Lina Khan Assumed New York City EDC Board Chair

The former FTC chair joined the city's economic development agency board alongside new CEO Tony Shorris.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in People

Isometric editorial illustration showing a simplified model of a city block, representing urban economic development.
Lina Khan has been appointed board chair of the New York City Economic Development Corporation, leading the agency alongside new CEO Tony Shorris. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Lina Khan has assumed the role of board chair for the New York City Economic Development Corporation. The appointment coincides with Tony Shorris beginning his tenure as the agency's president and CEO.

Why it matters

The leadership changes at the New York City Economic Development Corporation signal a new era for the nonprofit organization that manages over 60 million square feet of city-owned real estate. The agency plays a critical role in the city's economy, including oversight of the city-run grocery store program.

The New York City Economic Development Corporation manages a portfolio of more than 60 million square feet of city-owned real estate. Board members are appointed by the mayor with recommendations from the City Council speaker and borough presidents.

The players

Lina Khan

She is the newly appointed board chair of the New York City Economic Development Corporation and previously served as the chair of the Federal Trade Commission.

Tony Shorris

He is the new president and CEO of the New York City Economic Development Corporation and a former partner at McKinsey & Company.

New York City Economic Development Corporation

This nonprofit organization is responsible for managing city-owned real estate and driving economic growth within New York City.

The details

The board of directors is responsible for voting on project proposals presented by the agency staff. These projects are instrumental in shaping urban development, such as the management of city-run grocery initiatives.

Timeline

  1. Tony Shorris began his term as president and CEO on September 8, 2026.

  2. Lina Khan started her role as board chair on September 30, 2026.

  3. The agency held its first board meeting under new leadership on September 30, 2026.

Market Landscape

This leadership transition aligns with the standard governance model for the New York City Economic Development Corporation board appointment process. The changes position the agency to manage its city-wide real estate footprint under a new regulatory and administrative vision.

As the agency oversees essential infrastructure like the city-run grocery store program, these leadership moves could influence future service availability and store locations. Residents may see changes in how the city manages property development and community resources in the coming years.

The takeaway

The appointment of high-profile leaders like Khan and Shorris suggests that the EDC will maintain a significant role in managing urban space in New York City. Residents should monitor upcoming board votes, as these decisions directly impact local development and food security programs.

Further reading

For more on local leadership changes, visit People.

Source note: This article includes information reported by City & State NY.

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