ROI Influencers Power List 2024: Economic Development — Christine Guhl-Sadovy
Christine Guhl-Sadovy
President
N.J. Board of Public Utilities
She has the unenviable task of replacing the late, great Joe Fiordaliso, but the knowledge and the demeanor to do it. This is a key role in the state.
ROI Influencers Power List 2024: Economic Development — Evan Weiss
Evan Weiss
CEO
Newark Alliance
Having a group of business eager to help the city has been a key for Newark. Weiss, a former official in Gov. Phil Murphy’s administration, oversees and drives that group.
ROI Influencers Power List 2024: Economic Development — Bryan Evans
Bryan Evans
Chairman
Trenton Downtown Association
The task is tough, but the prize is huge. He and his group are working to make Trenton an economic hub for all, not just a place for elected officials.
ROI Influencers Power List 2024: Economic Development — Tai Cooper
Tai Cooper
Chief community development officer
N.J. Economic Development Authority
Aims to advance strategies, research and data that will help drive equitable and inclusive economic development policies and programs, with a specific focus on social impact.
ROI Influencers Power List 2024: Economic Development — Michael Johnson
Michael Johnson
President
N.J. Innovation Institute
NJII is the standard for university-led entrepreneurial centers in the state. Johnson, a former founder, is the perfect choice to help guide next-generation companies.
ROI Influencers Power List 2024: Economic Development — Jorge Santos
Jorge Santos
Chief real estate development officer
N.J. Economic Development Authority
He heads the division at EDA that is specifically focused on real estate development and major projects. Among other duties, he will oversee the EDA’s continued...
ROI Influencers Power List 2024: Economic Development — Andrew Gross
Andrew Gross
Director of international innovation and partnerships
N.J. Economic Development Authority
He already has visited more than a half-dozen countries — pitching New Jersey — since taking the job last summer.
ROI Influencers Power List 2024: Economic Development — Jay Biggins
Jay Biggins
Executive managing director
BLS & Co.
He and his firm have long been one of the leading figures in corporate relocation site selection.
ROI Influencers Power List 2024: Economic Development — Dianna Houenou
Dianna Houenou
Chair
Cannabis Regulatory Commission
The cannabis industry still maintains its spot as a sector with enormous economic potential for the state. It’s just been slow going getting there.
ROI Influencers Power List 2024: Economic Development — Brady O’Connor
Brady O’Connor
Chief of staff
Choose New Jersey
He’s the reason so many of the Choose missions are so successful, as his behind-the-scenes efforts, as well as his fundraising prowess, ensures the right meetings take place with...
