Several years ago, NJBIZ stopped including government officials in our Power lists for two reasons. First, we’re a business publication, so we should focus on the state’s most influential business leaders. And second, government officials derive their power mainly from the offices they hold rather than from the persuasiveness of their intellects or effectiveness of their actions.

So, readers may well wonder why Gov. Mikie Sherrill leads this year’s Power 100. And they deserve an explanation. Here goes.

When this list was being compiled and finalized, Sherrill had yet to be sworn in but was already making decisions that would reverberate through the business community. And her first acts as governor directly affected business interests, even though she had yet to completely take the reins of power.

By most accounts, the governor has gotten off to a strong start, issuing executive orders designed to begin the process of fulfilling her campaign promises. And that bodes well for the remainder of her term.

Of course, New Jerseyans from all walks of life will be paying close attention to Gov. Sherrill’s actions and will undoubtedly celebrate her success and hold her accountable for any disappointments she meets along the way.

For now, though, we can only judge her by her words and the very early steps she’s taken to shape her administration. Given the magnitude of Sherrill’s electoral victory last fall and the reception she is receiving during these first weeks of her term, she deserves the recognition on this list.

The remainder, especially the top 10, adheres to our customary criteria. Readers will note the upcoming World Cup and the economic impact the tournament is expected to generate around here plays an important role shaping the list. The increasing importance of artificial intelligence also guided many decisions. And, of course, the continuing prominence of health care in the economy is also reflected in these choices.

As always, we look forward to hearing from you – about the decisions we made in drafting this list and whether we missed someone deserving of recognition. Let us know what you think.

The top 10 names are listed in numerical order below; the remainder of the list is arranged alphabetically. Thanks for reading.

– Jeffrey Kanige, NJBIZ editor

Methodology

The Power Lists are compiled by the NJBIZ editorial staff based on our reporting throughout the past year with input from experts in a variety of fields and recommendations from our readers. The staff looks for people who have gained public attention – and perhaps acclaim – for their professional accomplishments and public service. Each list identifies individuals who, through their efforts, are helping to make New Jersey a better place to live, work and do business. Honorees are not necessarily better at their jobs than others in their profession, but they have contributed meaningfully to the advancement of the public interest through their work and/or community service.