Wes Mathews, who was instrumental in helping the state of New Jersey grow its economic brand on the international stage as the CEO of Choose New Jersey, will leave the role in December for a position at PSEG, BINJE has learned.
Mathews will serve as vice president for state government affairs at PSEG in the corporate citizenship organization. In this role, he will oversee both state and regional governmental affairs and report to Rick Thigpen, senior vice president for Corporate Citizenship.
The move is part of the normal transition that comes with the end of an administration.
Mathews, who came to Choose in February of 2022 after a career in the foreign service, used that experience to help Gov. Phil Murphy fulfill his vision of making New Jersey “The World’s State.”
Under his leadership, the organization established four international offices — the New Jersey Ireland Center (2022), the New Jersey Israel Center (2023), the second New Jersey India Center in Bengaluru (2023), and the New Jersey Asia Pacific Center (2024) — as well as the New Jersey West Coast Center (2024), the organization’s first U.S. office outside of the state.
Mathews also headed economic missions with the governor to India, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and next month, Mexico, strengthening New Jersey’s international partnerships and fostering foreign investment.
Murphy had deep praise for Mathews.
“Wes Mathews’ exceptional leadership and global experience have been instrumental in positioning New Jersey as a major player on the international investment stage,” he said. “During his tenure, he cultivated and deepened strong international relationships by organizing several successful economic missions, expanding New Jersey’s global network of offices at home and abroad, and fostering meaningful investment that will benefit the Garden State for years to come.
“His work has strengthened our reputation as a destination for innovation and opportunity. We are deeply grateful for his many contributions and wish him continued success in his next chapter.”
Mathews’ efforts at Choose were vast.
He oversaw major advertising campaigns and supported economic development initiatives that have helped shape New Jersey’s vibrant business landscape. During his tenure, he launched the “This is New Jersey” campaign to promote the state as a prime destination for business attraction.
With the tagline “You can do anything here,” the advertising initiative showcased New Jersey’s strengths through targeted initiatives focused on artificial intelligence, film and life sciences. It also highlighted New Jersey as an exceptional place to do business and raise a family, further enhancing the state’s reputation on both national and international stages. Notably, the campaign generated over 11.3 billion impressions, underscoring its broad reach and significant impact.
Beyond his role at Choose New Jersey, Mathews serves as chair of the New Jersey-India Commission, strengthening economic and cultural ties between New Jersey and one of the world’s fastest-growing markets. He is vice chair of the Board of Directors of the FIFA World Cup 2026 New York/New Jersey Host Committee, where he continues to advance efforts to ensure the region’s success as a host destination.
PSEG Chair and CEO Ralph LaRossa, who serves as the chair of Choose New Jersey, was appreciative of Mathews’ efforts.
“Wes Mathews has been a proven leader for Choose New Jersey,” LaRossa said. “Under his leadership, Choose New Jersey has strengthened the state’s global business presence by supporting over 180 company relocations and expansions, resulting in over 14,000 new and retained jobs and an estimated $6.7 billion in economic impact for the state. His vision and dedication elevated our mission and created a lasting impact for businesses and communities across the state.”
Thigpen said PSEG is eager to welcome Mathews to PSEG.
“Wes’ knowledge and strategic insight will be invaluable additions to our very strong state government team,” he said. “I am pleased that he will join the team while we work to further strengthen our engagement and collaboration with the public sector and our stakeholders throughout the state.
“As the exiting CEO of the state’s leading business attraction entity, Wes will help us continue to navigate the increasingly dynamic public affairs environment and support the Governor-elect to ensure a seamless transition for New Jersey.”
Choose New Jersey’s Board of Directors will initiate a search for the organization’s next President and CEO — a search that certainly will take great input from the next governor.
Jennifer Lenhardt, the chief administrative officer, will serve as interim president and CEO during the transition.
Mathews said serving as CEO of Choose New Jersey has been the most rewarding chapter of his professional journey.
“It has been an extraordinary privilege to collaborate with a remarkable team committed to advancing New Jersey’s prominence on the global stage,” he said. “Together, we have unlocked new opportunities, forged international partnerships, and bolstered the state’s global competitiveness. I’m deeply grateful to Governor Murphy, First Lady Tammy Murphy, our Board of Directors, and our partners at the New Jersey Economic Development Authority and Business Action Center for their unwavering support and collaboration as part of the state’s economic development team.
“This has truly been a collective effort, and I’m thankful to have played a role in it. With deep appreciation for all we’ve accomplished together, I’m excited to take on my next opportunity.”
