Executive Leadership
PRESIDENT & CEO JILL HIRSCH, ESQ.
Jill Hirsch, Esq., is an established leader with extensive experience in public service, intergovernmental coordination, and stakeholder engagement. Her background in public sector work and collaborative leadership informs her strong focus on accountability and commitment to the public good. A distinguished attorney, President Hirsch is the first woman to serve as the Authority’s top executive. Her appointment comes as the NJSEA continues to play a central role in statewide economic development, major infrastructure projects and preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a once-in-a-generation opportunity to drive jobs, tourism, and long-term investment while showcasing New Jersey to a global audience. Read more…
CHIEF OF STAFF LAURIE G. EWING
Laurie G. Ewing brings extensive experience in leadership, finance, operations, and public service to the Authority. Previously, Laurie served as Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer for Mikie Sherrill for Governor, and as Operations Director for Mikie Sherrill for Congress during four successful US House campaigns. Before her work in campaign operations, Laurie worked for two decades in the healthcare sector, with leadership roles in healthcare consulting and public health, including almost ten years with Ipsos and as a researcher at various public health organizations. Through the years, Laurie has built a reputation as a trusted leader with strong judgment, operational discipline, and the ability to manage complex teams in demanding environments.
Board of Commissioners
JOHN BALLANTYNE, CHAIRMAN
Chairman John Ballantyne formerly served as Executive Secretary-Treasurer (EST) from 2015 to 2018 … Read more
JOSEPH BUCKELEW, VICE CHAIRMAN
Vice Chairman Joseph Buckelew, born in New Brunswick, New Jersey resides in Manasquan … Read more
AARON BINDER, STATE TREASURER
Aaron Binder is currently serving as New Jersey State Treasurer … Read more
ANTHONY ABRANTES
Anthony Abrantes is an accomplished professional currently serving as the Assistant Executive ,… Read more
JOHN J. DUTHIE
John Duthie (Duh-theē) currently serves as the Political Director/Administrator for three…Read more
ARMANDO B. FONTOURA
Sheriff Armando Fontoura is responsible for operating the largest and most active…. Read more
GAIL B. GORDON, ESQ.
Gail B. Gordon Esq. is a well-recognized and respected attorney, effective local advocate, and business professional. Through her …. Read more
DANIEL GUMBLE
Daniel Gumble is the Business Manager of I.B.E.W. Local 164, which represents over 3,000 expert electricians in Bergen, Essex,… Read more
WOODY KNOPF
Woody Knopf, former Chairman of Knopf Automotive Parts, was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1948. …. Read more
THOMAS MULLAHEY
Thomas Mullahey is a seasoned athletic director and public servant. Through his work as a Rutherford Borough Councilman,… Read more
