There is created the office of commissioner of industry, trade, and tourism, who shall be executive officer and administrative head of the department. The commissioner shall be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Board of Industry, Trade, and Tourism. His compensation shall be fixed by the board. The commissioner shall assist the board in the performance of its duties, powers, authority, and jurisdiction as the board shall provide. The commissioner shall receive expenses, including mileage, as do other state officials and employees. The board is authorized to designate an assistant commissioner and such other employees as are necessary to carry out and effectuate this chapter. The commissioner is further authorized and empowered to reimburse authorized personnel of the department for the actual cost incurred in the pursuit of official business for all meals, taxis, parking, and the rental of automobiles when the use of such vehicles is less expensive or more efficient than other commercial transportation.