PUBLIC SERVICE DIVISION DIRECTOR

State of Arkansas•Little Rock, AR

9d•$114,390 - $169,298

About The Position

The Public Service Division Director leads, manages, and oversees the strategic direction and daily operations of a public service division within the State of Arkansas. The role ensures effective program implementation, policy compliance, stakeholder engagement, and operational efficiency. In this position, the director leads the Audits team of the Commission’s General Staff in reviewing complex utility accounting and financial issues affecting rates, including revenues and expenses, capital investment, depreciation, affiliate transactions, cost allocations, and accounting adjustments. The director provides guidance on generally accepted accounting principles, utility regulatory accounting, FERC accounting requirements, and the Uniform System of Accounts. The position reviews work papers, discovery, exhibits, testimony, and technical recommendations to ensure General Staff conclusions are accurate, adequately supported, and consistent. The director testifies as an expert witness in Commission proceedings and serves as the General Staff’s lead auditor.

Requirements

At least seven years of experience in public administration, government operations, program management, or a related field, including three years in a leadership capacity.
Strong strategic planning and visionary skills.
Decision-making expertise focused on long-term impact and sustainability.
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
Strong public relations and advocacy skills.
Expertise interpreting and enforcing public policies, laws, and regulations.
Ability to analyze legislative and regulatory changes and implement 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.
Other job-related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of the basic requirements, except certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the Qualifications Review Committee.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement the division’s strategic vision, policies, and goals 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 support 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 improve efficiency and effectiveness.
Represent the division in public forums, legislative hearings, and interagency collaborations.
Communicate program initiatives, updates, and key decisions to 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 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.
Lead the General Staff Audits team in reviewing utility accounting and financial issues affecting rates.
Provide guidance on generally accepted accounting principles, utility regulatory accounting, FERC accounting requirements, and the Uniform System of Accounts.
Review work papers, discovery, exhibits, testimony, and technical recommendations for accuracy, support, and consistency.
Testify as an expert witness in proceedings before the Commission and serve as the General Staff’s lead auditor.