Governor Jon S. Corzine named Jerold L. Zaro as the new Chief of the Governor’s Office of Economic Growth.  Zaro replaces Gary Rose who left the position at the end of June. Angie McGuire has served as Acting Chief during this transition period. 

“At a time when our nation is facing a fiscal crisis of epic proportion, there’s no-one better qualified than Jerry Zaro to ably steer New Jersey’s Economic Growth Strategy,” said Governor Corzine. “His 33 years of experience offer a diverse perspective that link critical facets of our economy - business, banking, real estate, law and transportation.  Jerry is truly a man for all seasons and I am pleased he has accepted the position to serve this Administration and the citizens of New Jersey.” 

Mr. Zaro has been involved in numerous business and corporate affairs.  He was Chairman of the Board of Ocean Independent Bank, a state chartered banking institution.  He also has served as a director of several other stock exchange listed companies and in addition, as a principal in numerous real estate development and management firms.  

For 12 ½ years, he was a Commissioner of the New Jersey Highway Authority with the last two years of the term as Chairman.  He recently completed a term as a Commissioner of the New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority.  

“Given the magnitude of the national economic crisis, I felt strongly about leaving the private sector to accept Governor Corzine’s call to lead the Office of Economic Growth,” Mr. Zaro said.  “The crisis we face is a non-partisan problem that requires a bipartisan solution.  I firmly believe that now, more than ever, is a time for all hands on deck.”  

Mr. Zaro was appointed to prior posts by four previous Governors, two Democrat and two Republican. 

The Office of Economic Growth was established by Executive Order 50 on Jan. 5, 2007, as a permanent part of the executive branch. Its mission is to coordinate the state’s economic development efforts across all sectors and departments. The office oversees the implementation of the state’s Economic Growth Strategy and coordinates efforts to improve the business climate while working to attract and retain good jobs.