Job Specification Details

Administrative, technical, and coordinating work for the Cannabis Control Board involving issuing licenses and administering the adult use cannabis program.  Work is performed under the supervision of the Director of Licensing. 

Under the direction of the Director of Licensing, manages the Board’s adult use cannabis licensing program to ensure implementation of a safely regulated industry that creates entrepreneurial and employment opportunities to communities across Vermont. The Deputy Director of Licensing will fulfill the critical and challenging responsibility of certifying that license applicants are qualified and competent to operate an adult use Cannabis Establishment in Vermont consistent with the applicable statutes and regulations established by the Board. This role will oversee all aspects of licensing Cannabis Establishments and vetting Cannabis Establishment Agents for registration with the Board. Cannabis Establishments shall include at the outset: cultivation, wholesale, manufacturing, retail, testing laboratory, and integrated operations. New license types will likely be added over time. Oversees the Licensing team to foster the principles of the Board’s vision statement.  Ensures performance standards are achieved for staff and encourage professional growth. Serves as a liaison to system licensing system vendors, in collaboration with the Director of License, the Executive Director and other Board staff.  Makes recommendations on whether an applicant has met social equity qualification.  Makes recommendations of suitability for cannabis establishment license applicants and refers applicants for additional investigation if necessary. Evaluates and oversees the evaluation of all applications for licensure submitted to the Board to ensure the accuracy and sufficiency of all information submitted.  Certifies the licensing of Cannabis Establishments and registration of Cannabis.  Processes establishment employees and issues applicable documentation of proof. Reviews proposed cannabis and cannabis product packaging and labels for compliance with Board rule. Deploys and/or participates in investigations, inspections, compliance, and education actions to ensure Cannabis Establishments are in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and policies. Minimizes bias in the application process.  Enforces the collection of licensing fees and timely reporting of the same. Oversees the training of licensing personnel and working with stakeholder groups to understand the licensing, compliance, and enforcement processes. Develops training materials and programs for investigators, Board staff and external constituencies. Tracks and records performance metrics to ensure applications are processed efficiently and offering solutions to improve service delivery. Assists the Executive Director and Policy Enforcement Director in responding to inquiries about licensing, investigations, and enforcement. Helps to resolve licensing and/or licensing technology issues as needed. Develops policies and proposes revisions to comply with legislative and regulatory changes. Represents the Board effectively in interactions with Cannabis Establishment applicants, licensees, and registrants. Represents the Licensing team at meetings, when necessary. Ensures that the licensing operation is maintained within the Board’s budget, and working with vendors to ensure service is delivered efficiently and cost-effectively.  Supports the Board in managing the Licensing team to ensure all statutory deadlines are met. Keeps the Executive Director, Policy Enforcement Director, General Counsel and Commissioners informed about licensing and/or regulatory changes in other states. Performs related duties as assigned.

Duties are largely performed in a standard office environment.  Site visits may be necessary, and travel will be required.

Advanced working knowledge with licensing processes.

Advanced knowledge of the CCB Rules.

Working knowledge of computer information systems and data base software.

Working knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration.

Knowledge of Board’s mission, standards, and goals.

Ability to understand and apply statutes and regulations governing licensing administration processes and policies.

Ability to provide excellent technical assistance.

Ability to establish goals and monitor progress towards their achievement.

Proven excellence in providing service to customers or constituents.

Experience managing a team of employees.  

Experience building cultural competence among a team.  

Excellent communication and management skills with careful attention to detail.

Expert computer (i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint,) skills and background using electronic licensing systems and database.

Strong organizational and analytical skills, and ability to manage competing projects at the same time.

Comfortable working independently, as well as with teams; and experience working with people from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

Associate’s degree or higher in public administration, business management, or related field AND four (4) years or more of experience in project or operations management, business administration, public administration, performance improvement, or related field. 
OR
Seven (7) or more years of experience in project or operations management, business administration, public administration, performance improvement, or related field.

Master’s degree or higher.
Experience in compliance or risk management.