Gertler appointed president and CEO of Empire State Development

Albany, NY Governor Andrew Cuomo has nominated Eric Gertler to serve as president and CEO of Empire State Development (ESD), New York State’s chief economic development agency. Gertler, who is currently the executive chairman of U.S. News & World Report and has been on the board of ESD since June 2018, will assume his role effective September 3^rd. He will replace Howard Zemsky, who will remain chair of the ESD board. 

“Eric is an innovative leader who spent decades at the intersection of business, media and government - making him uniquely suited to run our chief economic development and tourism agency,” Cuomo said. 

“I’m grateful to Howard for continuing to serve as chairman of the board after a successful term overseeing this administration’s locally-driven economic development strategy and in particular helping turn around Buffalo›s economy and bringing young people back to Upstate cities. New York is the better for his service and the combination of these two fantastic leaders will be dynamite for future growth across the state.”  

Incoming president and CEO of Empire State Development Eric Gertler said, “I thank governor Cuomo for the confidence he is placing in me and for the privilege to serve New York State and its citizens. I have boundless faith in the economic potential of New York State, and I look forward to supporting governor Cuomo in further strengthening our dynamic economy for this and future generations. As we continue to attract business investment, stimulate new industry, reinforce our existing infrastructure and invest in workforce development, we will build on New York State’s legacy as one of the nation’s most decisive economic engines.”

Empire State Development chairman Howard Zemsky said, “I have worked closely with Eric as a board member and have complete confidence that he is the right person to lead the critical work of ESD. His experience, insight and understanding of both New York and the business community will be of enormous benefit to his work at ESD and to the State. I look forward to a productive partnership with Eric as I continue as chairman of the board of Empire State Development.”