Job Summary
The External Affairs Manager is a key member of the management team and works closely with the General Manager and parent companies to develop and implement the Company's government relations strategy to protect the Client’s unique status and assets. Additional responsibilities include regular pro-active engagement with local, state and federal government agencies, officials and decision-makers, communicating key Company positions to the government and stakeholders, collaborating and partnering with stakeholders, and creating and executing strategies to support the Company's interests in addition to managing the External Affairs and Community Relations teams work as part of the Community Relations team for stakeholder engagement, partnership, and economic development opportunities for various regions.
Responsibilities
- Plan, develop, and implement external communication strategies and campaigns to promote the organization's vision, mission, and values.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with key media outlets, journalists, influencers, and stakeholders.
- Represent the organization as the primary spokesperson and media contact, and prepare and deliver public statements, press releases, interviews, and briefings on relevant issues and events.
- Monitor and analyze media coverage and public opinion and provide timely and accurate feedback and advice to senior management and staff.
- Coordinate and support the organization's participation in external events, such as conferences, seminars, workshops, and webinars.
- Develop and oversee the production and distribution of external publications, such as newsletters, brochures, reports, and social media content.
- Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, policies, and ethical standards in all external communication activities.
- Manage and supervise the external affairs team, and provide guidance, training, and performance evaluation.
- Collaborate with internal departments and teams, such as marketing, fundraising, advocacy, and program, to align and integrate external communication objectives and messages.
- Identify and pursue new opportunities and partnerships to enhance the organization's reputation and visibility in the external environment.
- Comply with legal obligations and the Client’s safety policies and procedures.
- Cooperate with supervisor, coordinators, and managers on management of safety issues, including compliance with any instructors.
- Intervene as necessary, to ensure the safety of others in the workplace.
- Execute strategies effectively in a fast-paced environment, handling multiple projects and priorities simultaneously to achieve concrete outcomes.
- Collaborates effectively with all levels of management and staff, affiliated-company employees, and external business partners while maintaining a professional demeanor.
- Provide safety leadership by always setting a good example.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in relevant field of study
- 8+ years of professional progressive experience in government relations or public affairs role
- Valid driver's license
- Possesses a deep understanding of legislative, regulatory, and advocacy processes
- Demonstrates exceptional skills in analysis, critical thinking, problem-solving, negotiation, writing, presentations, and verbal communication
- Performs well under pressure, handles multiple tasks simultaneously, demonstrates strong time management and organizational skills, establishes priorities, and meets deadlines consistently.
- Shows strong leadership qualities, manages teams effectively, engages with internal/external partners and consultants, and networks proficiently
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, including thorough knowledge of proper grammar, advanced vocabulary, spelling, editing, and proofreading skills
- Ability to pass a background screening
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree in relevant field of study
- Experience working with for-profit businesses, resource development, or Alaska Native Corporations
