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Orange County Partnership Announces Leadership Transition: Maureen Halahan to Retire, Conor Eckert Named New President & CEO
The Orange County Partnership, a leading economic development organization, announced on Monday, March 3rd that Maureen Halahan, its long-standing President and CEO, will retire in June of this year after 24 years of transformative leadership. Halahan has led the Partnership through a period of remarkable growth, attracting major national and international businesses to Orange County, NY, and generating thousands of jobs, significant tax revenue, and billions in capital investment.
The Board of Directors has voted to appoint Conor Eckert, the current Senior Vice President of the Orange County Partnership, as the incoming President and Chief Executive Officer. Eckert, who has been with the organization for the past three years, has been a key player in business attraction, expansion, and regional economic development initiatives, making him well-positioned to continue the Partnership’s legacy of success.
Maureen Halahan: A Legacy of Success
Maureen Halahan’s leadership has been a driving force in the economic revitalization of Orange County and the entire Hudson Valley. Over her tenure, Halahan was instrumental in securing and supporting major development projects, including Legoland New York, Amazon, Tesla, Pratt & Whitney, Medline Industries, and President Container Group, among others. These projects have led to the creation of thousands of jobs, the development of critical infrastructure, and billions of dollars in private investment.
In addition to her work at the Orange County Partnership, Halahan has served on the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council for over 13 years, providing guidance and support for business growth and regional collaboration.
"I have been privileged to lead the Orange County Partnership for 24 years," said Halahan. "I am proud of the work we’ve accomplished, and I am confident that Conor Eckert, with his experience and vision, will continue to drive the Partnership toward even greater successes. This transition is a natural progression, and I look forward to supporting him and the organization in the coming months."
Conor Eckert: Poised for Continued Growth
Conor Eckert has been with the Orange County Partnership for three years, most recently serving as Senior Vice President. During his tenure, Eckert has focused on positioning Orange County as a hub for advanced manufacturing and developing shovel-ready sites to attract high-quality projects. His work has led to significant investments in the region, including projects with Poly Craft Industries, Kedem/Royal Wine, and Cardinal Healthcare.
Eckert’s leadership was also pivotal in securing key funding for the development of shovel-ready tech sites through the FAST NY initiative, positioning Orange County as a leading location for technology and innovation.
"I am honored by the opportunity to step into the role of President and CEO," said Eckert. "I am grateful to Maureen for her mentorship and vision, which have laid the foundation for the Partnership’s continued success. I look forward to building upon that legacy and taking the organization into a new chapter of growth and opportunity for Orange County."
Strong Support from the Board and Community Leaders
Melissa Cobuzzi, Chairperson of the Orange County Partnership Board of Directors and President of M&R Energy, expressed her deep gratitude to Halahan and strong confidence in Eckert’s leadership. "On behalf of the Board of Directors, we thank Maureen for her exceptional service over the past 24 years. Her contributions to the region’s economic vitality are immeasurable, and we wish her the very best in her retirement. With Conor Eckert’s appointment, we are excited to enter a new era of economic development. We are confident in his ability to lead the organization to even greater heights."
County Executive Steve Neuhaus, a long-time supporter of the Partnership, added, "I have worked closely with both Maureen and Conor throughout my administration. Maureen’s leadership has had a profound impact on Orange County, and I have no doubt that Conor will continue that tradition of excellence."
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