Proven economic development veteran will lead the organization’s efforts to advance local investment and business expansion, talent attraction, and key industry growth sector strategies.
Via an Invest Buffalo Niagara news release...
BUFFALO, NY (September 23, 2026) – Today Invest Buffalo Niagara (InBN) —the nonprofit, privately funded economic development organization representing the eight counties of Western New York—officially announced the appointment of Jenna Kavanaugh as the organization’s President & CEO, effective October 19.
The national search effort was led by TalentRise in partnership with an eight-member sub-committee comprised of select InBN’s Board of Directors.
As President & CEO, Kavanaugh will lead InBN’s efforts to strengthen the region’s economic position and advance initiatives that support long-term business growth, investment and job creation, and growth sector advancement across Western New York.
Kavanaugh steps into the role at a pivotal time for InBN, as the region seeks to capitalize on emerging industries that will shape the future of the regional economy. Key areas of focus include advanced manufacturing, clean energy, food and agribusiness, life sciences, technology and next-generation supply chains.
“I am honored to lead Invest Buffalo Niagara at an important moment for our region. Western New York has an opportunity to compete for investment, grow our existing businesses and position our region for the industries that will define the next generation of economic growth,” said Kavanaugh. Our opportunity is not only to attract new growth, but to strengthen the partnerships, infrastructure, and innovation ecosystem that will define our region's future. By working together, we can position Western New York as one of the most competitive and compelling places to invest, grow, and build.”
Kavanaugh has nearly two decades of experience with InBN, where she first began as a Director of Marketing and Communications and until 2023 served as Chief Operating Officer. During her tenure, she helped shape organizational strategy, strengthen operations, elevate the organization’s regional profile and deepen relationships with business and economic partners while helping expand its role as a leading advocate for growth across Western New York.
Additionally, Kavanaugh brings a corporate economic development perspective from her most recent role as Economic Development Manager at National Grid, where she deepened her understanding of the factors that drive business investment and regional competitiveness. In her role, Kavanaugh worked with municipalities, economic development organizations, and community leaders to support business attraction and expansion, workforce initiatives, regional site development, and strategic investment opportunities that strengthen Western New York’s competitiveness.
“Having had the opportunity to work alongside Jenna, I could not be more pleased to see her take on this role. She brings a deep understanding of Invest Buffalo Niagara, a strong commitment to our region, and a genuine belief in the organization’s mission,” said Ken Kujawa, Regional Director at National Grid. “She is the right person to lead Invest Buffalo Niagara at this time, providing the continuity, management skills, and perspective needed to build on this strong foundation while charting a course for the future. I’m excited to see what she will accomplish in this next chapter.”
“Jenna Kavanaugh is the right leader at the right time for Invest Buffalo Niagara as it continues its vital work of attracting new jobs, talent, and investment to our community,” said Grant Loomis, President & CEO of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership. “At a critical moment for our region’s economic growth, Jenna’s track record as a skilled collaborator, consensus builder, and economic development professional is exactly what this work demands. As the leader of the regional chamber of commerce, I look forward to working side by side with Jenna, as true partners, to build a stronger, more vibrant regional economy.”
Buffalo Niagara is a premiere destination for investment, innovation and business growth. Kavanaugh will work alongside regional partners to advance a shared vision to attract new opportunities, strengthen the region’s competitive advantage and reinforce its position as one of North America’s leading economic development ecosystems.
“Congratulations to Jenna on this incredibly well-deserved and timely appointment. She’s the right person for this role—a thoughtful leader, a natural partnership builder, and someone who knows how to bring people together around a shared vision,” said Colleen Heideinger, President and incoming CEO of the 43North Foundation. “I’m thrilled for Jenna and look forward to working alongside her as we continue strengthening partnerships and creating opportunities for a better Buffalo for all.”
“Jenna Kavanaugh is truly a champion of the City of Buffalo and the WNY region as a whole. Her economic development expertise; collaborative approach; and the partnerships that she’s built over time make her an incredible fit for this role. We look forward to working together to continue advancing our City and region,” said Brandye Merriweather, President of the Buffalo Urban Development Corporation.
"From navigating complex utility needs and incentives to championing Buffalo’s vibrant quality of life, Jenna has proven herself a leader in business attraction. We are thrilled to welcome her as President and CEO. She is ready to advance Invest Buffalo Niagara’s core mission while driving a new era of dedication to the organization and community," said Rebecca Gandour, Executive Vice President of the Buffalo Urban Development Corporation.
Kavanaugh succeeds Thomas Kucharski who retired in June 2026 after more than 25 years leading InBN and more than 40 years in the field of economic development. Under his leadership, Tom helped guide the organization through a period of significant growth and transformation, leaving a lasting impact on the region.
As InBN enters this next chapter of growth, Kavanaugh will focus on building on the organization’s strong foundation and creating new opportunities to advance economic development across Buffalo Niagara.
ABOUT INVEST BUFFALO NIAGARA
Invest Buffalo Niagara is the area’s leading private sector economic development and business attraction organization, focused on research, marketing, and business development outreach. With exceptional community connectivity, Invest Buffalo Niagara’s staff provides comprehensive services and project management for companies looking to expand or relocate. From research all the way through ribbon-cutting, Invest Buffalo Niagara is the primary point of contact for economic development in the eight-county Buffalo Niagara region.
Learn more: buffaloniagara.org.
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