Choose New Jersey gets a new CEO

Amy Herbold, a former deputy executive director of New Jersey Transit and senior counsel in the governor’s office, has been named CEO of Choose New Jersey, a non-profit coalition of business, labor, and civic leaders that promotes the state’s economic development.

A commissioner of Jersey City Housing Authority, Herbold also worked for the Restart and Recover Council for Tourism and Entertainment.

She succeeds Wesley Mathews, who stepped down late last year to join PSE&G.

The CEO post is traditionally picked by the governor, even though the state has no formal role in the operation.  Choose New Jersey traditionally picks up the tab when a governor travels internationally for trade missions.

“My Administration is committed to fostering an environment where innovation can flourish and where New Jerseyans can thrive,” said Sherrill. “Amy has a proven track record of advancing the growth of one of our state’s premier economic and tourist hubs. I am confident that her leadership will drive meaningful and substantial investments in New Jersey.”

The post had once been held by Michele Brown, a controversial confidant of Gov. Chris Christie.  Brown.  When Gov. Phil Murphy replaced her in 2018, Brown received $200,000 in severance and $150,000 bonuses.   Brown received $495,284, including $105,785 in salary, from the organization in the three-and-a-half months she spent with Choose New Jersey in 2018.

BINJE first reported Herbold’s appointment, which was made at the Choose New Jersey board meeting yesterday.