External Affairs Manager

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Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.

About the Indiana Department of Transportation:
The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) provides a dynamic workplace that serves Indiana citizens, improves our state’s quality of life, and enhances its economic opportunity. INDOT has a number of innovative programs and projects, including Public-Private Partnerships, Green Initiatives, and cutting-edge uses of materials and assets. As part of the State of Indiana, INDOT offers a competitive total compensation package, as well as outstanding work/life balance.

Whether you are an established professional in the transportation field or just starting your career, INDOT has exciting and challenging opportunities for you.

Role Overview:
The External Affairs Manager serves as an assistant to core government affairs and public relations teams. The work provides an opportunity to serve as an educator and liaison between the agency and external stakeholders, including elected officials, media, community leaders, industry partners, and the public. This position integrates government affairs, public relations, event planning and strategic outreach functions to ensure consistent communication, support agency priorities, and strengthen relationships.

The External Affairs Manager assists in communicating agency policies, project impacts, legislative developments, and public information through coordinated engagement and constituent support. The Manager works collaboratively across divisions to provide timely information, prepare materials, support outreach activities, and maintain strong relationships with elected officials, media outlets, community groups, and constituents. The Manager reports directly to the Deputy Chief of Staff.

Location:
This position is with INDOT’s Central Office in Indianapolis.

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $59,800.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.

The essential functions of this role are as follows:

• Consult with agency to understand their communication needs, goals, and target audiences.
• Maintain content on the agency's social media outlets.
• Evaluate current communication strategies and materials to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
• Develop tailored communication strategies that align with client objectives and agencies best practices.
• Collaborate with clients to create compelling messaging, content, and narratives.
• Advise on media relations, and reputation management strategies.
• Provide guidance on the use of various communication channels, including digital media, social media platforms, and traditional media.
• Assist clients in preparing and delivering presentations, speeches, and press releases.
• Monitor and analyze communication outcomes and provide recommendations for optimization.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to execute communication plans effectively.
• Offer training and workshops to clients on communication best practices.
• Stay informed about industry trends, current events, and emerging communication technologies.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities…