John Kennedy, CEO of the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP), announced this week he will step down from leading the organization after more than a decade of service, effective May 31.

“Ever since I stepped in as CEO, workforce has been the number one concern among manufacturers in New Jersey and throughout the nation,” said Kennedy, who initially announced his plans to leave the role in October 2021. “The fact that during my 12 years with NJMEP we helped create and retain nearly 50,000 jobs in the industry is an accomplishment that will stick with me for my entire life. Manufacturing had a need, and we played a direct role in helping them overcome this imposing challenge.”

Peter Connolly, who joined the organization last September as chief operating officer, will succeed Kennedy, who says he is considering options to stay involved with NJMEP, perhaps in some type of advisor role.

“I believe that there is a little value-add left in me,” Kennedy wrote in an email to colleagues announcing his retirement. “We will just have to wait and see what happens, but supply chain and workforce development stand out in my mind.”

NJBIZ on the scene

Click here to check out a slideshow of the action from the 10th Annual ‘Made in New Jersey’ Manufacturing Day.

Kennedy noted the efforts of NJMEP to navigate challenges such as Superstorm Sandy, COVID-19 and more, and how the organization continues to tackle big issues, like supply chain, reshoring and the build-up of offshore wind.

“None of these things can be handled by a single individual,” said Kennedy, who cited his team and partners, stressing his appreciation.

Kennedy was a mainstay on the NJBIZ Manufacturing Power 100 lists, and under his leadership the NJMEP has made considerable strides to build up the manufacturing sector here in the Garden State. Those efforts include: the State-of-the-State of Manufacturing (taking place this year on May 4); a focus on women in the industry in 2022; the creation of the New Jersey Manufacturing Community Consortium that connects manufacturers with veterans and their families; helping shepherd the return of the Manufacturing Caucus in Trenton; the Manufacturing Partners for Town Hall Discussions; and, of course, Manufacturing Day—a staple event each year here in New Jersey.