PBS Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

PBS has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, technology, legal, and content production.

Driven by a commitment to education and culture, PBS connects communities through trusted programming and digital experiences, fostering lifelong learning and civic engagement across the nation.

Leadership Roles at PBS

  • Chief Executive Officer - Paula Kerger
  • Chief Financial Officer - Bernie Pope
  • Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer - Thomas Tardivo
  • Chief Operating Officer - Johnathan Barzilay
  • Immediate President and Executive Producer - Cari Stein
  • Chief Technology Officer - Scott Nourse
  • Vice President Chief Technology Officer - John Tollefson
  • Chief Legal Officer & Corporate Secretary - Jill Patrone
  • Paula Kerger - Chief Executive Officer

    Paula Kerger, the Chief Executive Officer at PBS, directs the overall strategy and vision for the organization. Overseeing all major initiatives, Kerger ensures PBS fulfills its mission of providing educational and cultural programming to the American public. This leadership role involves guiding content development, digital innovation, and strategic partnerships to expand reach and impact. By fostering collaboration across departments, Paula Kerger drives the organization's commitment to serving diverse audiences and strengthening community connections through trusted media. The Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses financial oversight, operational efficiency, and long-term planning, positioning PBS for continued relevance and growth in the evolving media landscape. Kerger's strategic direction ensures the organization remains a vital resource for learning and cultural enrichment nationwide.
    Paula Kerger

    Bernie Pope - Chief Financial Officer

    Bernie Pope, the Chief Financial Officer at PBS, manages the organization's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Overseeing all financial operations, Pope ensures robust resource allocation and fiscal responsibility across PBS initiatives. This critical role involves developing budgets, managing investments, and providing financial insights to support executive decision-making. By optimizing financial strategies, Bernie Pope directly contributes to the sustainability and growth of PBS's educational and cultural programming. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to financial reporting, risk management, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. Pope's expertise in financial management underpins the organization's ability to deliver on its public service mission effectively and efficiently across the United States.

    Thomas Tardivo - Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer

    Thomas Tardivo, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at PBS, directs the financial strategy and manages the organization's treasury functions. Overseeing fiscal operations and financial planning, Tardivo ensures the sound management of PBS's assets and resources. This dual role involves managing cash flow, investment portfolios, and financial reporting to stakeholders, supporting the organization's mission. By providing strategic financial guidance, Thomas Tardivo contributes to the long-term stability and growth of PBS's programming and services. The Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer's responsibilities include ensuring compliance with financial regulations and optimizing financial performance across all PBS activities. Tardivo's expertise underpins the organization's ability to operate effectively and fulfill its commitment to public broadcasting.
    Thomas Tardivo

    Johnathan Barzilay - Chief Operating Officer

    Johnathan Barzilay, the Chief Operating Officer at PBS, oversees the day-to-day operational functions and ensures seamless execution of organizational strategies. Managing critical infrastructure and internal processes, Barzilay drives efficiency and effectiveness across all departments. This leadership position involves optimizing resource utilization, streamlining workflows, and enhancing operational performance to support PBS's mission. By coordinating cross-functional teams, Johnathan Barzilay ensures that programming and digital initiatives are delivered effectively to audiences nationwide. The Chief Operating Officer's scope includes managing facilities, overseeing administrative services, and implementing operational improvements that enhance productivity. Barzilay's focus on operational excellence supports PBS's commitment to providing high-quality educational and cultural content.

    Cari Stein - Immediate President and Executive Producer

    Cari Stein, the Immediate President and Executive Producer at PBS, leads content development and production initiatives. Overseeing the creation of impactful programming, Stein ensures PBS delivers high-quality educational and cultural content to diverse audiences. This role involves guiding creative teams, managing production budgets, and shaping the editorial direction of PBS's offerings. By championing compelling storytelling, Cari Stein enhances PBS's mission to inform, educate, and inspire. The Immediate President and Executive Producer's responsibilities extend to identifying new content opportunities and fostering innovation in production techniques. Stein's leadership in content ensures PBS remains a trusted source for enriching programming across the United States.

    Scott Nourse - Chief Technology Officer

    Scott Nourse, the Chief Technology Officer at PBS, leads the technological vision and infrastructure development for the organization. Overseeing all aspects of technology, Nourse ensures PBS leverages cutting-edge solutions to deliver its programming and digital services effectively. This role involves driving innovation in broadcast technology, digital platforms, and data management to enhance audience engagement and operational efficiency. By architecting robust technological frameworks, Scott Nourse supports PBS's mission to reach diverse communities across the United States. The Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities include managing IT operations, cybersecurity, and the strategic implementation of new technologies. Nourse's leadership in technology ensures PBS remains at the forefront of media delivery and digital accessibility.
    Scott Nourse

    John Tollefson - Vice President Chief Technology Officer

    John Tollefson, the Vice President Chief Technology Officer at PBS, supports the strategic direction and execution of technology initiatives. Working closely with the Chief Technology Officer, Tollefson focuses on implementing and maintaining the technological infrastructure that powers PBS's broadcast and digital operations. This position involves overseeing specific technology projects, ensuring system reliability, and contributing to the overall technological advancement of the organization. By managing key technical resources, John Tollefson aids in the delivery of educational and cultural content to audiences nationwide. The Vice President Chief Technology Officer's contributions are vital to maintaining operational integrity and driving technological innovation within PBS. Tollefson's efforts ensure the seamless functioning of systems supporting PBS's public service mission.
    Jill Patrone, the Chief Legal Officer & Corporate Secretary at PBS, provides comprehensive legal counsel and oversees corporate governance. Managing all legal affairs, Patrone ensures PBS operates in compliance with federal and state regulations, safeguarding the organization's interests. This critical role involves advising on contracts, intellectual property, and regulatory matters impacting broadcast and digital operations. By guiding legal strategy, Jill Patrone supports the integrity and mission delivery of PBS nationwide. The Chief Legal Officer & Corporate Secretary's responsibilities include managing corporate records, facilitating board meetings, and mitigating legal risks. Patrone's legal expertise is essential for maintaining PBS's operational framework and upholding its commitment to public service.
    Jill Patrone

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding PBS Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads PBS?
    PBS is led by Paula Kerger (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Bernie Pope (Chief Financial Officer) and Thomas Tardivo (Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer).
    Who is part of PBS’s executive team?
    The executive team of PBS includes leaders such as Paula Kerger (Chief Executive Officer), Bernie Pope (Chief Financial Officer), Thomas Tardivo (Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does PBS have?
    PBS has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in PBS’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of PBS includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, Chief Operating Officer, Immediate President and Executive Producer.