Review Vacancy
AgencyPublic Service, Department of
TitleDirector/Consumer Advocate
Occupational CategoryAdministrative or General Management
Bargaining UnitM/C - Management / Confidential (Unrepresented)
Salary RangeFrom $125915 to $155944 Annually
Minimum Qualifications The New York State Department of Public Service is developing a new consumer advocacy organization, and is seeking a Director to lead this effort. This consumer advocate will serve in a senior leadership position, reporting directly to the Chair of the Public Service Commission. Candidates should have experience and passion for addressing consumer concerns and the ability to manage a diverse group of professional and administrative staff. This person must be a strategic and innovative thinker with a proven ability to develop complex policies, and the capability of navigating potentially controversial situations. The candidate must be an effective speaker, presenter, and writer; a strong advocate who is able to balance competing concerns; and a person who exhibits sound executive judgment.
Duties Description The functions to be performed include the following:
(1) Zealously advocating for consumer policy matters, including low-income and special needs programs, service quality, advanced technologies including renewable and energy efficiency, and other timely policy-related development.
(2) Representing consumer interests in regulatory proceedings and policy matters before the Commission.
(3) Coordinating and interacting with external entities, including those representing residential and commercial interests.
(4) Actively resolving consumer complaints, including managing a call center that assists consumers by ensuring that utilities comply with applicable consumer protection rules and regulations. Complaints may involve informal hearings and appeals to the Commission if the residential or business consumers are not satisfied with the initial complaint determination.
Additional Comments Preferred Qualifications:
While there is a preference for candidates to have an understanding of the energy, water and telecommunications industries, along with consumer advocacy experience, consideration will be given to candidates with engineering, law, or business backgrounds and experience with government or public service. Candidates should have a least a master's degree in a relevant subject area.
The primary location for this position is flexible, either in New York City or Albany, with travel to the other location on a regular basis.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.