Program Manager, Small Business Opportunity Program (SBOP)

The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) is the state's leading economic development organization with a streamlined mission to grow and strengthen Arizona's economy.

The ACA uses a three-pronged approach to advance the overall economy: recruit, grow, create – recruit out-of-state companies to expand their operations in Arizona; work with existing companies to grow their business in Arizona and beyond; and partner with entrepreneurs and companies large and small to create new jobs and businesses in targeted industries.

The SBOP Program Manager supports the administration, operations, and ongoing development of Small Business Opportunity Programs, with a strong focus on federal and state grant compliance and reporting. This role is ideal for candidates with transferable skills in organization, data tracking, customer service, or project coordination who are interested in public programs, economic development, or grant-funded initiatives. The position works closely with internal teams, service providers, and government stakeholders to ensure accurate reporting, effective program delivery, and strong participant engagement.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Coordinate SBOP program activities including workshops, cohorts, symposiums, and outreach events.

Collect, track, and validate program data required for federal and state reporting (e.g., U.S. Department of Treasury, SSBCI).

Assist with grant compliance by maintaining accurate records, documentation, and audit-ready files.

Track program budgets using Treasury and internal reporting tools; support basic financial monitoring and reconciliation.

Maintain and update program databases, electronic records, and Salesforce (or similar CRM) systems.

Serve as a point of contact for small businesses and service providers, responding to inquiries and providing program guidance.

Collaborate with communications staff to support reporting of program outcomes and impact.

Support stakeholder engagement, including coordination with community partners and government agencies.

Assist in preparing reports, presentations, and dashboards for internal and external audiences.

Maintain familiarity with applicable federal, state, and local program requirements and compliance standards.

Participate in events, meetings, and trainings; occasional in-state travel required (

Base compensation for this position is between 55K--65K, depending on experience.

COMPETENCY, EDUCATIONAL & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum one (1) year of experience in administrative support, program coordination, customer service, or a directly related area (internships and academic projects count).
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail, especially in data entry, analysis, and documentation.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a structured environment.
• Proven experience supporting events, workshops, or stakeholder engagement activities.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills; ability to work with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) and comfort learning new systems.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team setting.
  
  

HIGHLY PREFERRED SKILLS, ABILITIES & QUALIFICATIONS:

• Exposure to or interest in grant-funded programs, government reporting, compliance, or public administration.
• Experience with Salesforce or other CRM/database systems.
• Familiarity with small business support programs, economic development, or community-based initiatives.
• Bilingual (Spanish preferred).
• Detail-oriented with strong data accuracy and documentation habits.
• Organized and process-driven, with the ability to follow compliance guidelines.
• Strong interpersonal skills and customer service mindset.
• Problem-solving ability and sound judgment in day-to-day tasks.
• Adaptability in a fast-paced, evolving program environment.