Chief of Finance & Economics

The Vermont Department of Public Service (PSD) is seeking a Chief of Finance & Economics to lead critical financial and economic analyses in support of the Department's mission to represent the public interest in utility matters.

This position reports to the Director for Public Advocacy and directly supervises two financial assistants. The Chief of Finance and Economics evaluates the financial strengths and weaknesses of regulated utilities and provides expert analysis and testimony before the Vermont Public Utility Commission. The work involves complex financial and economic assessments related to cost of service, rate base, cost of equity, rate of return, and rate design, ultimately determining whether proposed utility rates are just and reasonable under traditional and alternative ratemaking standards.

Ideal candidates will bring:

• Deep knowledge of financial accounting principles, cost accounting, depreciation, and cost study methodologies.
• Strong understanding of micro and macroeconomic principles and their application in utility regulation.
• The ability to master intricate policy and procedural issues related to rate setting, market restructuring, and state and federal regulatory frameworks.
• Experience conducting audits, managing consultants, and providing clear, data-driven recommendations.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly and persuasively.
• Strong collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with utility representatives, government officials, and the public.

This is a highly visible leadership role that directly impacts Vermont's energy and utility landscape.

This position, Chief of Finance & Economics (Job Requisition #53704), is open to all State employees and external applicants.
If you would like more information about this position, please contact Jim Porter at james.porter@vermont.gov.
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.

Duties are performed largely in a standard office setting, unless duly authorized for telecommuting, although trips to field sites may be necessary. Private means of transportation must be available for required travel. Involvement at hearings will occur regularly, involving testimony as an expert witness. Strong adversarial opinions will be encountered, requiring constant search for reasonable and defensible recommendations that recognize the legitimate interests of all affected parties. Duties may not always conform to regular office hours.

Bachelor's degree or higher in finance, accounting, economics, or related field AND five (5) or more years of experience in finance and/or economics in a regulated operating environment AND one (1) or more years of supervisory experience.

Graduate work in accounting, economics, business administration, or electrical engineering.

FERC, FCC and anti-trust experience is desirable.

Preference given to CMA, CFA, CFM or CPA certifications.

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 compensation457(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.

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.