WILSON, ARK. -- A town of about 1,000 people 45 minutes from Memphis, Tenn., is looking for a chief executive officer.
It’s a unique position because Wilson is actually a limited liability corporation--an incorporated town managed by a private company. Historically a company town, the Lawrence Group now owns and manages the town’s infrastructure, housing and most of its farmland and businesses. According to the recruitment brochure, the corporation owns about 95 percent of Wilson’s $25 million in estimated assets.
The CEO needs to be one-part town manager where the right candidate will assist the town with planning, finance, asset and infrastructure management, grant acquisitions and general monitoring of community needs. The other part is business-savvy, able to grow local enterprises, like the Lawrence Group’s restaurant, grocery store and pharmacy, attract investment and retain high-quality talent.
The role involves:
- Developing an asset inventory and 5-year capital improvements program
- Assisting in new design and construction standards
- Leading the town in new zoning rules
- Developing a 20-year strategic plan
- Expanding subdivisions and new housing
- Spearheading a separation strategy between the town and The Lawrence Group
Residency in Memphis is recommended, and the job pays $150,000 - $250,000 per year, plus bonuses and benefits.
