Deputy Commissioner - Department of Health

About the role

The Vermont Department of Health is seeking a dynamic, experienced public health leader to serve as Deputy Commissioner. This executive-level role is an opportunity to shape the future of public health across Vermont by providing strategic direction, operational leadership, and policy guidance across a diverse portfolio of programs.

Responsibilities

• Help advance the Department's mission, vision, and strategic priorities
• Advises the Commissioner on key public health issues
• Serves as Acting Commissioner when needed
• Provide leadership and direction to senior staff
• Ensure programs are effective, grounded in science, and aligned with Department goals
• Lead during public health emergencies and communicate critical information
• People Leadership & Workforce Development
• Supervise Division and Unit Directors
• Support staff development, performance management, and succession planning
• Partner with HR on complex personnel matters
• Budget & Resource Management
• Collaborate on budget development and fiscal oversight
• Support legislative funding requests
• Ensure alignment and compliance of grant funding
• Community Engagement & Communication
• Serve as a spokesperson as needed
• Represent the Department in public forums, committees, and meetings
• Build strong partnerships with agencies, community organizations, and policymakers
• Health Equity Champion
• Ensure health equity across all programs and initiatives
• Ensure equity is embedded in policies, planning, grants, and service delivery

Qualifications

• Master's degree in public health, public administration, healthcare administration, or related field
• Significant leadership experience in public health or human services
• Demonstrated supervisory and organizational leadership experience
• Preferred Skills & Expertise
• Deep understanding of the role of government in public health
• Experience working with state/local leaders and policymakers
• Strong background in managing complex public health programs
• Experience with public communication, legislative testimony, and media engagement
• Able to navigate political and stakeholder environments effectively
• Knowledge of data-driven decision-making and performance evaluation
• Strong financial and human resource management skills
• Experience in government settings (federal, state, or local) preferred

Benefits

The statutory salary range for this position is $120,189 to $180,284. Starting salary is negotiable based on education and experience.

Pay

The statutory salary range for this position is $120,189 to $180,284. Starting salary is negotiable based on education and experience.

Schedule

N/A