Gov. Phil Murphy announced Tuesday that Eric Brophy will succeed Joe Kelley as deputy chief of staff for economic growth, effective next Monday.
Brophy will manage economic affairs at the Governor’s Office after serving as a senior adviser for economic growth and as executive director of the Educational Facilities Authority. Kelley, in line to become a commissioner on the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, will depart the administration to pursue a private-sector opportunity.
Murphy made the announcement during his speech at the ReNew Jersey Business Summit & Expo at Harrah’s in Atlantic City.
“I’m certain that many of you have already worked with Eric, in one way or another,” he said. “And if you have not yet, you’re in for a real treat.”
Prior to his service in the Murphy administration, Brophy was a partner at Diegnan & Brophy LLC, where he practiced municipal law and civil litigation. He is a graduate of the University of Scranton and Seton Hall University School of Law.
“It is an incredible honor to serve the residents of New Jersey, and I am ecstatic to be able to continue that service as deputy chief of staff,” he said.
Kelley offered praise for Brophy.
“Eric Brophy knows how to get big projects done,” he said. “He has a unique blend of private- and public-sector legal experience, as well as experience in government financing large-scale real estate transactions. I know he will serve as an invaluable adviser to the governor.”
Murphy thanked Kelley for his service to the administration. Kelley has been with Murphy since he was a candidate for the job.
“Throughout Joe’s service as deputy chief of staff, New Jersey’s economy has grown stronger, fairer and more inclusive,” Murphy said. “Joe’s expertise proved instrumental to New Jersey’s economic restart and recovery from COVID-19, and his vision has helped guide our efforts to advance transit-oriented development, generate thousands of good-paying jobs and attract the companies of tomorrow to New Jersey.
“I wish Joe the best of luck in his future endeavors and look forward to all that Eric will help New Jersey accomplish as our internationally competitive economy continues to expand.”
