As managing director, Jeff Cournoyer serves as the primary point of contact for the Mount Ida Campus while focusing on public affairs and business development. As chair of the Mount Ida Campus Steering Committee, he works closely with UMass Amherst colleagues, including those in academic affairs, research and engagement, and university relations to align the activities on the Mount Ida Campus with the needs of the Greater Boston business community. Cournoyer joined UMass Amherst from the UMass President’s Office, where he was vice president for communications, managing external affairs for the five-campus UMass system, including public relations, marketing and digital media. As a member of President Marty Meehan’s senior leadership team, he was a key advisor to the president, the UMass Board of Trustees and leadership on the five UMass campuses.
Cournoyer was previously Associate Vice Chancellor of Public Affairs at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, where he managed the Lowell campus’ offices of media relations, government relations and community relations and led strategic communications initiatives. Prior to joining UMass, he was director of corporate communications for The Kraft Group, the holding company that owns and operates the New England Patriots, Gillette Stadium and Patriot Place. He also served as deputy chief of staff and budget director for former Massachusetts State Senator Stephen M. Brewer and as director for the Senate Committee on Ethics & Rules. Cournoyer serves on the Charles River Regional Chamber Board of Directors and is a past board member of the Massachusetts Amateur Sports Foundation.