Oklahoma Tax Commission Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

The Oklahoma Tax Commission has 10 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to public service, Oklahoma Tax Commission is dedicated to the efficient collection and administration of taxes, licenses, and fees, directly fueling essential state projects and services for all Oklahomans.

Leadership Roles at Oklahoma Tax Commission

  • Chief Financial Officer - Brianna Thomas
  • Manager of Apportionment and Revenue, Chief Financial Officer - Carol Schovanec
  • Comptroller & Chief Financial Officer - Brittany Stroud
  • Chief of Staff - Kirby Smith
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Abegail Cave
  • Chief Operations Officer - Sherry Killian
  • Chief Finance Officer - Russell Hulin
  • Contracting Acquisitions Agent III & Chief People Officer, 1 - Debbie Wilcox
  • Contracting Acquisitions Agent & Chief People Officer - Stella Pauley
  • Chief People Officer, Agency - LaKeesha Sirls
  • Brianna Thomas - Chief Financial Officer

    Brianna Thomas, the Chief Financial Officer at Oklahoma Tax Commission, directs the financial strategy and fiscal operations of the agency. Overseeing all financial planning, budgeting, and reporting, Thomas ensures the accurate collection and allocation of tax revenues. This leadership role involves managing the agency's financial health, safeguarding assets, and optimizing resource utilization to support state projects in education, transportation, and social welfare. By implementing robust financial controls and compliance measures, Brianna Thomas drives fiscal integrity and accountability across all departments. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to investment strategies and risk management, ensuring long-term financial stability for the commission's operations and its contribution to Oklahoma's public services.
    Brianna Thomas

    Carol Schovanec - Manager of Apportionment and Revenue, Chief Financial Officer

    Carol Schovanec, the Manager of Apportionment and Revenue, Chief Financial Officer at Oklahoma Tax Commission, oversees the critical functions of revenue apportionment and financial management. Schovanec directs the accurate calculation and distribution of tax revenues across various state programs, ensuring compliance with all fiscal regulations. This leadership position involves managing complex revenue streams and developing strategies to optimize collection efficiency. By meticulously analyzing financial data and market trends, Carol Schovanec ensures that the commission effectively supports state projects in education, transportation, and social welfare. The Manager of Apportionment and Revenue's expertise is vital in maintaining the financial integrity and operational effectiveness of the Oklahoma Tax Commission.

    Brittany Stroud - Comptroller & Chief Financial Officer

    Brittany Stroud, the Comptroller & Chief Financial Officer at Oklahoma Tax Commission, manages the agency's comprehensive financial reporting and accounting systems. Stroud ensures the accuracy and integrity of all financial records, overseeing audits and implementing internal controls to safeguard public funds. This role is pivotal in maintaining the fiscal health of the commission, supporting its mission to collect and administer taxes, licenses, and fees that fund essential state services. By directing accounting operations and financial analysis, Brittany Stroud provides critical insights for strategic decision-making. The Comptroller's focus on financial transparency and accountability is fundamental to the commission's role in supporting Oklahoma's infrastructure and public welfare initiatives.

    Kirby Smith - Chief of Staff

    Kirby Smith, the Chief of Staff at Oklahoma Tax Commission, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the executive leadership. Managing key initiatives and ensuring alignment across departments, Smith facilitates the efficient execution of the commission's mission. This role involves coordinating inter-agency communications, streamlining administrative processes, and driving special projects that enhance the collection and administration of taxes, licenses, and fees. By acting as a central point of contact for critical operational matters, Kirby Smith ensures that the commission's objectives are met effectively and efficiently. The Chief of Staff's focus remains on optimizing organizational performance and supporting the agency's commitment to fueling state projects through diligent revenue collection.

    Abegail Cave - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Abegail Cave, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Oklahoma Tax Commission, supports the Chief of Staff in managing the agency's strategic operations and administrative functions. Cave assists in coordinating critical projects, enhancing inter-departmental communication, and implementing operational improvements that bolster tax collection and administration. This position involves detailed analysis of agency processes and contributing to the development of policies that ensure efficient revenue management. By working closely with various departments, Abegail Cave helps to streamline workflows and support the commission's mandate of funding state services. The Deputy Chief of Staff's efforts are crucial in maintaining operational continuity and driving forward the agency's objectives for public service.

    Sherry Killian - Chief Operations Officer

    Sherry Killian, the Chief Operations Officer at Oklahoma Tax Commission, directs the day-to-day operational activities and administrative functions of the agency. Killian oversees the implementation of policies and procedures that ensure the efficient collection and administration of taxes, licenses, and fees. This leadership role involves optimizing departmental workflows, managing resources effectively, and driving operational excellence across all divisions. By focusing on process improvement and technological integration, Sherry Killian enhances the agency's capacity to support vital state projects. The Chief Operations Officer's strategic oversight is crucial for maintaining the commission's effectiveness in serving Oklahomans and contributing to the state's economic well-being.

    Russell Hulin - Chief Finance Officer

    Russell Hulin, the Chief Finance Officer at Oklahoma Tax Commission, leads the financial planning, analysis, and management of the agency's resources. Hulin is responsible for developing and executing financial strategies that support the commission's mandate of collecting and administering taxes, licenses, and fees. This executive position involves overseeing budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting to ensure fiscal responsibility and compliance. By providing strategic financial guidance, Russell Hulin contributes to the effective allocation of funds for state projects, including education, transportation, and social welfare. The Chief Finance Officer's dedication to financial stewardship is essential for the commission's ongoing success and its contribution to Oklahoma's public services.

    Debbie Wilcox - Contracting Acquisitions Agent III & Chief People Officer, 1

    Debbie Wilcox, the Contracting Acquisitions Agent III & Chief People Officer, 1 at Oklahoma Tax Commission, leads the human capital strategy and acquisition processes for the agency. Wilcox oversees the recruitment, development, and retention of personnel, ensuring the commission has the skilled workforce necessary to administer taxes, licenses, and fees effectively. This dual role involves managing procurement and contracting activities alongside human resources functions, driving efficiency in both areas. By fostering a positive work environment and implementing strategic HR initiatives, Debbie Wilcox enhances organizational capacity and employee engagement. The Chief People Officer's focus on talent management is critical for supporting the commission's mission and its contribution to state projects.

    Stella Pauley - Contracting Acquisitions Agent & Chief People Officer

    Stella Pauley, the Contracting Acquisitions Agent & Chief People Officer at Oklahoma Tax Commission, directs the agency's human resources functions and procurement operations. Pauley is responsible for developing and implementing strategies that attract, develop, and retain top talent, ensuring the commission's workforce is equipped to manage tax administration effectively. This role also encompasses overseeing contracting and acquisition processes, optimizing resource allocation and vendor relationships. By championing employee development and fostering a culture of excellence, Stella Pauley enhances the commission's operational capabilities. The Chief People Officer's strategic vision is integral to supporting the agency's mission and its vital role in funding state services.

    LaKeesha Sirls - Chief People Officer, Agency

    LaKeesha Sirls, the Chief People Officer, Agency at Oklahoma Tax Commission, spearheads the human resources strategy and talent management initiatives for the organization. Sirls oversees all aspects of employee relations, compensation, benefits, and professional development, ensuring the commission attracts and retains a high-caliber workforce. This leadership position is crucial for fostering an environment that supports the agency's mission of collecting and administering taxes, licenses, and fees. By implementing innovative HR practices, LaKeesha Sirls enhances organizational effectiveness and employee engagement. The Chief People Officer's commitment to people development is fundamental to the commission's ability to effectively serve Oklahomans and support state projects.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Oklahoma Tax Commission Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Oklahoma Tax Commission?
    Oklahoma Tax Commission is led by Brianna Thomas (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Carol Schovanec (Manager of Apportionment and Revenue, Chief Financial Officer) and Brittany Stroud (Comptroller & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Oklahoma Tax Commission’s executive team?
    The executive team of Oklahoma Tax Commission includes leaders such as Brianna Thomas (Chief Financial Officer), Carol Schovanec (Manager of Apportionment and Revenue, Chief Financial Officer), Brittany Stroud (Comptroller & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Oklahoma Tax Commission have?
    Oklahoma Tax Commission has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Oklahoma Tax Commission’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Oklahoma Tax Commission includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Manager of Apportionment and Revenue, Chief Financial Officer, Comptroller & Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff, Deputy Chief of Staff.