MercyFirst Executive and Leadership Team

Renee Skolaski, the President & Chief Executive Officer at MercyFirst, directs the organization's overarching strategy and vision. Skolaski guides the executive team in executing the mission of providing integrated care for traumatized and neglected children, teenagers, and their families. This leadership role involves ensuring the financial health and operational integrity of all MercyFirst programs, including Family Support Programs, Foster Homes and Adoption Services, Treatment Family Foster Care, Community-based Group Homes, Mother/Child Residences, and Campus-based Residential Treatment Programs. Skolaski's strategic direction ensures alignment with the founding principles of the Sisters of Mercy, driving impact across Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk counties. The President & Chief Executive Officer champions innovation in service delivery, adapting programs to meet evolving community needs and maintaining MercyFirst's position as a leading not-for-profit human service agency. Renee Skolaski's leadership ensures sustained growth and effective service provision.

Juanita Padilla, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at MercyFirst, oversees the day-to-day operations of all service delivery programs. Padilla ensures the effective implementation of the integrated continuum of care for children, teenagers, and families across all service sites. This leadership position involves managing the operational aspects of Family Support Programs, Foster Homes and Adoption Services, Treatment Family Foster Care, Community-based Group Homes, Mother/Child Residences, and Campus-based Residential Treatment Programs. The Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer drives operational improvements, focusing on efficiency and quality of care to support traumatized and neglected individuals. Padilla's responsibilities include resource management, staff oversight, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory standards across Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk counties. Juanita Padilla's operational leadership is fundamental to MercyFirst's mission.

Katya Lanfant, the Chief of Staff at MercyFirst, manages strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across the organization. Lanfant facilitates communication and collaboration between departments, ensuring seamless execution of the President & Chief Executive Officer's directives. This role involves overseeing special projects, optimizing internal processes, and supporting the executive leadership team in achieving key performance indicators. The Chief of Staff plays a critical part in translating strategic goals into actionable plans, driving progress in areas such as program development and resource allocation. By coordinating efforts across Family Support Programs, Foster Homes and Adoption Services, and residential treatment facilities, Lanfant enhances the overall effectiveness of MercyFirst's services. Katya Lanfant's focus on operational excellence supports the agency's commitment to serving children and families throughout Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk counties.

Achim Kretschmer, the Chief Technology Officer & Senior VP, Information Technology at MercyFirst, directs the organization's technology strategy and infrastructure. Kretschmer leads the development and implementation of IT solutions that support the agency's mission of providing care for children, teenagers, and families. This role encompasses managing all aspects of information technology, including data security, system integration, and digital transformation initiatives across all program areas. The Chief Technology Officer & Senior VP, Information Technology ensures that technology enhances service delivery, operational efficiency, and data management for Family Support Programs, Foster Homes and Adoption Services, and residential treatment facilities. Kretschmer's expertise drives innovation in technological capabilities, supporting MercyFirst's reach throughout Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk counties. Achim Kretschmer's technology leadership strengthens the agency's operational backbone.