Matt Cohen steps down as Long Island Association CEO

The head of the region's most prominent business group, the Long Island Association, is stepping down, and an interim leader has been appointed. 

Matt Cohen, president and chief executive of the LIA since May 2021, told Newsday on Monday, "I'm looking for a new challenge and to still make an impact on Long Island."

He said his five-year contract expires on June 30, and that the LIA's executive committee was aware of his wish to explore new career opportunities after 15 years with the group. 

Cohen, 44, of Commack, will remain on the payroll until the end of June, but the committee tapped Stacey Sikes, vice president of government affairs and communications, to oversee day-to-day operations on an interim basis, effective Monday.

She said she plans to work with the 100-member board of directors and her fellow staff members "to ensure the LIA remains an important voice on behalf of the business community." Newsday publisher Debby Krenek is a board member. 

The LIA lobbies government on issues impacting companies, organizes networking and educational events and provides research on economic trends.

Cohen joined the group in 2011 as vice president of government affairs and communications under then-chief executive Kevin Law and then succeeded Law. 

Cohen said Monday he and the staff have worked to expand services for small businesses, minority-owned businesses and those on the East End over the past five years.

Cohen also said the establishment of a charitable foundation, the LIA Foundation, led to a partnership with telecommunications giant Optimum for a new small-business grant program. He estimated $1 million in grants will have been awarded over three years as of Dec. 31.

"Since day one, I've wanted to be part of the solution that allows for young people, like my son, who turns 15 this month, to stay on Long Island, if they want to, and have the ability to afford to live here," Cohen said.

His departure coincides with the LIA marking the 100th anniversary of its founding.

The Melville-based group reported a profit of $11,600 in 2024 on revenue of $3.2 million. Cohen's salary totaled $441,150, according to the most recent available income tax return.

Previously, Cohen was LIPA’s executive director of government relations and led Sen. Chuck Schumer’s Long Island office. 

Lawrence J. Waldman, the LIA’s longtime chairman, said of Cohen on Monday, “We are delighted that he was with us for 15 years, and look forward to him having great success in the future."

Waldman also told Newsday the group's executive committee will soon begin a search for a new president and chief executive.

"We're going to cast a wide net as we did last time. We look forward to having another great leader," Waldman said.

By James T. Madore

james.madore@newsday.comJamesTMadore

James T. Madore writes about Long Island business news including the economy, development, and the relationship between government and business. He previously served as Albany bureau chief.