Deputy Commissioner - Department of Health

How to Apply

Please do not apply online.

Send your application materials directly to sarah.gregorek@vermont.gov

Overview

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.

As a key member of the Department's executive leadership team, the Deputy Commissioner partners closely with the Commissioner and senior leaders to set priorities, ensure effective program implementation, and strengthen systems that protect and promote the health and well-being of Vermonters.

About the Role:
The Deputy Commissioner provides high-level leadership across critical public health areas, including substance use programs, family and child health, health data and informatics, and chronic disease prevention. This role ensures organizational alignment and accountability while advancing innovative and equitable public health strategies.

You will collaborate across state government, work with legislators, and engage community partners to advance a comprehensive, cross-sector approach to health.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership
• Help advance the Department's mission, vision, and strategic priorities
• Advise the Commissioner on key public health issues
• Serve as Acting Commissioner when needed

Operations & Program Oversight
• 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 health equity across all programs and initiatives
• Ensure equity is embedded in policies, planning, grants, and service delivery

Compensation

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

Education & Experience

• 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
• Ability 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

Equal Opportunity Statement

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.

Nearest Major Market: Barre
Nearest Secondary Market: Montpelier