RURAL SERVICES DIRECTOR at State of Arkansas in Little Rock, AR

Position Summary

The Director of Rural Services provides strategic leadership and oversight for programs and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life, infrastructure, and economic opportunities in rural communities throughout Arkansas. This role involves coordinating resources, developing partnerships, advocating for rural needs, and ensuring the effective delivery of services to underserved areas. The Director serves as a key advisor to other governmental agencies and community leaders, working to address challenges and promote sustainable development in rural regions. This classification requires visionary leadership, a deep understanding of rural issues, and a commitment to fostering equity and growth in rural communities.

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

Job Responsibilities and Expected Results

Management and administration of division operations includes coordinating activities, maintaining staff work schedules, and overseeing daily tasks. Provides input in developing and implementing goals, objectives, policies and procedures for the division.

Prepares and maintains annual division budget.

Researches and prepares reports on the division’s programs and presents to the Executive Director, the Rural Development Commission, and/or public officials.

Designs and executes the annual Arkansas Rural Development Conference including themes, session formats, vendor and sponsor relations, contract negotiations, onsite logistics, and promotional campaigns.

Oversees implementation of the Arkansas Rural Community Grant Program, Rural Services Block Grant Program, Community Assistance Grant program, and the Arkansas Game and Fish Wildlife Conservation Grant Program.

Serves as public relations/educational officer for AEDC and the Rural Development Commission, as needed.

Serves as the AEDC Rural Services representative on boards and commissions such as: the Joint Rural Fire Study Legislative Committee, Feral Hog Eradication Task Force, Arkansas Tobacco Settlement Commission, and the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management Federal Surplus Property Advisory Board.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Key Business Processes/Duties

1. Manages and administers division operations
2. Prepares and maintains budget for division
3. Researches and prepares reports for presentation
4. Designs, executes, and promotes the Arkansas Rural Development Conference
5. Oversees implementation of applicable grants
6. Serves as public relations/educational officer for division and commission
7. Other duties as assigned

Position Information

Job Series: Program Operations – Commerce Program Management

Classification: Rural Services Director

Class Code: PPE11C

Pay Grade: SPC05

Salary Range: $85,943 – $127,195

Job Summary

The Director of Rural Services provides strategic leadership and oversight for programs and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life, infrastructure, and economic opportunities in rural communities throughout Arkansas. This role involves coordinating resources, developing partnerships, advocating for rural needs, and ensuring the effective delivery of services to underserved areas. The Director serves as a key advisor to other governmental agencies and community leaders, working to address challenges and promote sustainable development in rural regions. This classification requires visionary leadership, a deep understanding of rural issues, and a commitment to fostering equity and growth in rural communities.

Primary Responsibilities

Lead the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs and services targeting rural areas. Collaborate with local, state, and federal agencies to identify and address the needs of rural communities. Develop and manage initiatives focused on economic development, infrastructure improvement, healthcare access, education, and workforce development in rural areas. Advocate for funding and policy support to benefit rural regions. Build partnerships with community organizations, businesses, and a variety of assorted personnel to enhance service delivery. Oversee the allocation of resources and manage the agency’s budget effectively. Represent rural interests in public forums and legislative hearings. Monitor trends and challenges in rural areas to inform strategic planning and policy recommendations. Supervise and mentor personnel, fostering a collaborative and results-driven work environment. Develop outreach and communication strategies to engage rural communities and raise awareness of available resources.

Knowledge and Skills

Exceptional leadership and team management abilities. Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Strong advocacy and public relations capabilities. Proficiency in grant writing, program evaluation, and resource development. Ability to navigate complex policy and regulatory environments.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, rural development, community planning, or a related field.

Minimum of 8 years of experience in rural development, public administration, community planning, or a related field.

Strong knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing rural communities.

Demonstrated success in building partnerships, managing budgets, and driving impactful results.

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.