Governor Scott Announced Vermont Administrative Appointments
The governor named four new leaders to positions within several state agencies and departments.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in People
Governor Phil Scott has appointed four individuals to new roles across the Vermont state administration. These leadership changes involve the Department of Human Resources, the Agency of Human Services, the Agency of Commerce and Community Development, and the Department of Tourism and Marketing.
Why it matters
These appointments fill key administrative roles essential for the continued operation of state agencies in Vermont. The leadership shifts reflect a reshuffling of responsibilities following personnel departures earlier this year.
The Department of Tourism and Marketing, now under interim leadership, oversees an industry that brings 16 million annual visitors to Vermont. This sector generates a $4.2 billion annual economic impact for the state.
The players
Phil Scott
He is the serving Governor of Vermont who announced the administrative appointments.
Shabnam Nolan
She previously served as the Executive Director of the King Street Center in Burlington since 2021.
Heather Pelham
She served as the commissioner of the Department of Tourism and Marketing since 2019 prior to her promotion.
Sara DeFilippi
She is the new interim commissioner for the Department of Tourism and Marketing with eight years of experience at the department.
Nick Kramer
He is the newly appointed Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Human Resources.
The details
Nick Kramer joins as the new Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Human Resources, while Shabnam Nolan will serve as the deputy secretary of the Agency of Human Services. Additionally, Heather Pelham was promoted to deputy secretary of the Agency of Commerce and Community Development, leading to the appointment of Sara DeFilippi as the interim commissioner of the Department of Tourism and Marketing.
Timeline
August 2026: Nikki Fuller left the Department of Human Resources.
September 30, 2026: Governor Phil Scott announced the administrative appointments.
October 19, 2026: Shabnam Nolan will begin her new role.
Market Landscape
These administrative changes occur as the state continues to manage the deployment of $10.4 million in EDA-ARPA funding. The new leadership team will play a critical role in maintaining the momentum established by previous economic initiatives.
These appointments ensure consistent management of state services and tourism promotion, which remain central to Vermont's broader economic health. Residents should not expect disruptions to agency services as the new appointees transition into their roles.
The takeaway
Effective state administration requires a stable leadership transition during periods of personnel turnover. These appointments aim to sustain the continuity of services while focusing on the state's significant tourism and human services sectors.
Further reading
Find more information on state personnel updates at Vermont People.
