Crilhien Francisco is a mission-driven finance and public policy professional with over 15 years of experience across government, nonprofit, and health sectors. He brings a deep commitment to equity, impact, and building systems that work better for those most often left behind.

Raised in the South Bronx, Crilhien’s early life experiences—including immigrating from the Dominican Republic, coming out, navigating homelessness, and having an incarcerated parent—shaped his passion for public service. 

He began his career in healthcare and community organizing before spending over a decade at the NYC Council’s Finance Division, overseeing budgets, analyzing legislation, and driving initiatives focused on immigrant services, public health, and economic development. At the NYC Council he rose to the level of Assistant Director of the Finance Division where he oversaw 20 financial staff and was part of the council leadership team managing the Council’s role in NYC budget. Most recently, he served as Director of Finance at the New York Jobs CEO Council, managing finance and strategy for a nonprofit focused on workforce equity. 

He serves on the boards of the New York Foundation and Equality Charter School.

Crilhien holds an MPA in Health Policy and Management and a BA in Latin American/Latino Studies and Gender & Sexuality Studies, both from NYU.

Outside of work, he enjoys reading, fitness, concerts, traveling to new places and a dash of reality TV.