Deputy Commissioner for Public Health
Vermont Department of Health | State of Vermont

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 

For questions about the position, please email Sarah.Gregorek@vermont.gov.

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

About Vermont Department of Health

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including: •80% State paid medical premium •Dental Plan at no cost for employees and their families •Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts •Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan •Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan; many jobs also allow for a flexible schedule •Low cost group life insurance •Tuition Reimbursement •Incentive-based Wellness Program •Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website. AHS Affirmative Recruitment The Vermont Agency of Human Services strives to build a diverse and inclusive community. It is our fundamental belief that in order to create and sustain a healthier Vermont, we as an organization must honor the cultures, beliefs and values of those we serve in order to foster a...n environment of mutual respect, acceptance and equal opportunity. We are committed to building and maintaining a multicultural and diverse workforce which reflects the increasing diversity of Vermont. To view the State of Vermont's Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Policy, please click here. Equal Opportunity Employer The State of Vermont is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applications from women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and people from diverse cultural backgrounds are encouraged.

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Connections working at Vermont Department of Health