Pittsburgh Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Pittsburgh Public Schools has 5 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, human resources, external affairs, and administration.

Driven by a commitment to educational excellence, Pittsburgh Public Schools focuses on creating exceptional learning experiences and eliminating racial disparities, while engaging the community in the educational process to help every student reach their full potential.

Leadership Roles at Pittsburgh Public Schools

  • Chief Financial Officer - Ronald Joseph
  • Public Schools Chief of Staff (Pittsburgh) - Lamar Blackwell
  • External Affairs Chief of Staff - Lisa Fischetti
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Margaret Rudolph
  • Chief Operations Officer - Michael McNamara
  • Ronald Joseph - Chief Financial Officer

    Ronald Joseph, the Chief Financial Officer at Pittsburgh Public Schools, directs all fiscal operations and financial strategy for the district. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the efficient management of funds to support educational programs and student services across Allegheny County. This leadership role involves developing financial models that align with the district's mission of creating equitable opportunities and eliminating racial disparities. By optimizing expenditures and exploring revenue streams, Ronald Joseph directly impacts the district's capacity to provide enrichment activities and social-emotional development resources. Ultimately, Joseph safeguards the financial integrity of Pittsburgh Public Schools, enabling sustained investment in student success and community engagement.
    Ronald Joseph

    Lamar Blackwell - Public Schools Chief of Staff (Pittsburgh)

    Lamar Blackwell, the Public Schools Chief of Staff (Pittsburgh) at Pittsburgh Public Schools, manages strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the district. Overseeing key projects and ensuring seamless execution of administrative directives, the Public Schools Chief of Staff (Pittsburgh) facilitates communication between executive leadership and various departments. This role is critical in advancing the district's mission to create exceptional learning experiences and eliminate racial disparities. By coordinating efforts and driving progress on critical objectives, Lamar Blackwell directly supports the provision of comprehensive educational programs and career preparation services. Ultimately, Blackwell enhances the operational efficiency of Pittsburgh Public Schools, contributing to equitable opportunities for over 20,000 students.

    Lisa Fischetti - External Affairs Chief of Staff

    Lisa Fischetti, the External Affairs Chief of Staff at Pittsburgh Public Schools, leads strategic outreach and stakeholder engagement initiatives. Overseeing communications, community relations, and partnership development, the External Affairs Chief of Staff ensures robust engagement with parents, community members, and external organizations. This position is vital for advancing the district's mission to involve the community in the educational process and foster collaborative relationships. By cultivating strong external connections and managing public perception, Lisa Fischetti directly supports the district's commitment to providing equitable opportunities. Ultimately, Fischetti strengthens the external support network for Pittsburgh Public Schools, amplifying its impact on student success and social-emotional development.

    Margaret Rudolph - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Margaret Rudolph, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Pittsburgh Public Schools, directs all aspects of workforce management and talent development. Overseeing recruitment, employee relations, compensation, and benefits, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures a skilled and dedicated team supports the district's educational goals. This role is fundamental to fostering a positive and productive work environment, aligning with the mission to create exceptional learning experiences and eliminate racial disparities. By implementing effective HR strategies and talent acquisition programs, Margaret Rudolph directly contributes to attracting and retaining high-quality educators and staff. Ultimately, Rudolph strengthens the human capital of Pittsburgh Public Schools, enabling the delivery of comprehensive support services and career preparation for students.

    Michael McNamara - Chief Operations Officer

    Michael McNamara, the Chief Operations Officer at Pittsburgh Public Schools, oversees the district's extensive operational infrastructure and logistical functions. Directing facilities management, transportation, food services, and safety protocols, the Chief Operations Officer ensures a conducive and secure learning environment for over 20,000 students. This position is crucial for executing the district's commitment to providing equitable opportunities and resources. By optimizing operational efficiency and resource deployment, Michael McNamara directly supports the delivery of educational programs and student services across Pennsylvania. Ultimately, McNamara enhances the physical and logistical framework of Pittsburgh Public Schools, enabling the effective implementation of its mission and fostering student success.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Pittsburgh Public Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Pittsburgh Public Schools?
    Pittsburgh Public Schools is led by Ronald Joseph (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Lamar Blackwell (Public Schools Chief of Staff (Pittsburgh)) and Lisa Fischetti (External Affairs Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Pittsburgh Public Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Pittsburgh Public Schools includes leaders such as Ronald Joseph (Chief Financial Officer), Lamar Blackwell (Public Schools Chief of Staff (Pittsburgh)), Lisa Fischetti (External Affairs Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Pittsburgh Public Schools have?
    Pittsburgh Public Schools has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Pittsburgh Public Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Pittsburgh Public Schools includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Public Schools Chief of Staff (Pittsburgh), External Affairs Chief of Staff, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Operations Officer.