Nicholas Mammano will become the next President and Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority (NJSEA), following a unanimous vote by its board of commissioners on Thursday (Dec. 19).
Mammano officially takes the reigns Jan. 1, succeeding retiring president and CEO Paul Juliano, the NJSEA said in a statement.
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy praised the decision, citing Mammano’s extensive background in public service and leadership.
“Nick’s prior experience as chief of staff and his years in public service make him uniquely qualified to lead the NJSEA as we prepare to host the FIFA World Cup in 2026, the world’s largest sporting event,” Murphy said.
NJSEA Chairman John Ballantyne echoed this sentiment, describing Mammano as “an exceptional, dynamic leader” who has demonstrated a strong work ethic and mastery of the Authority’s operations during his tenure.
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About Nick Mammano
Mammano joined the NJSEA in 2023 as chief of staff to Juliano, having been a vice president at Mercury Public Affairs, a private consultant, political operative and policy adviser. He also spent over eight years as chief of staff to State Sen. Joseph A. Lagana (D-38).
He said he was enthusiastic about the opportunities ahead. “My time with the NJSEA has shown me the profound impact our work has on the region and the state,” Mammano said, adding, “This is an exciting time to lead the Authority.
Juliano was the Bergen County Democratic chairman when he was hired as president and CEO of the Sports Authority in February 2023, replacing former Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto.
The NJSEA’s Diverse Portfolio
Mammano will oversee the NJSEA and its management of the Meadowlands District — a 30-square-mile area spanning 14 towns in Bergen and Hudson counties. The Greater Meadowlands Region touches 32 municipalities across Bergen, Hudson, Essex, and Passaic counties.
The NJSEA is tasked with regional planning, zoning, and environmental conservation while fostering economic development. The Authority also holds the land lease for the MetLife Sports Complex, which includes MetLife Stadium, American Dream, and the Meadowlands Racetrack.
“We are committed to delivering world-class experiences for residents and visitors while supporting economic growth and protecting our natural resources. As we prepare for the global spotlight in 2026, I am dedicated to ensuring the NJSEA operates as a model of excellence and collaboration,” Mammano added.
In addition to its work in the Meadowlands region, the NJSEA oversees the Wildwoods Convention Center and manages the land lease for Monmouth Park Racetrack. The agency also operates the Meadowlands Environmental Research Institute in partnership with Rutgers University to study the area’s wetlands. Further, its Solid Waste and Natural Resources divisions protect, maintain, and enhance the District’s park network and urban ecosystem.
Outgoing CEO Juliano expressed confidence in Mammano’s leadership. “Nick has been an invaluable asset during his time as chief of staff, providing guidance and support that has been crucial to the NJSEA’s mission. I am certain he will excel as President and CEO during this pivotal time.”
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2026 FIFA World Cup
With a focus on innovation and collaboration, Mammano takes over during a transformative era for the NJSEA as the Meadowlands region advances the state’s presence on the international stage. A major focus of his leadership will be preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
MetLife Stadium Meadowlands in East Rutherford, New Jersey will host eight matches, including the tournament’s final on July 19, 2026. FIFA World Cup 2026 is expected to draw in excess of one million visitors, generate $2 billion in economic impact, and support 14,000 jobs.
The NJSEA also holds the land lease to and provides for the ongoing operation of the MetLife Sports Complex, home to MetLife Stadium, American Dream and the Meadowlands Racetrack.
“Nick Mammano possesses an unwavering commitment to doing right by constituents in the Meadowlands District and the entire State of New Jersey,” said Paul Juliano, outgoing NJSEA President and CEO.
“His guidance, support and input as Chief of Staff have been invaluable to carrying out the NJSEA’s important work. I have every confidence that Nick will do a fine job heading the NJSEA in 2025, a critical year leading up to the World Cup,” Juliano said.
Formerly the Bergen County Democratic Chairman and Fairview DPW Superintendent, Juliano replaced Vincent Prieto as NJSEA President and CEO in the summer of 2023. Prieto was first appointed in February 2018, just days after stepping down from his role as Assembly Speaker.
About the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority
The NJSEA was created in 1971 and holds the land lease for and provides for the ongoing operation of the MetLife Sports Complex, which has entertained hundreds of millions of people from all over the world for the past 40 years.
The sports and entertainment hub has hosted world-class events at MetLife Stadium, including Super Bowl XLVIII, WrestleMania 29, World Cup Soccer, a Papal mass, and concerts by the biggest names in the entertainment industry.
The stadium is home to pro football’s New York Giants and New York Jets.
The Complex also includes the Meadowlands Racetrack, the site of the prestigious Hambletonian Stakes, which takes place on the first Saturday of every August. It is also the home of the American Dream Meadowlands entertainment and shopping destination.
