Sean Kennedy joined the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) as Chief of Staff and Chief External Affairs Officer in February 2026. In this role, he oversees communications, events and marketing, government affairs and policy, and international innovation, ensuring the Authority’s brand, messaging, and external engagement are closely aligned with the NJEDA’s strategic priorities.

Sean serves as the NJEDA’s primary liaison to the Governor’s Office, the Legislature, local governments, and other key stakeholders, helping advance coordinated economic development initiatives across the state.

Prior to joining the NJEDA, Sean was a Government Affairs Advisor in the Regulatory Affairs and Compliance Group at Connell Foley. He previously served as Director of New Jersey State and Local Business for CGI, responsible for successful delivery of CGI’s commitments to state and local clients, sector business strategy and planning, and P&L ownership. Before joining CGI, Sean served as Vice President of Government Affairs and External Partnerships at Rowan University and as Director of Government and External Relations at the Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine, where he helped advance major institutional initiatives, including the establishment of New Jersey’s first veterinary school.

Sean’s public sector background also includes extensive experience in campaign leadership and multiple roles in state government, including Associate Executive Director and head of communications for the New Jersey Senate Majority Office. In addition, Sean has led business development efforts for prominent civil engineering firms in New Jersey.

Sean currently serves as Chairman of the Rowan College of Burlington County Board of Trustees and President of the Burlington County Board of Taxation. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from Rowan University and a Juris Doctor from Rutgers Law School.