NEW ORLEANS — Mayor Helena Moreno today announced a series of leadership appointments designed to strengthen the City’s economic development efforts, expand international partnerships, and accelerate investment opportunities throughout New Orleans, with a particular focus on New Orleans East.
As part of the reorganization, Dr. Jenny Mains will transition into a new role as Special Advisor to the Mayor for International Partnerships and Strategic Economic Development. In this capacity, Dr. Mains will serve as a senior representative of the administration, helping cultivate relationships with business leaders, investors, chambers of commerce, educational institutions, trade organizations, and international partners while identifying opportunities that support New Orleans’ long-term economic growth.
“Dr. Mains has been a tireless advocate for New Orleans and has built strong relationships both nationally and internationally,” said Mayor Moreno. “This new role allows us to better leverage her expertise, connections, and passion for our city to attract investment, expand partnerships, strengthen international engagement, and create new opportunities for our residents and businesses.”
Dr. Mains will work closely with the Office of Economic Development and regional partners to support business attraction, retention, expansion, workforce development, and efforts to improve New Orleans’ global connectivity.
Mayor Moreno also announced that Jeff Schwartz, currently Director of the Office of Community Development, will become Deputy Mayor for Economic Development and Community Development.
“Jeff has demonstrated exceptional leadership in community development and understands the importance of aligning neighborhood revitalization with economic opportunity,” Moreno said. “Bringing economic development and community development together under one leadership structure will help ensure that growth reaches every part of our city and that our investments create stronger communities.”
In addition, Deputy Mayor of External Affairs Renee Lapeyrolerie will serve as the administration’s lead coordinator and point person for New Orleans East, overseeing and advancing major economic development initiatives, partnership opportunities, and strategic projects in the area.
“New Orleans East remains one of my administration’s top priorities,” Moreno said. “Renee will serve as my direct point person to ensure projects move forward, opportunities are pursued aggressively, and residents and stakeholders have a clear advocate at the highest levels of City Hall. We are committed to unlocking the tremendous potential of New Orleans East and ensuring it receives the attention and investment it deserves.”
Together, the leadership changes are intended to create a more coordinated and aggressive approach to economic development, business attraction, neighborhood investment, and strategic partnerships throughout New Orleans.
“These appointments reflect our commitment to growing New Orleans’ economy, attracting new investment, strengthening our neighborhoods, and creating opportunities in every corner of our city,” Mayor Moreno said. “By aligning talented leaders around these priorities, we are building the team needed to move New Orleans forward.”