The Center for Economic Development at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith (UAFS) announced Wednesday (November 30) that Justin Smith will be the new director of the Family Enterprise Center (FEC).
Smith, 40, came to UAFS from the Arkansas Tech Ozark Campus and has served for the past eight years as Chief Business and Community Outreach Officer.
“Justin’s work as ATU-Ozark’s Chief Business and Community Outreach Officer and his time spent with the Arkansas Economic Development Commission will be invaluable to the Family Enterprise Center.” I have had tremendous support from the UAFS search committee, faculty and staff, and I am confident he will bring the energy, passion and great vision to the Family Enterprise Center to propel us forward as a Center of Excellence. .”
Smith, who took office on November 28, said his first step would be to find out the dynamics of the various peer groups the center hosts for members and talk to members about the programming they would like to see in terms of speakers. Said. training, etc.
“I think it’s important to be a good listener first and find out from your members what is working well and what are the opportunities for growth. We will share information with our members about trends to do,” he said.
Regarding long-term goals, Smith said he hopes FEC will be known in the region as a true resource that knows that family businesses can get viable resources by getting involved. said.
“They will not only be able to talk to colleagues in similar roles, but will also have access to resources that can help solve their unique needs,” he said.
Prior to joining ATU-Ozark, Smith spent several years at the Arkansas Economic Development Commission as a sector manager. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Arkansas and a master’s degree in student management from Arkansas Tech.
His starting salary at FEC is $85,000. The Economic Development Center welcomes the Family to the Economic Development Center in the Bakery District of downtown Ft. introduces Smith to members of the Enterprise Center of