The Pingry School Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

The Pingry School has 4 executives leading key functions including financial strategy, fiscal control, operational management, and institutional leadership.

Committed to academic excellence and character development, The Pingry School fosters a rigorous college preparatory environment for students from Kindergarten through Grade 12 across its New Jersey campus.

Leadership Roles at The Pingry School

  • Chief Financial Officer - John Pratt
  • Chief Financial Officer & Controller & Director, Finance & Director, Tax - Alicia Sharma
  • President - Brian Combias
  • Chief Financial & Operating Officer - Olaf Weckesser
  • John Pratt - Chief Financial Officer

    John Pratt, the Chief Financial Officer at The Pingry School, directs the long-term fiscal health and budgetary planning for the institution. Pratt manages the allocation of resources to support the school's expansive academic and extracurricular programs. By overseeing the endowment and capital expenditure projects, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the sustainability of the campus infrastructure. John Pratt collaborates with the Board of Trustees to align financial policies with the broader mission of providing a premier college preparatory education. This leadership role involves rigorous oversight of institutional assets and the implementation of cost-effective strategies to maintain high standards of excellence. Through careful analysis of enrollment trends and operational expenses, the Chief Financial Officer secures the financial foundation necessary for future growth. Pratt maintains transparency in all fiscal reporting, ensuring that the school remains a stable and thriving environment for students in Kindergarten through Grade 12.

    Alicia Sharma - Chief Financial Officer & Controller & Director, Finance & Director, Tax

    Alicia Sharma, the Chief Financial Officer & Controller & Director, Finance & Director, Tax at The Pingry School, manages the daily accounting operations and tax compliance frameworks. Sharma executes precise financial reporting and internal auditing to maintain institutional integrity. As the Director, Finance, Alicia Sharma optimizes cash flow management and monitors departmental budgets to ensure alignment with the school's strategic goals. The Chief Financial Officer & Controller & Director, Finance & Director, Tax also handles complex tax filings and regulatory requirements, mitigating risk for the organization. By streamlining financial workflows, Sharma enhances the efficiency of the business office. This role requires constant coordination with external auditors and internal stakeholders to uphold rigorous financial standards. Through meticulous attention to detail, Sharma supports the school's mission by providing accurate data for decision-making. The Chief Financial Officer & Controller & Director, Finance & Director, Tax ensures that all fiscal activities remain compliant with state and federal regulations.

    Brian Combias - President

    Brian Combias, the President at The Pingry School, provides the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire institution. Combias leads the executive team in advancing the school's mission of academic excellence and character development. As the President, Brian Combias engages with the broader community, including alumni, parents, and prospective families, to strengthen the school's reputation and market position. This leadership role involves setting long-term goals for curriculum development and faculty recruitment to ensure the school remains at the forefront of K-12 education. Combias works closely with the Board of Trustees to define the institutional culture and uphold the values established since 1861. By fostering a collaborative environment, the President ensures that all departments remain aligned with the core objective of preparing students for success in college and beyond. Combias drives the strategic initiatives that define the school's impact on the educational landscape in New Jersey.

    Olaf Weckesser - Chief Financial & Operating Officer

    Olaf Weckesser, the Chief Financial & Operating Officer at The Pingry School, integrates financial planning with the management of physical campus operations. Weckesser oversees the maintenance of facilities and the logistical support required for a high-performing educational environment. As the Chief Financial & Operating Officer, Olaf Weckesser drives initiatives to modernize campus infrastructure, ensuring that classrooms and athletic spaces meet the needs of a diverse student body. This leadership role involves balancing the operational budget with the strategic investment in new technologies and campus improvements. Weckesser coordinates with administrative teams to optimize the use of school resources, fostering an environment conducive to learning. By managing vendor relationships and facility contracts, the Chief Financial & Operating Officer maintains the high quality of the school's physical assets. Weckesser ensures that all operational activities support the overarching goal of providing a world-class college preparatory experience for every student.
    Olaf Weckesser

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding The Pingry School Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads The Pingry School?
    The Pingry School is led by John Pratt (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Alicia Sharma (Chief Financial Officer & Controller & Director, Finance & Director, Tax) and Brian Combias (President).
    Who is part of The Pingry School’s executive team?
    The executive team of The Pingry School includes leaders such as John Pratt (Chief Financial Officer), Alicia Sharma (Chief Financial Officer & Controller & Director, Finance & Director, Tax), Brian Combias (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does The Pingry School have?
    The Pingry School has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in The Pingry School’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of The Pingry School includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Controller & Director, Finance & Director, Tax, President, Chief Financial & Operating Officer.