COMMERCE PROGRAM SUPERVISOR/EXPERT

State of Arkansas•Little Rock, AR

7d•$63,086 - $93,367•Onsite

About The Position

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. The Commerce Program Supervisor/Expert will function as the Program Advisor, assigned to the Office of Adult Education. The Program Advisor will provide technical assistance and program monitoring to adult education programs and literacy councils in an Arkansas region through annual site visits, program reviews, and desk audits. Statewide and out-of-state travel, including some overnight, is required. Irregular work hours are expected, which may include some weekend work. This position requires on-site employment with no remote or hybrid options available.

Requirements

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.
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.
Master’s degree in Education, Communications, Journalism, Business, Social Science, or a related field.
Four years of experience in education or work directly related to the assigned program area.
Three years of experience in teaching, training, or program management.
Experience in adult education.
Experience working with special populations, including English language learners, adult learners, and at‑risk students.
Demonstrated initiative and ability to work independently.
Strong analytical skills and sound judgment.
High level of motivation and integrity.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Strong interpersonal and public presentation skills.
Strong organizational and management skills with attention to detail.
Knowledge of federal and state laws related to educational licensure.
Knowledge of educational program development, teaching principles, and presentation techniques.
Ability to interpret and apply federal and state regulations.
Ability to research, design, modify, and conduct educational programs.
Ability to evaluate applications and supporting documentation.
Ability to present information clearly to diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

Provide technical assistance to adult education programs and literacy councils by interpreting federal and state regulations, answering questions, resolving problems, and advising local programs.
Evaluate program effectiveness through annual on-site visits, program reviews, and desk audits to ensure program compliance; advise local program administration personnel of violations, recommendations, and commendations.
Review and analyze program status and accountability reports for compliance and performance.
Monitor and approve federal and state grant budgets, amendments, expenditure reports, and project applications for adult education and literacy council programs.
Write comprehensive reports; participate in the submission of federal and state reports; assist in writing policies and procedures, state plans, and other internal documents, including succession plans.
Develop and recommend new and revised policies and procedures to respond to changes in programs, service needs, objectives, and priorities, and improve operational effectiveness.
Assist in data matching and in calculating state and federal funding for programs.
Facilitate and/or lead workshops and presentations during local meetings and professional conferences.
Coordinate, develop, and implement ongoing continuous professional development and technical assistance for adult education and literacy council administrators and other instructional personnel to support planning and improvement of educational programs.
Coordinate adult education programs and services with educational institutions, businesses, industries, and community and professional organizations to ensure adherence to administrative directives and to maximize integration and delivery of programs and services.
Protect the integrity of all confidential client, student, and employee information.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
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.