Vice President, Regional External Affairs; South East

Who we are:

As a global leader in digital infrastructure, QTS designs, builds and operates advanced data centers that support strategic AI, cloud and digital transformation initiatives. We are driven by a mission to connect the world for good and our people make it possible. Every single day, the creativity, dedication and genuine care for our communities are what push us forward and make this a truly special place to be.

Who You Are :

As the you Vice President, Regional External Affairs you are responsible for developing and executing QTS's external affairs strategy across an assigned multi-state region. You oversee government relations, public policy, legislative advocacy, economic development, permitting and zoning, community engagement, stakeholder relations, and public affairs activities that support QTS's growth, development, operations, and long-term reputation. Reporting directly to the Chief External Affairs Officer, the Vice President serves as a key member of the External Affairs leadership team and leads a regional organization of approximately 10-12 team members.

You will partner closely with leaders across Communications, Marketing, Legal, Development, Energy Strategy, Operations, and the Executive Team to advance business priorities, support market expansion, and drive strategic advocacy initiatives. You will build and maintain trusted relationships with elected officials, policymakers, economic development partners, community leaders, industry stakeholders, and internal business partners. Success in the role requires a campaign-oriented mindset, combining strategic planning, disciplined execution, stakeholder engagement, and coalition-building to advance QTS's business objectives and strengthen its position as a trusted community and industry partner.

What You Will Do:

(Job Responsibilities)
Develop and execute a comprehensive regional external affairs strategy aligned with QTS's growth, development, operational, and public policy objectives.

Lead and coordinate integrated advocacy campaigns at the state and local levels to advance business priorities and support market expansion efforts.

Direct and develop a high-performing regional team, establishing clear priorities, accountability, performance expectations, and professional development opportunities.

Partner closely with cross-functional leaders to align external affairs strategies with corporate objectives and operational priorities.

Manage regional operating plans, budgets, consultants, and external resources to support legislative, regulatory, business development, community engagement, and growth priorities.

Build and maintain influential relationships with elected officials, regulatory agencies, economic development organizations, business leaders, and community stakeholders.

Anticipate emerging political, policy, regulatory, and community issues and develop proactive strategies to mitigate risk and create opportunity.

Serve as a member of the External Affairs leadership team, contributing to enterprise-wide strategy, organizational development, and long-term planning.

Represent QTS externally as a senior leader and trusted advocate in support of the company's mission, values, and growth objectives.

Areas of Responsibility:

Government Affairs & Public Policy Lead government affairs, legislative advocacy, regulatory engagement, and public policy efforts across the region. Develop strategies that advance QTS growth objectives and strengthen relationships with policymakers, regulatory agencies, economic development organizations, and industry stakeholders.

Community Engagement & Reputation Lead stakeholder engagement strategies that build trust, support development objectives, and enhance QTS's reputation. Serve as QTS's senior regional representative with community leaders, business organizations, educational institutions, and other key stakeholders.

Economic Development & Market Expansion Partner with Development, Site Selection, Energy Strategy, and Operations teams to support market expansion, site development, infrastructure investments, and growth initiatives. Identify opportunities and mitigate risks that could impact business objectives.

Executive Counsel & Strategic Leadership Provide strategic advice to senior leadership on political, regulatory, economic, and community dynamics affecting the business. Support high-profile development, policy, permitting, and reputational matters through proactive planning and stakeholder strategy.

Organizational…