ETHICS COMMISSION DIRECTOR

Position Number: 22095671

County: Pulaski

Posting End Date: 10/14/2026

Anticipated Starting Salary: $114,390

Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, law, or a related field, plus six (6) years of experience in election administration, public administration, law, or a related field is required. A Juris Doctor with extensive experience practicing administrative law preferred.

Position Information

Job Series: Boards and Commissions Director

Classification: Ethics Commission Director - Competitive

Class Code: PBC05C

Pay Grade: SPC08

Salary Range: $114,390 - $169,298

Job Summary

The Ethics Commission Director is responsible for leading and managing the operations of the Ethics Commission, ensuring the ethical conduct of public officials, candidates, and public servants in the state of Arkansas. This senior-level position oversees the Commission's programs, including investigations into ethical violations, the development of policies, and providing guidance to state entities on ethical standards. The Ethics Commission Director is also the public face of the Commission, tasked with promoting transparency and accountability in government operations.

Primary Responsibilities

Lead and manage all aspects of the Arkansas Ethics Commission, providing direction and supervision to staff. Establish and execute strategic goals for the Commission, ensuring that operations are efficient, transparent, and aligned with the Commission's mission. Mentor and support Commission staff, encouraging professional development and ensuring adherence to ethical standards in the performance of their duties. Analyze financial needs of the Commission and promotes approval of the Commission's budget by the legislature, manage the appropriated budget of the Commission, and ensure that all expenditures from budgeted money are made within the law and general purposes of the Commission. Oversee the investigation of complaints related to ethical violations by public officials, candidates, and government employees. Ensure that complaints are investigated thoroughly and impartially, and that corrective action is taken when violations are identified. Provide legal interpretations and guidance on Arkansas' ethics laws, advising public officials, government agencies, and the general public. Make recommendations for sanctions or penalties for ethical violations, and coordinate with legal authorities as necessary for enforcement. Develop and implement policies, procedures, and guidelines that promote transparency, integrity, and ethical behavior within state government. Advise state legislators and government officials on potential reforms to ethics laws and regulations, helping to shape public policy in line with best practices in government ethics.

Knowledge and Skills

A broad understanding of the administration, structure, and process of government and politics. Excellent public relations skills. Knowledge of governmental ethics, campaign finance, and lobbying policies and issues. Effective decision-making abilities, particularly in high-pressure situations or when dealing with complex ethical dilemmas. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain complex legal and ethical concepts to a variety of stakeholders. Strong interpersonal skills to effectively engage with public officials, legal professionals, and the public in a constructive and professional manner. Ability to analyze complex ethical issues, legal precedents, and public policies, and apply ethical standards consistently and fairly. Critical thinking skills to evaluate allegations of ethical violations, weigh evidence, and make sound recommendations. Skilled in resolving disputes, whether between government officials, employees, or the public, ensuring that all parties are treated fairly and in accordance with the law. Ability to negotiate sensitive issues or penalties related to ethical violations in a way that promotes transparency and accountability.

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, law, or a related field, plus 6 (six) years of experience in election administration, public administration, law, or a related field is required.

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.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.