External Affairs Manager

Overview

Irvine Ranch Water District is currently accepting applications for an External Affairs Manager in the Advocacy/Communications Department.

Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received or until filled. The deadline for the first review of applications is 8:00 AM on November 12, 2025. Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit applications early. Candidates who submit applications after the first review deadline are not guaranteed to be considered for this recruitment.

This recruitment may close at any time without notice after the first review deadline.

Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) is a progressive, values-driven agency serving central Orange County. IRWD provides high-quality drinking water, reliable sewage collection and treatment, recycled water programs, and related services. IRWD is governed by a publicly elected five-member Board of Directors and supervised by the General Manager. For more information, visit

IRWD Values – IRWD values drive the character, culture, and capacity of the organization and guide conduct toward positive outcomes.

Under general direction, this position is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing the District's community relations program. IRWD’s community relations program is a component of the District's public policy engagement and communications strategy.

This position is responsible for building and sustaining relationships between IRWD and community leaders, groups, and stakeholders to raise awareness of IRWD as a community partner, resource, and leader in water and wastewater infrastructure policy and service by:

• Strategically creating a more visible and active IRWD community presence within the District and Orange County;
• Engaging and building strong relationships with community groups, regional associations, and local community leaders;
• Initiating outreach to key segments of the Orange County community and IRWD service area;
• Coordinating with other IRWD departments on strategic communications to reach segments less familiar with the District; and
• Directing the District's speakers bureau program, IRWD Connect, and IRWD Community Facilities Program.

Supervision Receives administrative direction from the Director of Strategic Communications and Advocacy/Deputy General Counsel. Exercises supervision over professional, technical and/or administrative staff.

• Develops and maintains a strong community relations and engagement strategy.
• Builds relationships with community members and organizations across IRWD’s service area; acts as a principal ambassador for IRWD within the community.
• Manages IRWD’s presence in local and regional associations and serves as IRWD staff representative to various groups.
• Coordinates local government outreach and advocacy, acting as a liaison with the County of Orange, cities, and special districts; builds relationships on policy issues and projects of mutual interest.
• Coordinates IRWD Board meetings with local officials and maintains relations with County, city, and special district staff; monitors governance proceedings as needed.
• Produces presentations and outreach communications for the community relations program; delivers presentations and tours to industry groups and stakeholders.
• Coordinates larger strategic communications efforts on behalf of the District, including capital projects and policies.
• Assists with other activities of the Strategic Communications and Advocacy Department; manages IRWD Connect, Speakers Bureau, and Community Facilities Program; oversees exhibit and booth presence at events and manages association memberships and sponsor ships.
• Supervises staff, assists with annual budget preparation, and prepares specifications as needed.

• Establishes and maintains relationships with other departments, water industry groups, and public agencies to promote IRWD priorities.
• Communicates with District management and the Board of Directors about community events and engagement opportunities.
• Attends and participates in Board meetings and related committees; supports…