Paul Gurley is a staff accountant at Brooklyn Bridge Park, focusing on financial operations that allow the Park to proceed with its daily operations.
“I would say [my favorite part of the job] is providing management with useful information,” Paul said. “I take pride in making sure my work is correct, and that I understand my work as well. And because there are a lot of times when members from different departments or my team come and ask me things about my work, it’s up to me to explain in an easy manner to someone who doesn’t know about finances.”
Paul works with a small team: Chief Financial Officer Liz Verostek, Deputy Director of Finance Lesley Luard, and Controller/Strategic Operations Lead Evan Aanerud.
“I really love Liz and the way she leads the team,” Paul said. “I think it’s a pretty transparent environment where everyone seems to get good feedback, and they’re able to take in criticism, and also to be better the next day – and it’s also pretty fun as well!”
Paul’s favorite annual staff tradition at BBP is the All-Staff Potluck, which takes place before Thanksgiving and honors the cultural backgrounds of the staff. Many staff members bring in a dish to share their traditions from home – in 2025, there were 17 countries represented.
“The reason I love the All-Staff Potluck is because it’s a time when every member of [BBP] can take pride in where they’re from, by the meal that they choose to bring,” he said. “I get to learn about different cultures … I also love the fact that it’s a relaxed environment, I can connect with people I don’t usually.”
In addition to the Potluck, Paul enjoys being at the Park on the Fourth of July, specifically when the Macy’s fireworks display is visible from the piers like it was last year. He said it was a very cool experience as a BBP employee.
“I was so proud … it seemed like everyone in Brooklyn was there,” he said.
Paul’s favorite spot in Brooklyn Bridge Park is Empire Fulton Ferry Lawn, right next to Jane’s Carousel and overlooking the water. Outside of work, he enjoys playing the piano.