NJ DOT Gets New Leader: FIFA World Cup Infrastructure Focus

TRENTON, N.J. – In one of her first official acts after being sworn in, New Jersey’s 57th Governor, Mikie Sherrill, announced her intention to nominate global infrastructure expert Priya Jain to lead the state’s Department of Transportation. Jain, a civil engineer with extensive private-sector experience, is tasked with overhauling the state’s transportation network, with a critical focus on delivering key projects ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Governor Mikie Sherrill, inaugurated earlier today, formally announced her selection of Priya Jain to serve as the next Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT). In a press release from her office, Sherrill emphasized that Jain’s leadership will be “critical in delivering faster commutes and safer roads.” The nomination, which is subject to confirmation by the state Senate, places a seasoned engineering and business professional at the helm of an agency facing significant deadlines and challenges.

Jain brings a robust portfolio of international experience to the role. Most recently, she served as the President of Americas for Mace Consult, a global engineering and consultancy firm. Her career has been marked by leadership roles focused on business development, corporate strategy, and organizational transformation. According to officials in the Sherrill administration, Jain has a proven track record of delivering complex programs and managing the intricate technical details, specifications, and costs associated with large-scale infrastructure projects, making her uniquely suited for the demands of the NJDOT.

The timing of the nomination underscores the urgency of the state’s transportation agenda. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, New Jersey faces immense pressure to complete key infrastructure improvements to accommodate the massive influx of international visitors. Governor Sherrill specifically highlighted these improvements, along with reducing barriers and costs in the state’s permitting process, as top priorities for the incoming commissioner. Jain’s appointment signals a strategic move to leverage private-sector efficiency and global project management expertise to meet these public-sector goals.

Key Takeaways

• Priya Jain, a civil engineer and former President at Mace Consult, has been nominated to lead the New Jersey Department of Transportation.
• The nomination is one of the first major decisions by newly inaugurated Governor Mikie Sherrill, signaling a high priority on infrastructure.
• A primary objective for the new commissioner will be ensuring the state’s transportation infrastructure is prepared for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Editor’s Analysis

The nomination of Priya Jain is a significant indicator of a growing trend in public infrastructure management: the pivot towards leaders with deep, private-sector experience in global project delivery. For the global rail and transit market, this is a clear signal that the Sherrill administration is prioritizing on-time, on-budget execution over traditional political appointments. Jain’s background at Mace Consult suggests a focus on technical proficiency and commercial acumen. Her success or failure in preparing New Jersey for a massive international event like the FIFA World Cup will be a closely watched case study on whether this model of leadership can effectively navigate the complexities of public-sector transportation agencies and deliver under pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Priya Jain?

Priya Jain is a civil engineer and business professional nominated to be the next Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation. Her most recent role was President of Americas for the global consultancy firm Mace Consult.

What are the main priorities for the new NJDOT Commissioner?

The key priorities outlined by Governor Sherrill include improving commute times, enhancing road safety, streamlining the project permitting process, and delivering critical infrastructure upgrades ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Has Mikie Sherrill officially become governor?

Yes, Mikie Sherrill was inaugurated as New Jersey’s 57th governor on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, just before the nomination was announced.