A Message from the Commissioner
The New York State Department of Labor has undergone transformational change. Today we are a resilient and nimble organization, focused on the future and the many opportunities it will bring. To make the most of those opportunities, we have created this Department-wide strategic plan. Through this effort, we will ensure that our entire organization is fully aligned with Department priorities and has a clear path forward.
The Department has approached this work with intention. We have reflected on critical lessons learned in the recent past and engaged staff at all levels to inform our efforts. We have identified specific strategic goals and the key initiatives that will help achieve them.
As the Department steps into the future, we remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence. We work each day to serve the people and businesses of New York. Our ongoing efforts will ensure that New York remains a beacon of opportunity and prosperity for all. This roadmap is a testament to that commitment, and I am pleased to share it with you.
Values
The fabric of our organization is made up of our foundational values. These values reflect our organizational culture and the lens through which we view our important role as public servants.
Integrity and Trust: We believe in a work culture governed by ethical decision making, built on a foundation of accountability and honesty. We seek to be a name New Yorkers have confidence in by offering dependable service guided by the best interests of those we serve. We know that the right way is not always the easy way, but it is the only way.
Customer Service: We strive to meet our customers where they are by placing a premium on understanding the varied needs of each individual. We hold ourselves to a high standard of service, supported by a commitment to self-evaluation and workforce training, to effectively assist New York’s diverse populations.
Communication: We use a variety of platforms and cutting-edge technology to meet each New Yorker at their communication level and connect them to the information they need. We believe transparency and open discourse are key to our mission to improve the lives of all New Yorkers.
Innovation: We know that success hinges on a willingness to make big changes and embrace bold ideas. We have created a work culture where innovation is guided by data and research, and where we challenge ourselves to continuously engage, evaluate, and deliver improved services to all New Yorkers.
Equity: We believe in accessibility for all New Yorkers to assure they have a clear pathway to learn about any and all services we provide. We approach each case with empathy and an open mind, ready to provide a fair and equitable experience for every customer.
Strategic Goals
When creating the strategic plan, the leadership team took great time and care to develop the goals that will ultimately lead to a successful implementation. We gathered input from all divisions on what we are currently doing to serve New Yorkers every day and what we will strive to do in the future. The following goals encapsulate that work:
Protect all workers by enforcing labor laws, providing critical benefits, and creating an environment of awareness, accountability, and responsibility.
Improve customers’ experience by implementing modern business practices and programmatic initiatives to meet the diverse needs of those we serve, enhance service quality, and increase efficiency.
Set job seekers and businesses up for success by fostering innovation, and forging strategic partnerships as we prepare workers for quality and in-demand jobs.
Be a model employer as we prepare our own workforce for the future and build a supportive, flexible and inclusive work environment that attracts talented individuals and allows all employees to thrive.
Be the trusted expert for relevant and easily accessible data, knowledge, information, and services.
Be resourceful and responsible with public dollars, carefully aligning mission-critical activities, continuous improvement efforts, and data-informed decision-making.