Principal Consultant, Strategic Communications and Stakeholder Engagement

At ERM, effective communication isn’t just messaging, it’s how projects earn trust, secure approvals, and sustain long-term success. As a Principal Consultant, Strategic Communications and Stakeholder Engagement, you’ll guide complex stakeholder engagement and communications strategies that directly influence clients’ social license to operate across diverse industries and geographies. We are looking for individuals based in the Columbus, Ohio area. What Your Impact Is:
Lead end-to-end delivery of strategic communications and stakeholder engagement programs Serve as a trusted advisor to clients, shaping strategy on high-visibility projects Drive cross-functional collaboration to deliver integrated, results-focused solutions Influence business growth through client development, marketing initiatives, and proposal leadership Champion innovative, equitable communications strategies that reflect diverse stakeholder needs What You'll Bring:
Required 6-8+ years of experience in public affairs, PR, communications, or related field (consulting or agency preferred) Proven experience managing projects, client relationships, budgets, and teams Strong facilitation and presentation skills across diverse audiences Expertise in stakeholder engagement, public consultation programs, and communications strategy Exceptional writing and editing skills (AP style proficiency preferred) Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment Willingness and ability to travel Preferred 8+ years of relevant experience Background in energy, environmental, or infrastructure sectors

Experience with social risk analysis, monitoring, and reporting Media relations and crisis communications experience Exposure to Environmental Justice initiatives Bachelor’s degree in communications, public affairs, journalism, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Key Responsibilities:

Lead strategic communications and stakeholder engagement initiatives from planning through execution Manage client relationships, project teams, budgets, and timelines Design and implement public consultation programs (in-person and virtual) Develop integrated communication materials (fact sheets, websites, newsletters, reports, etc.) Drive media relations strategy and execution Analyze stakeholder insights and trends to inform client strategies Facilitate meetings, workshops, and community engagement events Oversee social risk assessments tied to capital projects, M&A, and permitting efforts Collaborate across teams to deliver innovative, technology-enabled communication solutions Support business development through proposals, networking, and industry engagement Coordinate subcontractors and internal resources to ensure seamless project delivery For the Principal Consultant, Strategic Communications and Stakeholder Engagement position, the anticipated annual base pay is $121,500–$150,800 (USD).

Actual pay will depend on factors such as education, experience, skills, location, performance, and business needs. In some cases, pay may fall outside this range. This role may be eligible for bonus pay subject to the sole discretion of ERM and its policies and procedures (casual and fixed term/flex force employees are not bonus eligible). We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off (vacation, sick, and floating holidays), parental leave, medical, dental, vision, life, disability, AD&D insurance, 401(k), and other applicable benefits to eligible employees.

Who We Are:

As the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, we partner with the world’s leading organizations, creating innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlocking commercial opportunities that meet the needs of today…