Department of Commerce (DOC)

Job Title: Director

Department/Agency: Department of Commerce (DOC)

Closing Date: December 13, 2024

Type of Position: Political Appointee

Posting Type: Employment Opportunity/Open to the Public

Pay Grade and Salary Range: GS-18/$65,000 - $85,000 p.a.

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Email Your Resume, Cover Letter and References to: OfficeGovElectASG@gmail.com

1. Your Resume - Attach your updated resume in either a txt, Word document, or PDF format. Confirm the subject line includes the position you are applying for: Department of Commerce (DOC)

2. Submit a Cover Letter and Headshot - Include a personalized cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the role. Be sure to include a recent headshot photo.

3. Provide Professional References - Send a list of at least three professional references. Include their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. You are welcome to include letters of reference if available.

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General Description

The Director of the Department of Commerce for the American Samoa Government is a senior leadership position responsible for directing and overseeing the operations of the department. This position plays a pivotal role in shaping and driving the economic growth and development of American Samoa. The Director is accountable for ensuring that the DOC effectively manages its responsibilities across a wide range of sectors, including business development, resource management, infrastructure development, economic policy, and community welfare.

The Director will provide strategic guidance, operational oversight, and policy direction to all DOC divisions. The individual will collaborate with other government agencies, private sector partners, and community leaders to support economic sustainability and innovation, enhance the quality of life for the citizens of American Samoa, and ensure that the department’s initiatives align with broader territorial and national objectives. The Director will report directly to the Governor or the Governor’s designee and represent the department in high-level meetings with government officials, stakeholders, and the public.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership and Vision: Provide executive leadership in developing and implementing the department's strategic plans and long-term objectives to foster economic development, job creation, business growth, and sustainable resource management.

2. Policy Formulation and Implementation: Lead the development and execution of policies that support economic development, business growth, and environmental sustainability. Ensure policies are aligned with both local needs and the global economic environment.

3. Departmental Management: Oversee the daily operations of the department, ensuring that all programs and services are efficiently executed. This includes setting priorities, delegating responsibilities, and providing direction to staff.

4. Resource Allocation and Budget Oversight: Manage the department’s financial resources, including the preparation and oversight of budgets, ensuring fiscal accountability, compliance with governmental regulations, and alignment with departmental objectives.

5. Program Development and Management: Oversee a diverse portfolio of programs that address various aspects of economic development, infrastructure enhancement, resource management, and public services. Ensure that programs are designed to meet the needs of the community and contribute to long-term economic sustainability.

6. Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy: Cultivate and maintain relationships with government officials, business leaders, community organizations, and the general public. Act as the primary advocate for the department's interests and ensure the alignment of the department's goals with other governmental and external initiatives.

7. Economic and Social Impact Analysis: Lead efforts to assess and measure the impact of departmental programs and policies on the local economy and community. Use data and analysis to inform decision-making, improve operations, and ensure that programs are delivering intended results.

8. Compliance and Regulatory Oversight: Ensure the department adheres to all relevant laws, regulations, and standards, including those related to business operations, labor practices, environmental protection, and financial management.

9. Team Leadership and Development: Foster a culture of professionalism, collaboration, and excellence within the department. Oversee the recruitment, training, and development of staff to ensure high performance and align the team with the department’s goals and objectives.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Leadership and Strategic Thinking: Proven ability to lead a large, complex organization with diverse functions. Demonstrated capacity to think strategically, develop innovative solutions, and guide the department in achieving its mission.

• Economic Development Expertise: Strong knowledge of economic development principles, including business support, trade, investment, workforce development, and infrastructure growth. Ability to leverage both local and global trends to support economic sustainability.

• Policy and Program Management: Expertise in formulating and implementing effective policies, managing complex programs, and ensuring their success through measurable outcomes and accountability.

• Financial Management: Proficiency in budget preparation, financial oversight, and resource allocation, ensuring the department operates within its financial parameters while meeting its objectives.

• Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and advocate for the department’s mission to a wide range of stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector entities, and the general public.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess complex data, interpret economic indicators, and translate findings into actionable policies and initiatives.

• Collaborative Approach: Ability to work effectively with internal and external stakeholders, build consensus, and lead teams in achieving common goals.

Academic and Experience Requirements

Education/Experience:

• Master’s Degree in Business Administration, Economics, Public Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university, plus ten years of relevant experience, including five years in a senior leadership capacity.OR

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Economics, Public Administration, or a related field, plus ten years of relevant experience, including seven years in a senior leadership capacity.

Additional Skills and Qualifications:

• Experience working in government agencies or with international development organizations is highly desirable.

• Knowledge of the economic landscape of American Samoa and the Pacific Islands region is an asset.

ant certifications in emergency management, homeland security, or related fields are highly desirable.

Salary

The salary is competitive and based on experience and qualifications. Specific compensation details will be provided upon request.

Additional Information

For questions regarding the position or application process, please contact the Office of the Governor-Elect directly via email at officegovelectASG@gmail.com

*The American Samoa Government is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will be considered for political appointments without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal and territorial laws. Appointments will be made based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to serve effectively in alignment with the policies and goals of the administration.