Director of Finance & Economics

State of Vermont

• $95K — $115K *
Energy & Utilities
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in finance, accounting, economics, or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in finance and/or economics in a regulated environment.
  • 1+ year of supervisory experience.
  • Deep knowledge of utility cost-of-service principles and financial accounting methodologies.
  • Strong understanding of micro and macroeconomic principles applied to utility regulation.

Responsibilities

  • Lead financial and economic analyses to support the Department's mission.
  • Evaluate financial strengths and weaknesses of regulated utilities.
  • Provide expert analysis and testimony before the Vermont Public Utility Commission.
  • Conduct audits and manage consultants to deliver data-driven recommendations.
  • Collaborate with utility representatives, government officials, and the public on complex issues.

Benefits

  • 80% State paid medical premium; dental plan at no cost for employees and families.
  • 12 paid holidays per year and a generous leave plan for work/life balance.
  • State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI).
  • Two retirement saving options: a defined benefit pension plan and a 457(b) plan.
  • Tuition reimbursement and flexible spending accounts for healthcare and childcare.
Full Job Description
Overview

The Vermont Department of Public Service (PSD) is seeking a Director 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 Commissioner and directly supervises two financial assistants. The Director of Finance & 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 utility cost-of-service principles, 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, cost allocation, rate design, 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.

The full job specification can be viewed on the DHR website.

Who May Apply

This position, Director of Finance & Economics (Job Requisition #55843), is open to all State employees and external applicants.

Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.

Environmental Factors

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.

Minimum Qualifications

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.

Preferred Qualifications

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.

Total Compensation

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 and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
  • Work/Life balance: 12 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
  • State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
  • Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
  • Low cost group life insurance
  • 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.

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