National Multiple Sclerosis Society Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, finance, operations, marketing, and communications.

Driven by a commitment to eradicating MS, National Multiple Sclerosis Society mobilizes resources to accelerate research, improve quality of life, and provide comprehensive support for individuals and families impacted by the disease.

Leadership Roles at National Multiple Sclerosis Society

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Lisa Gerrol
  • Chief Financial Officer - Cynthia Bertrando
  • President, Jersey Metro - Yasmin Nielsen
  • Chapter President - Nicholas Mageras
  • President, Chapter - Julie Leggett
  • President - Emily Rios
  • Chapter President - Robert Hansen
  • Chief Information Officer - Sharay Erskine
  • Senior Vice President, Chief of Staff - Maura Burns
  • Chief Marketing & Communications Officer - Francesco Flaviis
  • Lisa Gerrol - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Lisa Gerrol, the President & Chief Executive Officer at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, directs the organization's overarching strategy and operational execution. Gerrol spearheads initiatives focused on advancing research, enhancing care, and bolstering support for the multiple sclerosis community. This leadership role involves mobilizing critical resources and expertise to accelerate the discovery of new treatments while simultaneously improving the quality of life for those living with the disease and their families. Overseeing the extensive network of programs and services, Gerrol ensures the Society effectively meets the diverse needs of individuals affected by MS. By fostering strategic partnerships with leading medical institutions and researchers, Gerrol drives progress in understanding disease mechanisms and developing innovative therapeutic approaches. The commitment to scientific advancement under Gerrol's guidance has significantly contributed to meaningful progress in disease management and patient outcomes over time. Lisa Gerrol's strategic vision ensures the organization remains at the forefront of the fight against MS.
    Lisa Gerrol

    Cynthia Bertrando - Chief Financial Officer

    Cynthia Bertrando, the Chief Financial Officer at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the nonprofit organization. Bertrando manages budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring the sustainable funding of research, care, and support initiatives. This critical role involves maintaining financial transparency and accountability across all programs and services designed to meet the diverse needs of the MS community. The Chief Financial Officer oversees the investment of significant resources toward understanding disease mechanisms and developing innovative therapeutic approaches, partnering with leading institutions to support clinical trials. Bertrando's meticulous financial oversight ensures that the Society can continue its commitment to scientific advancement and meaningful progress in disease management. By optimizing financial resources, Cynthia Bertrando directly supports the organization's mission to eradicate MS and improve patient outcomes. Bertrando's fiscal discipline underpins the Society's long-term impact.

    Yasmin Nielsen - President, Jersey Metro

    Yasmin Nielsen, the President, Jersey Metro at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, leads regional operations and strategic development for the Jersey Metro chapter. Nielsen drives initiatives focused on advancing research, care, and support for individuals affected by multiple sclerosis within the designated geographic area. This leadership position involves mobilizing local resources and expertise to accelerate treatment discoveries and improve the quality of life for those living with the disease and their families in the region. Overseeing the chapter's extensive network of programs and services, Nielsen ensures the Society effectively meets the diverse needs of the MS community in Jersey Metro. By fostering local partnerships and community engagement, Yasmin Nielsen enhances the organization's direct support initiatives, connecting individuals with counseling and educational resources. Nielsen's regional focus ensures localized impact and support for the MS community.

    Nicholas Mageras - Chapter President

    Nicholas Mageras, the Chapter President at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for a specific chapter of the organization. Mageras spearheads efforts to advance research, care, and support for individuals affected by multiple sclerosis within the chapter's service area. This leadership role involves mobilizing critical local resources and expertise to accelerate the discovery of new treatments while simultaneously improving the quality of life for those living with the disease and their families. Overseeing the chapter's extensive network of programs and services, Mageras ensures the Society effectively meets the diverse needs of the MS community locally. By fostering community engagement and partnerships, Nicholas Mageras enhances the organization's direct support initiatives, connecting individuals with essential resources and support systems. Mageras drives localized impact and community connection.

    Julie Leggett - President, Chapter

    Julie Leggett, the President, Chapter at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, leads the strategic direction and operational management for a designated chapter. Leggett champions initiatives aimed at advancing research, enhancing care, and providing robust support for individuals impacted by multiple sclerosis within the chapter's territory. This executive position involves galvanizing local resources and expertise to accelerate the development of new treatments and improve the quality of life for those navigating the challenges of MS. Overseeing the chapter's comprehensive suite of programs and services, Leggett ensures the Society's mission is effectively realized at the community level. By cultivating strong relationships with stakeholders and volunteers, Julie Leggett strengthens the organization's ability to offer direct assistance and educational opportunities. Leggett's leadership ensures vital support reaches those in need.

    Emily Rios - President

    Emily Rios, the President at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for a key segment of the organization's activities. Rios spearheads initiatives focused on advancing research, enhancing care, and providing comprehensive support for individuals affected by multiple sclerosis. This leadership role involves mobilizing critical resources and expertise to accelerate the discovery of new treatments while simultaneously improving the quality of life for those living with the disease and their families. Overseeing a significant network of programs and services, Emily Rios ensures the Society effectively meets the diverse needs of the MS community. By fostering strategic partnerships and driving program development, Rios enhances the organization's direct support initiatives and commitment to scientific advancement. Rios's leadership ensures impactful progress in MS care and research.
    Emily Rios

    Robert Hansen - Chapter President

    Robert Hansen, the Chapter President at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, leads the strategic planning and operational oversight for a specific chapter's engagement with the MS community. Hansen drives initiatives focused on advancing research, care, and support for individuals affected by multiple sclerosis within the chapter's jurisdiction. This executive role involves mobilizing local resources and expertise to accelerate the discovery of new treatments and improve the quality of life for those living with the disease and their families in the region. Overseeing the chapter's extensive network of programs and services, Robert Hansen ensures the Society effectively meets the diverse needs of the MS community locally. By fostering strong community ties and volunteer engagement, Hansen enhances the organization's direct support initiatives and educational outreach. Hansen's leadership ensures vital local support and advocacy.

    Sharay Erskine - Chief Information Officer

    Sharay Erskine, the Chief Information Officer at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, architects and manages the organization's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Erskine oversees the implementation of robust IT systems that support research, patient services, and operational efficiency across the Society's extensive network. This leadership position involves ensuring data security, optimizing technological resources, and driving innovation in information management to better serve the MS community. By leveraging technology, Erskine enhances the organization's ability to connect individuals with counseling, educational resources, and practical assistance. The Chief Information Officer also plays a crucial role in facilitating seamless communication and data sharing among patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and research partners. Erskine's focus on technological advancement directly supports the Society's mission to accelerate MS treatment discoveries and improve patient quality of life. Sharay Erskine ensures that technology serves as a powerful enabler for the organization's critical work.

    Maura Burns - Senior Vice President, Chief of Staff

    Maura Burns, the Senior Vice President, Chief of Staff at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the executive leadership team. Burns facilitates the execution of key organizational initiatives, ensuring alignment with the Society's mission to advance research, care, and support for individuals affected by multiple sclerosis. This role involves coordinating cross-functional efforts, managing critical projects, and enhancing the effectiveness of the organization's extensive network of programs and services. The Chief of Staff plays a pivotal part in mobilizing resources and expertise to accelerate treatment discoveries and improve patient quality of life. By streamlining operations and fostering collaboration, Maura Burns ensures that the Society effectively addresses the diverse needs of the MS community. Burns's strategic coordination directly supports the organization's commitment to scientific advancement and improved patient outcomes. Maura Burns drives operational excellence across the Society.

    Francesco Flaviis - Chief Marketing & Communications Officer

    Francesco Flaviis, the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at National Multiple Sclerosis Society, shapes and executes the organization's brand strategy and public relations efforts. Flaviis oversees the development and dissemination of messaging that advances the Society's mission to eradicate MS, improve quality of life, and mobilize resources for research and support. This leadership position involves managing all external communications, digital marketing campaigns, and media relations to effectively reach and engage the MS community, donors, and partners. The Chief Marketing & Communications Officer plays a crucial role in raising awareness, fostering advocacy, and communicating the impact of the Society's programs and services. By crafting compelling narratives and strategic campaigns, Francesco Flaviis enhances the organization's visibility and support for scientific advancement. Flaviis ensures clear, impactful communication across all platforms.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding National Multiple Sclerosis Society Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads National Multiple Sclerosis Society?
    National Multiple Sclerosis Society is led by Lisa Gerrol (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Cynthia Bertrando (Chief Financial Officer) and Yasmin Nielsen (President, Jersey Metro).
    Who is part of National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s executive team?
    The executive team of National Multiple Sclerosis Society includes leaders such as Lisa Gerrol (President & Chief Executive Officer), Cynthia Bertrando (Chief Financial Officer), Yasmin Nielsen (President, Jersey Metro) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does National Multiple Sclerosis Society have?
    National Multiple Sclerosis Society has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of National Multiple Sclerosis Society includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, Jersey Metro, Chapter President, President, Chapter.