Communications Manager, Corporate Communications

New York is leading the nation in the fight on global climate change and the transition to a clean energy-powered economy. The Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (Climate Act) has created the most aggressive climate change goals in the nation and requires an ambitious agenda that blends proven catalysts with innovative approaches while operating across a broader energy arena that is rapidly evolving. New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA) is a driving force in realizing this agenda. NYSERDA works with stakeholders that span residents, business owners, developers, community leaders, local government officials, universities, utilities, investors, entrepreneurs, and more, to develop, invest, and foster conditions that:

• Attract the private sector capital investment needed to expand New York’s clean energy economy.
• Overcome barriers to using clean energy at a large-scale in New York.
• Enable New York’s communities and residents to benefit equitably from energy efficiency and renewable energy.

Job Overview

NYSERDA is seeking a Manager of Corporate Communications to help develop and implement a comprehensive, strategic and proactive corporate communications program for the Authority to build public awareness of the State’s and NYSERDA’s objectives in creating an electricity sector powered by renewable and zero-emission sources. Reporting to the Assistant Director of Corporate Communications, the Manager will help develop a clear and consistent narrative for NYSERDA to effectively communicate our clean energy and climate work, and serve to assist in integrating, developing and coordinating program activities, events and announcements for internal and external audiences. This position is part of a fast-paced, dynamic team and requires a broad range of skills including speech writing, public relations, media relations, social media, and internal communications. Must be a confident communicator, presenter and writer as well as proactive, deadline driven, solution-oriented and able to prioritize multiple projects while thriving in a fast-paced environment, fostering strong partnerships and maintaining an awareness and understanding of complex issues affecting NYSERDA and the energy industry.

Primary Responsibilities

• Work directly with the Assistant Director of Corporate Communications, Director of Communications, and the Vice President of Corporate Communications, Marketing and Events to ascertain timely and relevant newsworthy announcements and potential events that will build awareness of and support for the Authority’s mission and the advancement of the state’s energy and climate goals in this sector.
• Develop an in-depth understanding of NYSERDA’s policies and programs and develop media plans, draft press releases, talking points, opinion pieces, reporting metrics and summaries, and other materials in a timely manner to support these efforts; plan, manage, and execute media events as needed.
• Develop and provide strategic recommendations, guidance and messaging in support of NYSERDA positions and initiatives to achieve and maintain strong stakeholder engagement and increase timely awareness and support among external and internal constituencies.
• Develop and maintain close working relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, as well as media outlets, in development of timely and relevant newsworthy announcements.
• Work jointly with other departments ensuring that all items meet the highest professional standards of accuracy, clarity and style. Liaise with internal departments including marketing, web and social media to ensure consistency of message and comprehensive support of NYSERDA announcements and programs.
• Collaborate with social media colleagues to develop and execute NYSERDA, program, and announcement specific messaging across all social media platforms; assist with monitoring social media for NYSERDA relevant announcements.
• Collaborate with Executive Speechwriter on preparing for executive level speaking engagements.
• Work closely with the Vice President of Corporate Communications and Marketing, Director of Corporate Communications, and Assistant Director of Communications and organizational leadership as needed on managing sensitive issues, supporting collaborative efforts, and obtaining approvals as required.
• Monitor and benchmark trends in clean energy messaging and perceptions to help advise program staff.
• Build professional networks within NYSERDA, NY Green Bank, and other energy agencies.
• Serve as lead contact within the Authority for specific areas of expertise as assigned.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• At least 5 years’ related experience directly working in a corporate or government communications or public relations department; communications experience in the clean energy sector preferred
• Excellent work ethic, resolute integrity, detail oriented with a commitment to delivering a high-quality and accurate work product, with a track record of putting the success of the team first
• Ability to assess potential effects of NYSERDA decisions on public attitudes, effectively apprise Assistant Director of Communications, Director of Communications and Vice President of Corporate Communications and Marketing of such factors and help inform decision making for public response
• Ability to work effectively with members of the news media, executives in NYSERDA, and colleagues in other state agencies and industry stakeholders and organizations
• Excellent journalistic, presentation and interpersonal skills that resonate with a variety of audiences; ability to communicate persuasively, concisely and unambiguously in speech and in writing
• The ability to express complex technical and organizational concepts in terms understandable to the news media and public; track record of creative and proactive approaches for pitching news stories
• Strong project management skills; ability to work well under pressure and a respect for internal and external deadlines; manage multiple diverse activities simultaneously, deliver on commitments and varying deadlines, and operate/make decisions with speed, accuracy and strong judgment
• Strong computer skills (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public relations, or related field or experience directly working in a corporate or government communications or public relations department.

Please submit two files, one for your cover letter and another for a resume.

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