Michael R. Schmidt was nominated by Gov. Andrew Cuomo in January to be commissioner of the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, and was confirmed by the state Senate in June. Prior to his current position, Schmidt served as deputy secretary for economic development, where he oversaw policy and operations for 12 state agencies and authorities. He took the time to talk to The Trusted Professional and go over his policies and priorities. The Q&A has been edited for length and clarity.