Right-Sizing the Business Office: Staffing for Strong Segregation of Duties

Robert Cordero is the leader of PKF O’Connor Davies’ education and independent school practices and has more than 18 years of experience in public accounting. He specializes in auditing and business consulting, working with several types of organizations, including educational institutions, foundations, general charities, and other fee-for-service not-for-profits, including national and international organizations. Cordero is a frequent lecturer and presents continuing professional education courses to members of the firm’s staff. He has authored numerous accounting articles and is a member of the firm’s Governance Committee. Recently, Cordero has had the honor of being identified as one of the Westchester Business Council’s 2016 Rising Stars and received the “Forty under Forty” award.

Dr. Theresa Foy is Chief Financial and Operating Officer at Green Vale School, an independent school serving students from pre-nursery through eighth grade, where she oversees finance, human resources, facilities, and food services. Before joining Green Vale, Theresa held CFOO roles at Collegiate School and Buckley Country Day School. Earlier in her career, she spent many years in corporate leadership at Cablevision, including launching and leading MSG Varsity, an Emmy-winning network covering high school sports. Theresa serves on NBOA’s Board of Directors and is a trustee and finance committee chair at Archbishop Molloy High School. She previously served on the NYSAIS Business Affairs Council and is an active participant in NYSAIS accreditation visits. Theresa holds a bachelor’s degree from Providence College, an MBA from NYU Stern, and a doctorate in education from the University of Pennsylvania, where her dissertation examined hiring practices for women leaders in education.

Pamela Goldman MacAffer returned to Rye Country Day School in July of 2021 to assume the senior administrative position of Assistant Head for Finance and Operations. Prior to this, Ms. MacAffer served primarily as the Chief Financial and Operations Officer at The Albany Academies (The Albany Academy and Albany Academy for Girls). In this leadership role, she was responsible for managing all aspects of the school's daily operations, annual budgeting, financial reporting, and human resources. During her tenure, she oversaw eight multi-million-dollar capital projects. In 2007, Ms. MacAffer also played a major role in the successful merger of The Albany Academy and Albany Academy for Girls. Ms. MacAffer’s involvement in school life extends beyond business operations. She has served as Dean of Students, Director of Enrollment Management, Faculty member in Leadership and Economics, Advisor, and Chief Development Officer at Albany Academy for Girls. She possesses broad and deep knowledge about various aspects of independent school communities.