News
March 31, 2016Andrew Kennedy Named Next President & CEO of the Center for Economic Growth
The Center for Economic Growth (CEG)’s Board of Directors has selected Andrew Kennedy as the new President & CEO of the Center for Economic Growth, beginning July 1, 2016. Kennedy will take over the helm of the regional economic and business development organization from Michael Hickey, who has been serving as the Interim President and CEO since July 1, 2015 following F. Michael Tucker’s departure. Hickey will remain involved with the organization during the leadership transition, and will continue to serve on the Board as Immediate Past Chair.
“With over 50 applicants, the four finalists for the position exhibited tremendous strength in economic development; we were very pleased with the pool and extremely pleased with our choice,” said Laura Schweitzer, Ph.D., University at Albany Vice President for Health Sciences and Chair of the CEG Board and Search Committee. “What impressed us about Andrew was his record of success in creative and strategic economic development and his passion for the continued economic health and advancement of the Region. I very much look forward to working with him,” she added.
The Center for Economic Growth is the premier regional economic and business development organization dedicated to growing the economy of New York State’s Capital Region through job creation, by facilitating growth of existing businesses, attraction of new businesses and skilled talent, retention and development of our skilled workforce, and through fostering an innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“I look forward to joining CEG in its mission to promote business growth, create jobs and spur investment here in the Capital Region – and would like to thank the CEG Board of Directors for their support,” said Kennedy. “CEG’s talented team, partners and investors have made incredible progress advancing economic development within the 8 county region, and I am honored to continue that work and lead the organization into its next phase. Importantly, I want to thank Governor Cuomo for the opportunity to serve in his administration where it has been a privilege to support his economic development accomplishments throughout New York State”.
“CEG has created a powerful alliance of the Capital Region and Tech Valley’s leading companies, academic institutions, community organizations and government officials. CEG and our partners have shaped a strong foundation over the years and the organization remains key to driving the strategic direction of the region. Andrew has the right mix of skills, experiences and vision to lead CEG through the next phase of evolution,” added CEG Executive Vice Chairman Thomas Amell, President & CEO, Pioneer Bank.
Andrew Kennedy currently serves as the Deputy Director of State Operations for Governor Andrew M Cuomo overseeing the day-to-day management of New York State government, as well as developing and overseeing implementation of state policies and programs related to economic development. Previously, Mr. Kennedy served as Governor Cuomo’s Assistant Secretary for Economic Development coordinating the development and management of the State’s economic development and housing efforts. Prior to joining Governor Cuomo’s staff, Andrew worked over a decade at the New York State Division of Budget and for the New York State Assembly where he developed a detailed understanding of New York’s fiscal and economic development policies and programs. Mr. Kennedy holds a master’s degree in Public Administration from the Nelson A. Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy and a bachelor’s degree from Siena College in Political Science.
“Andrew’s extensive experience with regional economic development issues and his vision for the CEG make him extremely well-suited to continue the vital work of this organization,” said Rensselaer County Executive Kathleen M. Jimino. “I have every confidence that Andrew will help bring the CEG to new heights and in doing so bolster opportunities for all to benefit from the economic growth of our region.”
