Mayor Eric Adams has appointed Michael Sedillo as the executive director of the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services, tasking him with enhancing the city’s partnership with nonprofits and streamlining payment processes.

This move comes alongside major progress in addressing delays in payments to nonprofit providers, highlighted by the success of the Payment Backlog Initiative. Launched in October 2024, the initiative has cleared over $1 billion in payments and processed more than 3,700 invoices in three months.

Additionally, reforms to discretionary contract processes have reduced average payment times from 366 days in Fiscal Year 2024 to just 46 days in Fiscal Year 2025, a reduction of nearly 90%.

Mayor Adams expressed his gratitude for Sedillo’s leadership, stating, “Nonprofit workers never hesitate to answer the call from our city, whether it’s an international humanitarian crisis, a global pandemic, or helping a neighbor in need.

The last thing they should have to worry about is getting paid on time. Today’s announcement proves that reforms are working, cutting red tape and unlocking hundreds of millions for providers. Thanks to Michael Sedillo’s leadership, we are moving our city forward and ensuring nonprofits can continue their critical work without unnecessary delays.”

Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana Almanzar praised Sedillo’s proven ability to drive results and address bureaucratic challenges, saying, “His leadership will ensure timely payments and remove obstacles that prevent our nonprofit sector from operating at its full potential.”

Sedillo, reflecting on his new role, said, “I am a proud public servant with a clear North Star: Use the power of government to ensure people — especially those in need — understand they are not alone. To my fellow public servants and nonprofit partners: In me, you have an enthusiastic partner who will be here for you, just like you are there for New Yorkers.”

The Adams administration has introduced measures to address systemic delays, including the Nonprofit FOCUS Working Group, which convenes senior city officials weekly to oversee contract performance and make decisions to ensure timely payments. Other reforms include allowing nonprofits to enter into multi-year contracts, providing additional training to city agencies, and investing over $1.4 billion in wage enhancements for human services workers.

Sedillo’s appointment has been met with praise from nonprofit leaders and city officials. Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar said, “Michael Sedillo’s experience and commitment to cutting red tape will ensure nonprofits get the financial support they need.”

Grace Bonilla, President of United Way of New York City, noted, “This is the time to ensure the consistent sustainability of the nonprofit sector, as it is the backbone of the city’s most critical services.” Former Deputy Mayor J. Phillip Thompson added, “Michael is a ‘can do’ public servant who doesn’t let problems slip through the cracks. His leadership marks an exciting new chapter for the city and its vital nonprofit partners.”

Sedillo brings a wealth of experience from his public service career, which includes clearing $6 billion in overdue contracts and leading initiatives to create thousands of jobs for low-income New Yorkers.

His appointment marks a significant step toward strengthening the city’s nonprofit sector, ensuring timely payments, and fostering effective partnerships to deliver essential services to New Yorkers.