COMMERCE PROGRAM COORDINATOR

Date: May 27, 2026

Req ID: 57628

Location:

Little Rock, AR, US, 72202

Category: AR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMM

Anticipated Starting Salary: $57,351.01

Position Summary

The Commerce Program Coordinator will function as Office Manager and is responsible for the operations of AEDC, including but not limited to administrative duties, planning staff events, coordinating travel and meetings, and serving as the planner, primary liaison, and secretary to the Arkansas Economic Development Council.

This position requires on-site employment with no remote or hybrid options available.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in leading the operational functions of an organization.
The ability to balance many projects at once.
The ability to connect and work well with leaders from across the state.

Job Responsibilities and Expected Results

Responsible for the operational functions of the organization including maintaining car books and the scheduling of conference rooms.

Responsible for special projects including assistance with events and agency initiatives.

Responsible for maintaining supplies in the break room.

Responsible for taking minutes and compiling reports for the Arkansas Economic Development Council.

Responsible for leading the planning of Arkansas Economic Development Council Meetings.

Responsible for serving as the primary liaison to building services, M&R, etc.

Position Information

Job Series: Program Operations – Commerce Programs

Classification: Commerce Program Coordinator

Class Code: PCO01P

Pay Grade: SGS07

Salary Range: $57,351 – $84,879

Job Summary

The Commerce Program Coordinator is responsible for planning, implementing, and monitoring commerce-focused initiatives designed to foster economic development and strengthen the local business environment. This role involves coordinating programs and projects that connect businesses, community organizations, and government agencies while managing budgets and resources, ensuring program compliance, and measuring the impact of these initiatives. In essence, the coordinator acts as a central hub that drives initiatives to enhance the vitality of commerce and deliver strategic, community-oriented outcomes.

Primary Responsibilities

Design, plan, and implement commerce-related programs or projects. Develop strategic goals and timelines to meet organizational objectives. Monitor program progress, adjust strategies as needed, and evaluate outcomes to ensure effectiveness. Collaborate with local businesses, community groups, economic development organizations, and governmental agencies. Organize meetings, workshops, and events to foster relationships and enhance program participation. Oversee budget preparation and allocation for commerce initiatives. Track expenditures and prepare detailed financial reports. Ensure the effective use of resources in accordance with established guidelines. Develop and execute outreach strategies to promote program initiatives. Coordinate public relations efforts, including social media, community newsletters, and website updates. Assist with grant writing and securing funding from external sponsors where applicable. Maintain comprehensive program records and documentation. Prepare regular progress and performance reports for senior management. Use data analytics to monitor program outcomes and inform future decisions.

Knowledge and Skills

Proficiency in common office suites (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Suite) and familiarity with project management or data analytics tools. Strong written and verbal communication skills to facilitate effective networking and reporting. Excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to identifying and overcoming challenges.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Economics, Finance, or a related field.

Minimum of 4 years of experience in program coordination, project management, economic development, or a similar role is essential.

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/A OTHER 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.