Pittsburgh Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to equity, Pittsburgh Public Schools focuses on creating exceptional learning experiences and eliminating racial disparities, engaging the community 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
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Margaret Rudolph
  • External Affairs Chief of Staff - Lisa Fischetti
  • 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 the budget allocation across PreK to Grade 12 programs, Joseph ensures financial stability and resource optimization to support student success. This leadership role involves managing expenditures, revenue streams, and financial reporting to stakeholders, aligning with the district's mission to provide equitable opportunities. By analyzing financial data, Ronald Joseph identifies areas for efficiency improvements and strategic investments in educational programs and support services. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to grant management and long-term financial planning, crucial for sustaining the district's commitment to eliminating racial disparities and fostering community engagement in education. Joseph's financial acumen underpins the district's capacity to deliver exceptional learning experiences across Allegheny County and Pennsylvania.
    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. Blackwell coordinates efforts to foster student success, ensuring that enrichment activities and social-emotional development resources are effectively implemented. This role involves facilitating communication between executive leadership and various departments, driving the district's mission to create exceptional learning experiences. By overseeing key projects and policy implementation, Lamar Blackwell supports the goal of eliminating racial disparities and enhancing career preparation for over 20,000 students. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include streamlining administrative processes and ensuring that community engagement efforts are integrated into the educational framework. Blackwell's strategic guidance is vital for Pittsburgh Public Schools' commitment to providing equitable opportunities and helping every student achieve their full potential.

    Margaret Rudolph - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Margaret Rudolph, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Pittsburgh Public Schools, leads all aspects of workforce management and talent development. Rudolph oversees recruitment, retention, and professional development strategies for educators and staff, directly impacting the district's ability to foster student success. This critical function ensures that the district attracts and retains high-quality personnel essential for delivering exceptional learning experiences. By developing comprehensive HR policies, Margaret Rudolph supports the mission to eliminate racial disparities and create an equitable environment for all employees. The Chief Human Resources Officer's purview includes employee relations, compensation, benefits, and compliance, all vital for maintaining a motivated and effective workforce. Rudolph's leadership in human resources is fundamental to Pittsburgh Public Schools' commitment to providing the resources necessary for every student to reach their full potential and for fostering strong community engagement.

    Lisa Fischetti - External Affairs Chief of Staff

    Lisa Fischetti, the External Affairs Chief of Staff at Pittsburgh Public Schools, directs strategic communications and community engagement initiatives. Fischetti cultivates relationships with external stakeholders, including parents, community organizations, and government agencies, to support student success and the district's educational mission. This role is pivotal in amplifying the district's commitment to creating exceptional learning experiences and eliminating racial disparities. By managing public relations and outreach programs, Lisa Fischetti ensures that community voices are integrated into the educational process. The External Affairs Chief of Staff's responsibilities encompass developing communication strategies, managing media relations, and coordinating public events that foster collaboration. Fischetti's efforts are instrumental in reinforcing Pittsburgh Public Schools' dedication to providing equitable opportunities and helping every student achieve their full potential through robust community partnerships.

    Michael McNamara - Chief Operations Officer

    Michael McNamara, the Chief Operations Officer at Pittsburgh Public Schools, oversees the district's extensive operational infrastructure and logistical support. McNamara directs facilities management, transportation, food services, and technology deployment, ensuring a safe and efficient learning environment for over 20,000 students. This leadership position is crucial for executing the district's mission to create exceptional learning experiences and eliminate racial disparities by providing necessary resources. By optimizing operational processes, Michael McNamara enhances the district's capacity to deliver support services and enrichment activities. The Chief Operations Officer's responsibilities include managing capital projects, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and driving efficiency across all operational departments. McNamara's strategic oversight is fundamental to Pittsburgh Public Schools' commitment to providing equitable opportunities and enabling every student to reach their full potential.

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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 Margaret Rudolph (Chief Human Resources Officer).
    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)), Margaret Rudolph (Chief Human Resources Officer) 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), Chief Human Resources Officer, External Affairs Chief of Staff, Chief Operations Officer.