John T. Peters
By Joshua Burd
The Main Street Business Alliance in Hackensack has tapped a veteran entrepreneur and executive as the new head of the special improvement district.
Also known as The Sack Business Alliance, the organization said John T. Peters comes to the role with decades of experience in executive management, marketing, public relations, tourism, technology, media and event management. He takes over as executive director of an entity that serves as a public-private partnership between the business community and the city of Hackensack, seeking to improve the local economy and the overall business climate.
“I look forward to collaborating with the businesses, residents and city of Hackensack to continue the Alliance’s successes,” Peters said. “So much great work has already been done, and there’s so much more potential to continue to transform the district into a thriving community for all to enjoy.”
Peters has built and successfully sold two companies, including a technology firm acquired by Rand McNally and one international tourism business acquired by Far & Wide, according to a news release. He has also helmed companies of varying sizes, with posts such as president of travel media at USA Today, where he oversaw a team of nearly 100 and led the group through explosive growth.
“John’s background in business, tourism and technology is the perfect mix of what we need,” said Edward Decker, chairman of the Main Street Business Alliance and owner of Musically Yours. “He’s put together a detailed, multiyear strategy, the likes of which this organization has never seen before, and we’re very confident in his ability to execute the plan.”
The SBA’s programs and services are underwritten by a special assessment collected from property owners, helping fund services such as maintaining the cleanliness of Main Street, maintenance of the trees and plant beds, signage improvement and business recruitment, the news release said. There are 160 commercial properties and more than 375 businesses within the district, while the organization is governed by an 11-member board elected by the members of the district, along with liaisons from the Hackensack Regional Chamber of Commerce, Johnson Public Library and city council.
Peters reports to the board.
“John is not only extremely talented, but he’s outgoing, approachable and understands the value of relationships and strategic partnerships,” said Eric Anderson, vice chairman of the board and CEO of Alexander Anderson Real Estate Group.
Jason Some, owner of Some’s Uniforms and secretary of the Alliance, added: “He’s basically a startup business guy, so he’s happy to jump into the weeds, roll up his sleeves and do the work to make things happen. Plus, he’s got a lot of energy, and he’s fun to work with.”
