Director of Cost Allocation and Rate Design Section
This is a key management position reporting to the Executive Director of the General Staff, and requires substantial regulatory experience, proven expertise as an expert witness, and demonstrated excellence in leadership across technical disciplines and across utility industries (electric, gas, and water). This position directs the overall operations and planning of section expert witnesses, serves as project manager on all energy efficiency, distributed energy resources, and related dockets ensuring the timely and comprehensive development of the General Staff's recommendations to the Commission. Serves as lead witness in this section. This position contributes policy direction regarding cost allocation and rate design concepts and principles, allocation of utility costs to various rate classes, design of utility rates measurement of the customer effect of any proposed rate changes, analyzes and interpretation of accounting, financial, and economic information, identification and analysis of potential regulatory issues. This position routinely plans and coordinates work as part of multi-disciplinary, cross-sectional teams. This job requires extensive team coordination with internal personnel, professional and executive-level utility personnel, expert utility consultants, and other parties.
Position Information
Job Series: Public Service Utility Regulation – Competitive
Classification: Public Service Division Director
Class Code: PPU04C
Pay Grade: SPC08
Salary Range: $114,390 - $169,298
Job Summary
The Public Service Division Director is responsible for leading, managing, and overseeing the strategic direction and daily operations of a key public service division within the State of Arkansas. This position ensures effective program implementation, policy compliance, stakeholder engagement, and operational efficiency.
Primary Responsibilities
Develop and implement the strategic vision, policies, and goals for the division in alignment with state agency objectives.
Provide executive leadership in managing division programs, operations, and public service initiatives.
Direct and oversee budgets, resource allocation, and performance metrics to ensure operational effectiveness.
Ensure compliance with state and federal laws, regulations, and policies governing public services.
Oversee the development, execution, and evaluation of division programs to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
Represent the division in public forums, legislative hearings, and interagency collaborations.
Communicate program initiatives, updates, and key decisions effectively to both internal and external audiences.
Develop and manage the division’s budget, funding allocations, and financial reporting.
Ensure responsible fiscal stewardship and cost-effective program management.
Identify funding opportunities, grants, and revenue sources to support division programs.
Monitor and evaluate key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational benchmarks.
Lead the division’s response to emergencies, critical incidents, and public service challenges.
Implement risk management strategies to mitigate operational disruptions.
Address complex issues and resolve conflicts efficiently and diplomatically.
Knowledge and Skills
Strong visionary and strategic planning skills for shaping division priorities.
Decision-making expertise with a focus on long-term impact and sustainability.
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills for engaging with stakeholders and the public.
Strong public relations and advocacy skills to promote division initiatives.
Expertise in interpreting and enforcing public policies, laws, and regulations.
Ability to analyze legislative and regulatory changes and implement necessary program adjustments.
Experience in policy development and implementation at the state level.
Experience in budget planning, financial oversight, and grant management.
Knowledge of state procurement processes and fiscal accountability.
Ability to streamline operations and improve program efficiency.
Strong critical thinking skills to resolve programmatic and administrative challenges.
Ability to manage crisis situations and make high-stakes decisions under pressure.
Minimum Qualifications
At least seven years of experience in public administration, government operations, program management, or a related field, including three years in a leadership capacity.
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.
Preferred qualifications include degree in economics, mathematics, and/or other related discipline. Experience with econometric modeling, energy efficiency concepts, and utility rate design concepts preferred. Ability to build excel models desired.
