Business Education and Registration Manager (Program Manager II, Grade N25)

Montgomery County (MD); Rockville (MD); On-site; USD 83,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Montgomery County seeks a Program Manager II for the Business Education and Registration (BEAR) Unit. This leadership role demands a strategic thinker who will oversee business registrations and compliance initiatives, foster teamwork, and innovate service delivery to enhance consumer protection in the county.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in regulatory compliance or program oversight is required.
• Experience in supervising teams is essential.
• Regulatory background with strong analytical skills preferred.

Responsibilities

• Supervise the BEAR Unit managing business registrations.
• Draft and update consumer protection laws.
• Drive process improvement initiatives.

Skills

Regulatory Knowledge

Team Leadership

Compliance and Risk Awareness

Analytical Thinking

Adaptability and Innovation

Public Education and Outreach

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

No-code/low-code platforms

Job description

The expected salary range for this role on hire is $83,556 to $134,086.

WHO WE ARE

The Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) advocates for a fair and honest marketplace in Montgomery County. Since 1971, we’ve helped residents by investigating and resolving consumer complaints, licensing and registering businesses, and promoting consumer awareness through education and outreach. Our work is grounded in Chapter 11 of the County Code, which prohibits unfair and deceptive business practices. Recognized nationally for our commitment to consumer rights, we strive to protect and empower every resident in Montgomery County.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

The Department is seeking motivated and strategic individuals to lead our Business Education and Registration (BEAR) Unit. This is an exciting opportunity for a team-oriented professional who seeks a leadership role and is passionate about consumer protection. In this position, you will supervise a dynamic team of three full-time staff to oversee business registration, compliance monitoring, and education initiatives that support a fair and transparent marketplace.

Ideal candidates will bring a balance of strategic thinking, regulatory experience, and innovation. We’re looking for someone who can lead with purpose, collaborate across functions, and advance the mission of the BEAR Unit. Key strengths include:

• Demonstrated expertise in successfully carrying out complex compliance initiatives/auditsto support regulatory goals and operational integrity.

• Demonstrated ability to leverage no-code and low-code platformsto enhance operations, improve efficiency, and support innovation in service delivery.

• Proven ability to research, interpret, and/or draft legislation,regulations, and policy documents that support informed decision-making and regulatory compliance.

• Strong communication and stakeholder engagementskills to effectively promote business education, build partnerships, and support voluntary compliance efforts.

As the Program Manager II overseeing the Business Education and Registration (BEAR) Unit, you will play a vital role in advancing consumer protection through business registration, licensing, and compliance initiatives. You’ll work collaboratively across teams to ensure a fair and transparent marketplace. Key responsibilities include:

• Supervising the BEAR Unit, which manages the registration and licensing of a wide range of businesses, including motor vehicle repair facilities, towing companies, secondhand personal property sellers, commercial parking lot operators, new home builders and sellers (including homeowner-contractor waivers), and providers of radio, television, and electrical appliance installation and repair services.

• Drafting, reviewing, and updating laws, regulations, and policies related to consumer protection and business licensing to ensure they remain relevant and effective.

• Driving continuous process improvement by streamlining workflows, automating routine tasks, and identifying opportunities for increased efficiency.

• Developing and refining no-code/low-code solutions to improve internal operations and reduce administrative burden.

• Monitoring performance and analyzing data, using Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and other metrics to evaluate program effectiveness and support data-informed decision-making.

• Managing compliance and mitigating risk by identifying potential issues within registration workflows and implementing proactive strategies to protect consumers.

• Partnering with senior leadership to shape and implement strategic plans that elevate the quality and impact of business education and registration services.

Education: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree.

Experience:Thorough five (5) years of professional experience in regulatory compliance, auditing, and/or program oversight.

Equivalency: An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted.

All Applicants will be reviewed by the Office of Human Resources (OHR) for minimum qualifications. Those applicants who meet minimum qualifications will be rated “Qualified,” placed on the Referred List, and may be considered for an interview.

Preference for interviews will be given to applicants with experience in the following:

• Regulatory Knowledge– Understanding of laws, regulations, and policies related to business licensing, consumer protection, or similar areas of public sector compliance.

• Team Leadership – Experience supervising staff, guiding performance, and aligning team efforts with broader organizational goals.

• Compliance and Risk Awareness – Familiarity with regulatory compliance practices and the ability to identify and address potential risks within program operations.

• Analytical Thinking – Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to assess complex issues and develop practical, strategic solutions.

• Adaptability and Innovation – A flexible and proactive approach to change, with a history of improving processes or introducing new tools or methods to enhance efficiency.

• Public Education and Outreach – Experience creating or delivering educational programs, training sessions, or outreach efforts aimed at informing external stakeholders or the public.