NYC School Construction Authority Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

NYC School Construction Authority has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and technology.

Driven by a commitment to educational infrastructure, NYC School Construction Authority manages the design, construction, and renovation of school facilities across New York City, ensuring safe and modern learning environments.

Leadership Roles at NYC School Construction Authority

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Lorraine Grillo
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Nina Kubota
  • Chief Operating Officer - Robert Sanft
  • President - Celeste Ramirez
  • Chief of Staff - Karen Maher
  • Chief Information Officer - Zeeshan Anwar
  • Lorraine Grillo - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Lorraine Grillo, the President & Chief Executive Officer at NYC School Construction Authority, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the organization. This leadership role involves guiding the design, construction, and renovation of all school facilities within New York City, ensuring alignment with educational goals and safety standards. Grillo oversees the integration of new building projects and the modernization of existing structures, impacting thousands of students and educators. The President & Chief Executive Officer drives the authority's mission to provide state-of-the-art learning environments. Lorraine Grillo's strategic vision ensures the efficient allocation of resources and the successful completion of critical infrastructure projects across the city. This executive is responsible for fostering key relationships with city officials and stakeholders to advance the authority's objectives and maintain its reputation for excellence in public works.

    Nina Kubota - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Nina Kubota, the President & Chief Executive Officer at NYC School Construction Authority, spearheads the strategic direction and comprehensive management of the authority's extensive portfolio. This critical position involves overseeing the entire lifecycle of school facility projects, from initial design conceptualization through to final construction and renovation phases. Kubota ensures that all initiatives adhere to stringent quality, safety, and budgetary requirements, directly contributing to the enhancement of educational spaces for New York City's students. The President & Chief Executive Officer drives innovation in construction methodologies and project management. Nina Kubota's leadership focuses on optimizing operational efficiency and maximizing the impact of capital investments. This executive is pivotal in navigating complex regulatory landscapes and stakeholder expectations to deliver modern, functional, and inspiring learning environments across the five boroughs.

    Robert Sanft - Chief Operating Officer

    Robert Sanft, the Chief Operating Officer at NYC School Construction Authority, directs the comprehensive operational framework governing the design, construction, and renovation of school facilities. This executive oversees the execution of all capital projects, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards across New York City. Sanft manages the complex logistical challenges inherent in large-scale public works, optimizing resource allocation and project management methodologies. The Chief Operating Officer is responsible for the efficient functioning of construction sites and the coordination of all external contractors and vendors. Robert Sanft's leadership ensures that the authority delivers safe, modern, and effective learning environments. This executive drives operational efficiency and continuous improvement in project delivery, directly impacting the educational infrastructure of the city.
    Robert Sanft

    Celeste Ramirez - President

    Celeste Ramirez, the President at NYC School Construction Authority, drives the strategic vision and operational execution for the organization's critical mission. This leadership position involves overseeing the design, construction, and renovation of school facilities throughout New York City, ensuring the delivery of safe and modern learning environments. Ramirez manages key stakeholder relationships and guides the authority's efforts to meet the evolving needs of students and educators. The President is instrumental in setting organizational priorities and fostering a culture of excellence. Celeste Ramirez's leadership focuses on strategic planning and the efficient deployment of resources to achieve project milestones. This executive ensures that all construction and renovation projects align with the authority's commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure across the city.
    Celeste Ramirez

    Karen Maher - Chief of Staff

    Karen Maher, the Chief of Staff at NYC School Construction Authority, provides critical strategic support and operational oversight to the executive leadership team. This role involves coordinating cross-departmental initiatives, managing key projects, and ensuring the efficient execution of the authority's strategic priorities. Maher facilitates communication and collaboration among various divisions, streamlining workflows and enhancing organizational effectiveness. The Chief of Staff plays a vital part in policy development and implementation, ensuring that operational activities align with the authority's mission. Karen Maher's focus is on optimizing internal processes and driving operational excellence across all facets of the organization. This executive is instrumental in managing the day-to-day operations and ensuring that the President & Chief Executive Officer's vision is translated into tangible results for New York City's school facilities.

    Zeeshan Anwar - Chief Information Officer

    Zeeshan Anwar, the Chief Information Officer at NYC School Construction Authority, leads the strategic development and implementation of information technology infrastructure and systems. This executive is responsible for enhancing the authority's technological capabilities to support the design, construction, and renovation of school facilities across New York City. Anwar oversees the management of data, digital platforms, and cybersecurity measures, ensuring operational efficiency and data integrity. The Chief Information Officer drives innovation in technology adoption, streamlining project management processes and improving communication channels. Zeeshan Anwar's focus is on leveraging technology to optimize resource utilization and enhance decision-making. This executive ensures that the authority's IT systems are robust, secure, and aligned with its core mission of providing state-of-the-art educational facilities.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding NYC School Construction Authority Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads NYC School Construction Authority?
    NYC School Construction Authority is led by Lorraine Grillo (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Nina Kubota (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Robert Sanft (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of NYC School Construction Authority’s executive team?
    The executive team of NYC School Construction Authority includes leaders such as Lorraine Grillo (President & Chief Executive Officer), Nina Kubota (President & Chief Executive Officer), Robert Sanft (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does NYC School Construction Authority have?
    NYC School Construction Authority has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in NYC School Construction Authority’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of NYC School Construction Authority includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Chief of Staff.