcasing New Jersey to a global audience.”
NJSEA Board Chairman John Ballantyne lauded Hirsch, whom he said. “brings a rare combination of public sector experience, operational judgment, and collaborative leadership that will no doubt be an asset to the authority.”
To ensure an orderly transition, Nick Mammano will remain at the authority as a senior adviser through February.
