MILITARY AFFAIRS DIRECTOR

Position Summary                                                                                                                         

The Director of Military Affairs provides leadership in the state’s efforts to support growth and enhancement of the military presence in Arkansas and works to improve the state’s military-friendly environment for service member, military dependents, military retirees and businesses that bring mission-related jobs to the state.  To position Arkansas for a positive future Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) action. The Director of Military Affairs also works to assist the AEDC Business Development team in growing the defense sector in Arkansas.

Education and Professional Work Experience                                                                       

Preferred Qualification

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. Coordinate state and local efforts to protect and enhance the state’s military installations; seek opportunities for mission growth.
   1. Encourage the preservation and expansion of military missions to the state.
   2. Coordinate state and local efforts to maximize the state’s input into the Federal Base Alignment and Closure process.
   3. Act as a liaison to the state’s congressional delegation on defense, military and BRAC issues.
   4. Review and make recommendations for state policies that affect Arkansas’ military facilities, service members, veterans and retirees.
   5. Initiate and sustain collaborative partnerships with military commanders and localities.
   6. Coordinate the Governor’s Military Affairs Committee to provide technical advice and assistance.
   7. Prepare and submit a report of activities, findings and recommendations annually to the Governor and legislative committees.
2. Support overall economic development efforts for the military and defense industry.
   1. Educate the general public, public officials, etc. on the economic impact of the state’s military installations, including making public presentations as needed.
   2. 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.
   3. Manage the Military Affairs Grant Program in accordance with legislation and in coordination with the Governor’s Military Affairs Committee.
3. Perform other duties as assigned.

Key Business Processes/Duties

1. Coordinate state and local efforts to protect and enhance the state’s military installations; seek opportunities for mission growth.
2. Support overall economic development efforts for the military and defense industry.
3. Perform other duties as assigned.