Deputy Secretary for Energy & Environment

Job Description:

The New York State Executive Chamber seeks a highly motivated individual to serve as Deputy Secretary for Energy and Environment. The Deputy Secretary will report to the Director of State Operations and will manage an immediate team of Assistant Secretaries, as well as work in close coordination with senior staff in the Governor’s Executive Chamber. The Deputy Secretary will have a portfolio of state agencies related to energy and environment and will oversee agency operations to ensure they are in line with the Governor’s vision and direction.

Duties:

• This position reports to the Director of State Operations and provides support and oversight of various state agencies including Department of Environmental Conservation, Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation, Department of Public Service, New York State Energy Research & Development Authority, and New York Power Authority.
• Acts as a liaison between agencies in the portfolio and Chamber senior staff.
• Works with the program area team in the Division of Budget regarding funding programs and initiatives, including participation in budget and legislative negotiations.
• Consults with communications teams to advise on press inquiries and announcements, as applicable.
• Consults with Chamber counsels assigned to energy and environment, as applicable.
• Consults with non-governmental agencies, organizations, and stakeholder groups within program area.
• Supports cross-agency projects, data identification, and data analysis.
• Prepares position papers, testimony, and communications.
• Conducts special studies and assists in the development, implementation, and review of new policy initiatives.
• Attends meetings, site visits, seminars, conferences, and conventions convened within program area in Albany and around the state.
• Reviews and authorizes rulemakings and other regulatory actions within program area.
• Prepares and reviews briefing materials, legislative proposals, budget initiatives, remarks, and other such materials as may be required.
• Performs related duties as requested.

Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree and at least 10 years of full-time, professional experience with a focus on public administration, public policy, social work, health policy, social services, or related topics. A master’s degree in a related field or Juris Doctor may substitute for one year of this experience. A strong interest and knowledge in the energy and environment field is highly desirable.

Preferred Skills:

• Track record of strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage complexity, arrive at the appropriate solutions and insights and synthesize key findings in a rapid fashion
• Commitment to public service and social services
• Broad experience in policy development and operations
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel