Montpelier, Vt. – Governor Phil Scott today announced three leadership appointments: Kaj Samsom as commissioner of the Department of Financial Regulation (DFR), Jill Briggs-Campbell as deputy secretary of the Agency of Education (AOE) and Neil Kamman as deputy commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
Kaj Samsom, commissioner of the Department of Financial Regulation
Kaj Samsom has been named commissioner of the Department of Financial Regulation. Prior to his appointment, he served as chief auditor at the National Life Group. Samsom has over 14 years of experience in state government in a variety of positions at DFR and later serving as Tax commissioner in the Scott administration from 2017-2019.
“Kaj is a proven leader who brings a unique perspective having served in both the private and public sectors,” said Governor Phil Scott. “Kaj was a valuable member of my team in my first few years as Governor and I’m appreciative of his willingness to return to public service as commissioner.”
“I'm honored to have this opportunity to return to DFR and lead a talented and committed team in advancing the mission of consumer protection, education and availability of financial products and services,” said Samsom.
Samsom is a CPA and holds a Bachelors of Science as well as a Masters in Public Administration, both from the University of Vermont.
Jill Briggs Campbell, deputy secretary of the Agency of Education
Jill Briggs Campbell has been named deputy secretary of the Agency of Education after serving as interim deputy secretary. Prior to that, Briggs Campbell served as the director of operations at AOE and helped to lead the COVID-19 emergency response and worked across teams at AOE to manage over $500 million in federal funds.
“Jill’s operations experience has been valuable as we navigate transforming our education system so it works better for our kids and taxpayers,” said Governor Phil Scott. “I believe she will serve the Agency, Vermonters, and educators across the state well.”
“I am honored to continue serving in this role and look forward to working alongside our partners in the field as we navigate towards a more equitable, higher quality, and financially sustainable public education system,” said Briggs Campbell. “Strong relationships are the foundation of a strong education system, and I’m committed to strengthening both the Agency and our collaboration with educators, families, and communities to ensure the best outcomes for Vermont students."
Before joining state government, Briggs Campbell graduated from the University of California at Santa Barbara, with a Ph.D. in the history of science and medicine. She also holds a Master’s degree in history (UC Santa Barbara), a Masters in Teaching in History (University of San Diego), a teaching credential for secondary education and a Bachelor’s degree in art history and classical civilizations (UCLA).
Neil Kamman, deputy commissioner, Department of Environmental Conservation
Neil Kamman has been named deputy commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation. Kamman has over 30 years of experience at DEC, most recently serving as the director of Water Investment at DEC, overseeing grant and loan programs that support clean water and water infrastructure. Prior to that, Kamman served as the DEC senior policy advisor.
“Neil has a strong background in water resource management at the Department,” said Governor Phil Scott. “As a dedicated public servant for many years, I believe his experience will be an asset to the Department and Vermonters in this leadership position.”
“Over my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work in different ways on behalf of Vermonters, enjoying and thriving in a number of different jobs,” said Kamman. “This appointment is a great opportunity to give back to my colleagues by providing environmental leadership in a time of significant transition in the public sector.”
Kamman holds a Bachelors of Science in forestry and a Masters of Science in water resources, both from the University of Vermont. He has also authored over 30 peer-reviewed scientific publications.
###