The Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority (PICA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Marisa Waxman as its new Executive Director. Ms. Waxman will succeed the retiring Executive Director, Harvey Rice, and assume the leadership of PICA effective October 30, 2023.

Marisa Waxman brings a wealth of experience and expertise in public finance and government administration to her new role as Executive Director. She most recently served as the Director of State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) in the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Recovery Programs. In this capacity, she oversaw $350 billion allocated to cities and states in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, a testament to her proven ability to navigate complex fiscal challenges.

Before her federal role, Ms. Waxman served as the Budget Director for the City of Philadelphia, where she managed a budget exceeding $9 billion in capital and operating expenditures. Her dedication to equity in budgeting and community engagement has left an indelible mark on Philadelphia's financial landscape. Her extensive career in public service in Philadelphia includes serving as First Deputy Revenue Commissioner and positions within the Office of the City Controller, Office of the Finance Director, and Office of Property Assessment.

“The PICA Board is excited to have Marisa Waxman as the new Executive Director,” said PICA Board Chair Kevin Vaughan. “Both her experience and vision will expand on PICA’s already significant work.”

Marisa Waxman's commitment to effective public administration extends beyond her work in Philadelphia. She has previously held positions with the New York City Department of Finance and the Economy League of Greater Philadelphia, where she contributed to research, budget analysis, and government performance improvements.

Ms. Waxman holds a Bachelor's degree and a Master of City Planning from the University of Pennsylvania. She is also an active member of the American Planning Association, maintaining accreditation with the American Institute of City Planning (AICP), and has been involved in numerous civic and nonprofit organizations in Philadelphia.

Upon the retirement of Harvey Rice, who has served as Executive Director of PICA with distinction for 9 years, the Authority acclaims his unwavering commitment to sound financial management and intergovernmental cooperation. Under his leadership, PICA has played a vital role in ensuring fiscal responsibility and stability for the City of Philadelphia. Under Mr. Rice’s leadership, PICA has published monthly city revenue and obligations reports, quarterly and annual overtime reports as well as many comprehensive studies such as “Review of the City of Philadelphia Police Court Overtime,” “Update on the City of Philadelphia’s DROP Program,” and “COVID-19 Impact on City Employee Separations.”

“The PICA Board has had an extraordinary Executive Director in Harvey Rice,” said Vaughan. “We’re thankful for everything he has done to bring PICA to this place where we can make a smooth transition between two excellent leaders.”

Marisa Waxman's appointment as Executive Director signifies an exciting new chapter for PICA. Her extensive experience and dedication to fostering equitable financial practices align perfectly with PICA's mission to enhance the fiscal health of Philadelphia. The Authority looks forward to her leadership and the continued pursuit of its crucial mission.

“Harvey Rice has been a tremendous leader for PICA and we are grateful for his time and expertise,” said PICA Vice Chair Alan Kessler. “Having worked with Ms. Waxman in her prior roles, I know that the subject matter expertise and energy that she’ll bring to the role will build upon Mr. Rice’s work to support Philadelphia’s ongoing fiscal stability in the years to come.”