Mark Levine Appoints Key Staff for NYC Comptroller’s Office
Mark Levine has begun assembling his team for the New York City Comptroller’s Office as he prepares to take office. His appointments include several longtime staffers, reflecting his experience and commitment to the role. Levine will be officially sworn in on January 1 alongside key city officials.
Key Appointments in the Comptroller’s Office
- Aya Keefe – First Deputy Comptroller
- Matt Rubin – Chief of Staff
- Chris Carroll – Executive Deputy Comptroller
Aya Keefe previously served as Levine’s chief of staff during his tenure as a council member. She also worked under the Obama administration at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Matt Rubin, who was Levine’s campaign manager, has previous experience as deputy chief of staff in the Comptroller’s office under Scott Stringer. Chris Carroll, who held the chief of staff position in Levine’s borough president office, has been named executive deputy comptroller.
Continuity and New Leadership
Levine’s list includes 17 top appointees, with a significant number retained from outgoing Comptroller Brad Lander’s office. This continuity is designed to maintain effective operations within the office, which has a workforce of about 800. Key personnel staying include:
- Francesco Brindisi – Executive Deputy Comptroller
- Charlette Hamamgian – Deputy Comptroller for Contracts and Procurement
- Maura Hayes-Chaffe – Deputy Comptroller for Audits
- Jay Olson – Deputy Comptroller for Public Finance
- Krista Olson – Deputy Comptroller for Budget
- Justina K. Rivera – General Counsel and Deputy Comptroller for Legal Affairs
- Jacqueline Thompson – Deputy Comptroller for Accountancy
Additional appointments from Lander’s team include:
- Sandra Abeles – Chief Administrative Officer
- Claudia Henriquez – Assistant Comptroller for Labor Law
- Amy Slattery – Trustee and Assistant Comptroller for Pensions
- Kyshia Smith – Director of Executive Operations
New Additions to Leadership
While continuity is a focus, Levine has also introduced new talent. Alana Pilar Cantillo comes from Mayor Eric Adams’ budget office as Deputy Comptroller for Public Affairs. Jordan Stockdale, formerly Chief of Staff to the Manhattan District Attorney, will be Deputy Comptroller for Policy. Meanwhile, Monte Tarbox is appointed as interim Chief Investment Officer as the office seeks a permanent replacement.
Levine’s strategic appointments aim to build a robust team capable of addressing pressing challenges facing New York City. In his statement, he expressed enthusiasm for the diverse and talented group he has assembled. His prior experience will play a crucial role in tackling critical issues including economic uncertainty and governmental reforms.
Looking Ahead
As Levine prepares to take control, his primary focus will be safeguarding affordability, protecting residents from federal government actions, and ensuring effective local government. His commitment to these priorities is evident in his selection of experienced personnel for his leadership team.
