You Won't Believe Why Governor Sanders Chose Ro Arrington as Arkansas' New Finance Chief!

The Arkansas Department of Commerce announced today that Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has appointed Robert “Ro” Arrington as the new President of the Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA), a pivotal agency dedicated to fostering economic and community development throughout the state.

As President, Arrington will spearhead ADFA’s efforts to bolster economic growth by providing affordable financing for a range of initiatives, including business expansion, housing development, infrastructure improvements, public health projects, and funding for higher education.

Governor Sanders praised Arrington’s long-standing service and leadership within the organization. “

Ro Arrington has provided outstanding service to the people of Arkansas throughout his time at ADFA and I have no doubt that he will continue to deliver for our state,”

said Governor Sanders. “Economic development is one of my administration’s top priorities, and ADFA plays a key role in helping businesses grow. I know that Ro is the right leader to expand the Authority’s impact and spur even greater growth in our state.”

Arrington has been with ADFA for over a decade, serving in various leadership roles, including Vice President of Homeownership and Public Finance. He has held the position of interim president since August 2025, during which he has guided the agency through a transitional period following the resignation of former president Mark Conine, who left to pursue opportunities in the private sector.

Hugh McDonald, the Arkansas Secretary of Commerce, also commended the appointment: “

Ro Arrington has been instrumental in ADFA’s success for more than a decade, and his appointment as President will lead to continued growth for the agency.”

In his new role, Arrington expressed his commitment to strengthening ADFA’s mission. “

We’ll keep pushing forward to support projects that make a real difference across Arkansas,”

he stated, highlighting a focus on community-enhancing initiatives statewide.

Additionally, Carey Smith, Chair of the ADFA Board, emphasized that Arrington’s extensive experience in public finance and investment banking made him the natural choice to lead the Authority. “

We are excited for him to lead the Authority into what we believe will be a bright future serving citizens of the great State of Arkansas,”

Smith remarked.

Arrington’s appointment comes at a crucial time as Arkansas continues to pursue various economic development strategies. With ongoing efforts to attract businesses and improve infrastructure, the leadership of ADFA is critical in ensuring that the necessary financial support is available to fuel these initiatives. The agency’s role is not just about financing; it’s about creating opportunities for growth and development that can significantly impact the lives of Arkansas residents.

As the state navigates its economic landscape, Arrington’s leadership is expected to steer ADFA toward innovations that will enhance its outreach and effectiveness. His background and experience suggest a promising trajectory for the agency and, by extension, for the future of Arkansas’s economic health.