Economic Development Director Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary
The Economic Development Supervisor / Expert will function as the Director of Military and Defense Industry Affairs. The Director provides leadership in the state's efforts to support growth and enhancement of the military presence in Arkansas and works to execute a statewide defense industrial base strategic plan to grow and strengthen Arkansas' defense industry. The Director works to improve the state's military-friendly environment for service members, military dependents, military retirees and businesses that bring mission-related jobs to the state, and to position Arkansas for a positive future Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) action.
This position requires on-site employment with no remote or hybrid options available.
Preferred Qualifications
It is preferred that the Director have the necessary qualifications to perform the duties of the office, including but not limited to prior senior leader military experience having attained the rank of a Senior Officer within a branch of the armed forces or extensive civilian military or defense contractor experience.
It is desired to have an understanding of Federal and DoD funding systems and processes as well as a keen understanding of the National Defense Strategy to recognize opportunities in mission growth and defense-related industries.
Job Responsibilities and Expected Results

1. Lead, develop and execute a statewide defense industrial base strategic plan to grow and strengthen Arkansas' defense industry.

• • Work alongside the AEDC Business Development team on the recruitment and expansion of defense related companies.

1. Coordinate state and local efforts to protect and enhance the state's military installations; seek opportunities for mission growth.

• • Encourage the preservation and expansion of military missions to the state.
  • Coordinate state and local efforts to maximize the state's input into the Federal Base Alignment and Closure process.
  • Act as a liaison to the state's congressional delegation on defense, military and BRAC issues.
  • Work alongside the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs and the Arkansas National Guard to support military friendly initiatives. Example: Review and make recommendations for state policies that affect Arkansas' military facilities, service members, veterans and retirees.
  • Initiate and sustain collaborative partnerships with military commanders and localities.
  • Coordinate the Governor's Military Affairs Committee to provide technical advice and assistance.
  • Prepare and submit a report of activities, findings and recommendations annually to the Governor and legislative committees.

1. Support overall economic development efforts for the military and defense industry.

• • Educate the general public, public officials, etc. on the economic impact of the state's military installations, including making public presentations as needed.
  • Coordinate the state and local efforts to enhance the quality of life of all branches of military personnel stationed in or deploying from Arkansas and their families living or working in Arkansas.
  • Manage the Military Affairs Grant Program in accordance with legislation and in coordination with the Governor's Military Affairs Committee.

1. Perform other duties as assigned.

Position Information
Job Series: Program Operations - Economic Development
Classification: Economic Development Supervisor / Expert
Class Code: PED04P
Pay Grade: SPC07
Salary Range: $103,991 - $153,907
Job Summary
The Economic Development Supervisor / Expert is a senior-level strategist and subject matter authority responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and executing large-scale economic development initiatives. This role provides high-level expertise by analyzing market trends, developing innovative growth strategies, and forging robust public-private partnerships. The supervisor / expert serves as a trusted advisor to governmental agencies, private enterprises, and community organizations, driving transformative projects that stimulate investment, reinforce local economic resilience, and secure long-term sustainable growth.
Primary Responsibilities
The assignment of supervisory duties is determined by the hiring agency's operational needs. Non-supervisory roles will serve as senior technical experts.Lead the formulation of comprehensive economic development strategies that align with pre-determined objectives.Oversee project lifecycle management from ideation, strategic planning, and implementation through to evaluation and continuous improvement.Develop long-term roadmaps that anticipate market shifts and emerging economic trends.Conduct advanced economic and demographic research, including feasibility studies and competitive analysis, to identify key growth opportunities.Leverage statistical models and data analytics to forecast economic impacts and support strategic decision-making.Cultivate and manage dynamic relationships with government officials, business leaders, and investors.Negotiate and secure multi-sector collaborations and funding opportunities, including grants, incentives, and public-private partnerships.Advise on policy reforms and regulatory frameworks that facilitate business development, job creation, and regional investment.Develop customized programs that enhance local competitiveness, promote entrepreneurship, and optimize resource allocation.Design and implement financial models to evaluate project return on investment, assess risk, and ensure fiscal sustainability.Identify and pursue varied funding mechanisms and investment channels to support economic initiatives.Represent the organization as a subject matter expert at industry conferences, workshops, and in media engagements.Mentor junior personnel and consultants, promoting knowledge sharing and best practices in economic development.Establish key performance indicators and rigorous reporting systems to track the progress of economic initiatives.Provide regular performance analyses and strategic recommendations to adjust project trajectories and achieve outcomes.
Knowledge and Skills
Ability to synthesize complex economic data and trends into strategic insights and actionable plans.Proficient in managing complex projects using contemporary project management methodologies and tools.Expertise in articulating complex ideas clearly through reports, presentations, and negotiations with a variety of assorted personnel.Strong capabilities in financial analysis, budgeting, and resource mobilization.Resourceful in developing innovative solutions to address multifaceted economic challenges.Demonstrated success in leading teams, mentoring peers, and functioning as a thought leader within the economic development sphere.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Community Development, Economics, or a related field.
Minimum of 10 years of work experience in economic development, government, community planning, or project coordination.
Experience coordinating projects or initiatives that involve collaboration between multiple entities, familiarity with local/regional economic trends, and a proven record of supporting business attraction or retention efforts.
Experience in policy analysis, financial modeling, and public-private partnership development.
Experience in successfully guiding large-scale initiatives that deliver measurable economic and community benefits.
Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee's demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.
Licensure/Certifications
N/AOTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.