Ferlanda Fox Nixon Becomes First Black Woman CEO of Newark Regional Business Partnership

In a historic move, the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) has appointed Ferlanda Fox Nixon as its new president and CEO , marking the first time a Black woman has held the position.

Nixon will take over from Chip Hallock , who served as CEO for 25 years. The transition will officially occur on Sept. 16, 2024 .

Hallock, who announced his retirement earlier this year, expressed confidence in Nixon’s leadership , stating :

“It is a pleasure to have Ferlanda take the reins. She is the consummate professional , and I am confident that she will successfully execute and expand on NRBP’s mission and vision .”

Nixon, who previously served as a corporate attorney and held an executive role within the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey , acknowledged the groundbreaking nature of her appointment.

However, she emphasized that her selection was based on merit rather than race .

“I am excited and honored to join the Newark Regional Business Partnership team as president and CEO,” said Nixon. “Newark is a terrific regional business community with unlimited potential. I believe the NRBP selected the person it deemed most qualified to lead and further the mission of the organization , and that person happened to be an African-American woman .”

The NRBP, which includes over 300 businesses, nonprofits, and educational institutions , aims to foster economic growth and connectivity in Newark, New Jersey’s largest city.

Nixon’s leadership is expected to build on the organization’s mission to promote business development through policy and collaboration .

Nixon, an alum of Syracuse University and Georgetown Law , will work alongside Hallock during the transition period.

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