Gov. Mikie Sherrill has officially appointed Jill Hirsch as the new president and CEO of the New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority (NJSEA). The NJSEA Board of Commissioners voted unanimously on Thursday to confirm Hirsch, who will take the helm of the powerful state agency starting Jan. 23.
Hirsch, a distinguished attorney and veteran public servant, succeeds Nick Mammano, who will transition into a senior advisor role through February to ensure a smooth leadership handover.
The appointment comes at a high-stakes moment for New Jersey. The NJSEA is the primary agency responsible for managing the Meadowlands Sports Complex, including MetLife Stadium, which is set to host eight matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including the prestigious World Cup Final.
“Jill Hirsch is an exceptional leader with years of experience in public service,” Sherrill said. “As New Jersey prepares to host the FIFA World Cup this summer, I can think of no one better suited to lead the NJSEA than Jill.”
Hirsch brings a diverse professional background to the NJSEA, ranging from grassroots advocacy to federal policy coordination:
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Political leadership: Most recently served as statewide political director for the coordinated campaign that helped elect Governor Sherrill.
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Federal experience: Served as District Director for then-Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, managing complex intergovernmental relations across the 11th District.
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Legal advocacy: Spent a significant portion of her career at the Legal Aid Society, representing the rights of children in abuse, neglect, and juvenile delinquency cases.
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Community service: Served on the Board of Directors for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) of Essex County.
The NJSEA’s mission extends beyond sports; it is also the planning and zoning authority for the Hackensack Meadowlands District, balancing economic development with environmental preservation. Hirsch’s leadership will be vital in managing the massive infrastructure and security logistics required for the World Cup.
“The NJSEA is a unique and exceptional public authority with an outsized impact on New Jersey’s economy,” Hirsch said. “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to drive jobs, tourism, and long-term investment while showcasing New Jersey to a global audience.”
Board Chairman John Ballantyne praised the appointment, noting that Hirsch’s “rare combination of public sector experience and operational judgment” will be a major asset as the authority enters its most demanding year to date.
