Renee Burgess confirmed as Essex County director of Small Business Development

Renee Burgess was confirmed by the Essex County Board of County Commissioners on May 21 as director of the county’s Office of Small Business Development.

Administration representative Mr. Jackson introduced Burgess and asked her to address the board. Burgess described herself as a lifelong Irvington resident with more than 26 years of community service and said she holds an associate’s and bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s in public administration. She told commissioners she has professional certifications in finance, human resources, procurement, public housing and economic development and said she has worked on business and redevelopment initiatives in Irvington.

Commissioners offered unanimous praise. Commissioner Seibold said he has known Burgess for many years and highlighted her prior council leadership in Irvington. Commissioner Marie Thomas thanked Burgess for her service to Irvington and the county and noted Burgess’s work with state-level programs. Vice President Cooper welcomed Burgess and said he looked forward to her efforts to increase diversity among county vendors and contractors.

Commissioner Richardson moved the confirmation and the board approved Burgess by roll call. The administration said it and the commissioners will work with Burgess to improve vendor outreach and increase participation by women-, minority- and veteran-owned businesses in county contracting.

What’s next: Burgess will be onboarded in the Office of Small Business Development and is expected to brief the board on vendor-diversity initiatives and contracting outreach once in office.