Director of Corporate Communications & Government Affairs, Hays

Job Summary (Overall Purpose Of The Position)

The purpose of the Director of Corporate Communications & Government Affairs is twofold:
1) to plan, manage and execute corporate communications and advertising activities that support Midwest Energy’s business and strategic plans; and
2) to manage governmental and regulatory relations activities. Managing governmental and regulatory relations includes partnering with external agencies and groups on initiatives and action items, directing and overseeing contract lobbyists, and making recommendations to the rest of the leadership team to align with the business objectives of Midwest Energy.

• Direct government relations activities including overseeing and managing contract lobbyist activities.
• Manage inquiries from elected officials and/or key interest groups.
• Shape legislative strategies through alignment with the organization’s business plan and strategy.
• Establish and maintain a strong political and state governmental network.
• Cultivate community relationships in Ellis County by developing and maintaining connections with local officials, chambers of commerce, civic organizations, business leaders, and other key community stakeholders.
• Identify and advise Executive Staff of key trends, regulatory interests and/or concerns that may impact Midwest Energy and the utility industry.
• Develop public policy/legislative positions and prepare and deliver appropriate testimony aligned with Midwest Energy’s business plan and strategic direction.
• Leads company’s interaction with local elected officials, policymakers, business and trade associations, and other key stakeholders.

• Establish, execute, and monitor strategic and long-term communications plans consistent with corporate business and strategic plans.
• Prepare and monitor corporate communications, advertising, lobbyist and donations budget.
• Serves as primary news media contact per the Company’s Emergency Response Plan. Designates an alternate in his/her absence, or as needed for complex technical issues. Monitor cost, reach, and effectiveness of available communications channels, and adjust ad placements and corporate messages for maximum impact.
• Coordinate company position on public relations matters with other co-ops, statewide organizations, contractors and affected parties, as needed.
• Oversees annual meeting preparation and election ballot prep and mailing, online balloting activities, facilities preparation and performs emcee duties.
• Oversees development of Director candidate biographies, printing and mailing of ballots, and manages contract firm for tabulation and reporting of Director elections.
• Manages contracted advertising agencies, website, graphics support, and other communications assistance as needed.
• Responsible for the Company’s digital reputation, including internet and social media presence and interactions.
• Responsible for all internal and external company written communication to include: newsletter articles, brochures, publications, customer notifications, Annual Reports, press releases, etc. Communications involve photos, design, and digital content.
• Liaison with various chambers of commerce, other electric utilities, municipal utility providers, and other business and community groups.

• Interviews, selects and terminates reporting personnel in accordance with approved organization plan and corporate policies subject to the approval of the Vice President Human Resources.
• Periodically reviews performance of employees and recommends changes in salary and/or status in accordance with approved wage and salary plan.
• Periodically reviews position descriptions for all reporting personnel and recommends…