SAN JOSE, Calif (September 18, 2025) – The Silicon Valley Leadership Group (SVLG) – the leading business association representing the innovation economy and its ecosystem – today announced the appointment of Charles “Chappie” Jones, Jr. as Senior Advisor to the CEO with a focus on civic partnerships.
In this role, Jones will advise SVLG’s executive leadership on regional engagement strategies, inclusive economic growth, and strengthened partnerships between business, government, and community organizations in the South Bay.
“Chappie’s deep roots in San Jose and his proven leadership make him an invaluable resource to SVLG as we continue to build on five decades of advocacy in support of the South Bay,” said SVLG CEO Ahmad Thomas. “His insight and experience will help us accelerate our focus in San Jose and our efforts to cultivate an innovative, dynamic, and prosperous future for our region.”
With over 30 years of experience bridging public service and private industry, Jones brings deep roots in the South Bay community and extensive leadership expertise. He previously served as Vice Mayor of San Jose from 2015 to 2022, where he championed initiatives to close the digital divide, supported small and minority-owned businesses, and strengthened neighborhood equity. He also served as Chair of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority Board and President of the Cities Association of Santa Clara County.
“I’ve spent my career working to ensure the South Bay thrives as a hub of innovation and a place where communities can thrive,” said Jones. “I’m honored to support SVLG’s efforts to strengthen the collaboration in our region between the private and public sectors.”
Jones’ appointment follows the organization’s historic $1.4 million investment from the San Francisco 49ers – the largest in SVLG’s five-decade history – underscoring a shared vision for shaping the Bay Area’s future, accelerating innovation, and strengthening community impact.
This strategic appointment is part of a broader, rapid organizational expansion in San Jose for SVLG, with further impactful initiatives and additional announcements to be made public in the coming months.
For more information about career opportunities at SVLG, please visit svlg.org/careers.
About the Silicon Valley Leadership Group:
The Silicon Valley Leadership Group (SVLG) is the leading business association representing the innovation economy and its ecosystem. Founded by David Packard of Hewlett-Packard, SVLG has worked for nearly five decades to address issues that affect the region’s economic dynamism and quality of life. Today, SVLG is focused on accelerating the next era of Silicon Valley leadership, activated by our Institute for California AI Policy (ICAP) and three new Centers of Expertise (COE): Technology & Innovation, Business Competitiveness, and Civic Impact. SVLG members collectively provide nearly one of every three private sector jobs in Silicon Valley and contribute more than $3 trillion to the worldwide economy. For more information, visit svlg.org.
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