Ferlanda Fox Nixon has been named the first Black woman to lead the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) after 25 years of leadership under Chip Hallock. Nixon, a corporate lawyer and former executive of the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, will step into her new role on September 16, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s history.
Hallock, who announced his retirement earlier this year, expressed full confidence in Nixon’s leadership. “She is the consummate professional, and I am confident that she will successfully execute and expand on NRBP’s mission and vision,” Hallock said. He emphasized how her leadership will strengthen the organization’s impact on Newark’s business landscape.
Newark Regional Business Partnership’s New Era of Leadership
The NRBP, founded in 1869, has been a cornerstone of Newark’s business ecosystem for more than a century. The organization comprises over 300 companies, including heavyweights like Prudential Financial, small businesses, and educational institutions such as Rutgers Business School. Its primary mission is to support local economic growth through networking, advocacy, and promoting collaborations that revitalize Newark’s business community.
Under Nixon’s leadership, the NRBP is poised to continue its growth and adapt to new challenges. “I am excited and honored to join the NRBP team as president and CEO,” Nixon said, describing Newark as a business community brimming with potential. Her vision is to strengthen connections between businesses and foster greater inclusivity and competitiveness.
Ferlanda Fox Nixon’s Path to Leadership
Nixon brings a wealth of experience to the NRBP. A graduate of Syracuse University and Georgetown University Law Center, she holds a certificate from the American Society of Association Executives. Before joining NRBP, she worked with the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, where she developed strong ties within the local business community.
Her appointment not only marks her as the first Black woman to lead the NRBP but also highlights her commitment to ensuring the organization’s mission thrives. Nixon, however, downplayed her historic appointment, stating, “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.”
Transforming the Business Landscape in Newark
Nixon’s appointment is not just about her qualifications; it signifies a broader shift toward inclusivity and progress within Newark’s business scene. As NRBP President & CEO, she is expected to enhance the organization’s role as a critical player in the local economy by advocating for policies that make Newark more business-friendly. The organization’s four pillars—networking, information sharing, advocacy, and economic revitalization—will continue to be its driving forces under Nixon’s leadership.
NRBP Board Chair Jennifer Mazawey praised Nixon’s collaborative spirit and leadership. “We are very excited that Ferlanda will be leading NRBP and helping us to forward our mission,” Mazawey said, emphasizing Nixon’s strong relationships within the Newark business community.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for NRBP
With Nixon at the helm, the NRBP is expected to continue its role as a driving force behind Newark’s economic development.
Her leadership will help to foster stronger connections between local businesses, attract new investments, and ensure that Newark remains a competitive hub for both large corporations and small businesses.
