State of New York - Empire State Development Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

State of New York - Empire State Development has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and convention center development.

Driven by economic growth, State of New York - Empire State Development is dedicated to fostering innovation and investment across New York State, focusing on key sectors like technology, life sciences, and clean energy to create jobs and enhance the state's competitive edge.

Leadership Roles at State of New York - Empire State Development

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Howard Zemsky
  • Chief Operating Officer & Executive & Deputy Commissioner - Kevin Younis
  • President, Convention Center Development Corporate - Rebecca Pellegrini
  • Chief of Staff - Noah Rayman
  • Howard Zemsky - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Howard Zemsky, the President & Chief Executive Officer at State of New York - Empire State Development, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the state's economic development initiatives. Overseeing all divisions, Zemsky ensures alignment with New York's mission to invest in information technology, life sciences, and clean energy sectors. This leadership role involves driving growth through targeted investments and fostering an environment conducive to advanced manufacturing technologies. By championing innovation, Howard Zemsky directly impacts the state's economic vitality and job creation efforts. The President & Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on maximizing the return on investment for New York's ventures and solidifying its position as a leader in emerging industries.

    Kevin Younis - Chief Operating Officer & Executive & Deputy Commissioner

    Kevin Younis, the Chief Operating Officer & Executive & Deputy Commissioner at State of New York - Empire State Development, oversees the day-to-day operational management and execution of key development projects. This executive role involves directing the implementation of strategies focused on information technology, life sciences, and clean energy investments. Kevin Younis ensures that operational frameworks support the company's mission to foster advanced manufacturing and technological innovation. By optimizing resource allocation and managing project lifecycles, the Chief Operating Officer & Executive & Deputy Commissioner drives efficiency and effectiveness across the organization. This leadership ensures the successful deployment of capital and the achievement of New York's economic growth targets.

    Rebecca Pellegrini - President, Convention Center Development Corporate

    Rebecca Pellegrini, the President, Convention Center Development Corporate at State of New York - Empire State Development, spearheads the strategic development and oversight of major convention center projects. This leadership position focuses on the financial viability and operational success of these critical infrastructure investments. Rebecca Pellegrini ensures these developments align with New York's broader economic goals, attracting tourism and business to the state. By managing complex project timelines and stakeholder relations, the President, Convention Center Development Corporate drives progress in these significant undertakings. Pellegrini's expertise is crucial in realizing the full economic potential of these convention facilities.

    Noah Rayman - Chief of Staff

    Noah Rayman, the Chief of Staff at State of New York - Empire State Development, manages critical internal operations and strategic initiatives, ensuring seamless execution of the President & Chief Executive Officer's vision. This position involves coordinating cross-departmental efforts to advance the company's investment focus on information technology, life sciences, and clean energy. By streamlining processes and facilitating communication, the Chief of Staff enhances operational efficiency across all ventures. Noah Rayman's role is pivotal in translating strategic goals into actionable plans, supporting the development of advanced manufacturing technologies. The Chief of Staff ensures that all organizational functions contribute effectively to New York's economic development objectives.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Government

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding State of New York - Empire State Development Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads State of New York - Empire State Development?
    State of New York - Empire State Development is led by Howard Zemsky (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Kevin Younis (Chief Operating Officer & Executive & Deputy Commissioner) and Rebecca Pellegrini (President, Convention Center Development Corporate).
    Who is part of State of New York - Empire State Development’s executive team?
    The executive team of State of New York - Empire State Development includes leaders such as Howard Zemsky (President & Chief Executive Officer), Kevin Younis (Chief Operating Officer & Executive & Deputy Commissioner), Rebecca Pellegrini (President, Convention Center Development Corporate) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does State of New York - Empire State Development have?
    State of New York - Empire State Development has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in State of New York - Empire State Development’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of State of New York - Empire State Development includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer & Executive & Deputy Commissioner, President, Convention Center Development Corporate, Chief of Staff.