Golden State Today

Luis A. Quiñonez has been appointed as the new President of the California Foundation for Commerce and Education (CFCE), an organization affiliated with CalChamber. The CFCE is a non-profit research group focused on analyzing the effects of public policy on business, jobs, and investment within California.

Quiñonez previously held the role of Chief of Staff to California State Senator Anna M. Caballero (D-Merced). He will officially take over his new position on February 18, 2025, succeeding Loren Kaye, who retired at the end of 2024 after serving as CFCE President since 2006.

CalChamber President and CEO Jennifer Barrera expressed confidence in Quiñonez's capabilities: “Luis brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to this role,” she stated. Barrera emphasized his leadership skills and commitment to ensuring that both lawmakers and the public recognize "the significant contributions private enterprise makes to our economy and the adverse impact that costly, unbalanced policies have on our competitiveness."

Quiñonez shared his perspective on his upcoming role by saying, “CalChamber is the leading voice for California’s business community and I am honored to be working together at the helm of CFCE.” He highlighted the importance of a balanced approach in addressing current challenges while also seizing future opportunities. He added that their work would aim to clarify "the economic reality of legislative policies impacting all sectors of California’s economy."

With over two decades of experience in public policy, public affairs, government relations, and research across both public and private sectors, Quiñonez is poised to lead CFCE during a pivotal time for California's economic landscape.