COMMERCE PROGRAM SUPERVISOR/EXPERT

Date: May 5, 2026

Req ID: 57119

Location:

Little Rock, AR, US, 72202

Category: AR DEPARTMENT OF AERONAUTICS

Anticipated Starting Salary: $63,085.98

Position Summary

The Commerce Program Supervisor / Expert position will function as the Assistant Director. The Assistant Director is responsible for turning plans into results, maintaining relationships, and making sure projects, funding, and people all stay aligned with the agency core objectives.

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

Preferred Qualification

Active pilot certificate with current FAA medical.
Bachelor’s degree in aviation, public administration, business, or related field (or equivalent experience).
3+ years in aviation (airport ops/management, planning, or similar).
Strong knowledge of airports, FAA programs, and aviation issues.
Great communication skills and ability to work well with partners statewide.
Comfortable in public speaking.
Experience with FAA or state aviation programs.
Grant or project management background.
Master’s degree in aviation or public administration.
Aviation emergency response experience.

Job Responsibilities and Expected Results

Responsibilities:

Partnering with the Director to manage daily operations and programs.
Assisting airports with funding, planning, and development projects.
Administering aviation grants and ensuring projects stay on track.
Representing the agency with airports, FAA, elected officials, and industry partners.
Taking the lead on special projects like system planning, strategic planning, or aviation emergency operations.
Stepping in as Acting Director when needed.

Expected Results:

Efficient and Consistent Agency Operations
Daily operations run smoothly with minimal disruption, clear internal coordination, and timely decision-making in support of agency goals.
Strong Partnership with the Director
The Director is effectively supported through proactive problem-solving, informed recommendations, and shared leadership of key initiatives.
Effective Grant Administration
Grant programs are managed with accuracy, transparency, and accountability, ensuring compliance with all state and federal requirements.
Positive Stakeholder Relationships
Strong, professional relationships are maintained with airports, FAA representatives, elected officials, and industry partners, enhancing trust and collaboration.
Clear and Credible Agency Representation
The agency is consistently represented in a knowledgeable, responsive, and professional manner in meetings, public settings, and industry events.
Advancement of Strategic Initiatives
Special projects (e.g., system planning, workforce development, emergency preparedness) are successfully led from concept to implementation with measurable outcomes.
Continuity of Leadership
Seamless transition of authority occurs when serving as Acting Director, with no interruption in agency performance or stakeholder confidence.

Position Information

Job Series: Program Operations – Commerce Programs

Classification: Commerce Program Supervisor / Expert

Class Code: PCO04P

Pay Grade: SGS08

Salary Range: $63,086 – $93,367

Job Summary

The Commerce Program Supervisor / Expert is a senior-level role accountable for the design, implementation, and strategic oversight of commerce programs that drive economic growth and community development. This role requires an individual who can work as a subject matter expert, bridging policy, business interests, and community needs to craft and execute initiatives that stimulate commerce, improve market engagement, and ensure sustainable development. The supervisor / expert serves as the linchpin in aligning efforts, managing extensive budgets, and delivering measurable improvements across commerce-related initiatives.

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. Design, develop, and execute comprehensive commerce programs that address community and business development goals. Establish and monitor strategic objectives, performance metrics, and timelines to ensure programs are aligned with organizational priorities. Continually assess market trends and regulatory environments to adapt programs for optimal impact. Serve as a trusted liaison between local businesses, government entities, community organizations, and internal teams. Organize and lead meetings, workshops, and conferences to facilitate dialogue, secure input, and drive collaborative projects. Build and nurture long-term partnerships that foster a dynamic ecosystem for commerce initiatives. Develop and manage program budgets, ensuring responsible allocation and use of financial resources. Monitor expenditures, prepare financial reports, and maintain strict adherence to fiscal guidelines and compliance requirements. Identify funding opportunities, assist with grant writing, and secure external sponsorships to support program sustainability. Oversee day-to-day program activities, ensuring smooth operations and timely execution of deliverables. Use data analytics and performance feedback to monitor program outcomes and identify areas for improvement. Compile, analyze, and present detailed performance reports for senior management and other key personnel. Mentor and supervise program personnel, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development. Champion innovative approaches and best practices in program coordination and economic development. Represent the program at industry events, professional forums, and community outreach events as a recognized expert in the field.

Knowledge and Skills

Ability to analyze complex market data and trends to inform program strategies and drive innovation. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with a proven track record of engaging a variety of assorted personnel. Demonstrated expertise in utilizing project management tools and financial software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, customer relationship management systems, data analytics platforms) to streamline operations and reporting. Capacity to thrive in dynamic environments, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and quickly adapt to emerging challenges without compromising quality or compliance.

Minimum Qualifications

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

Minimum of 6 years of experience in program coordination, project management, economic development, or a similar role is essential.

Proven experience in managing large-scale, multi-participant commerce projects, including budget oversight, performance measurement, and regulatory compliance.

Experience working in environments that require high-level strategic planning and community engagement 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.

Nearest Major Market: Little Rock

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