Director, Communications and Member Experience

Director, Communications & Member Experience

Are you a strategic communicator who thrives on building relationships, inspiring teams, and creating meaningful experience for our members and communities. Great Lakes Energy is seeking an experienced and innovative Director, Communications & Member Experience to lead the development and execution of communication strategies, member engagement initiatives, and community outreach efforts that strengthen our brand, enhance member satisfaction, and support organizational growth.

For over 85 years, Great Lakes Energy has powered rural communities across 26 counties in western and northern Michigan. As the third-largest Michigan-based electric utility and the state's largest member-owned power company, we serve over 128,000 meters with pride. Beyond delivering reliable electricity, we are leaders in advanced fiber technology through True stream, our communication solutions subsidiary.

At Great Lakes Energy, we prioritize enriching the lives of our community members and employees. With over 300 team members, we’re more than just colleagues—we’re a close-knit family, united by a shared vision of growth, innovation, and community service.

As the Director, Communications & Member Experience, you’ll serve as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, helping shape organizational strategies and priorities while leading initiatives that connect members, employees, communities, and stakeholders to Great Lakes Energy’s mission and values.

Your day may begin reviewing communication plans, member engagement metrics, or department performance goals. You’ll collaborate with leaders across the organization to ensure consistent messaging, support strategic initiatives, and identify opportunities to enhance the member experience.

Throughout the day, you may oversee internal and external communications, guide public relations efforts, advise leadership on communication strategies, and manage content across digital, social media, website, video, and print channels. You’ll also work closely with team members responsible for energy programs, member outreach, and community engagement initiatives.

You may find yourself meeting with community leaders, business partners, elected officials, schools, and industry organizations to strengthen relationships and represent the Cooperative at public events and industry functions. In addition, you’ll analyze member feedback and engagement data to identify opportunities for continuous improvement and innovation.

No two days are exactly alike, but every day offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on our members, employees, and communities.

You’re a collaborative and strategic leader who understands the power of effective communication and exceptional member experiences. You excel at connecting organizational objectives with meaningful engagement strategies and can successfully balance long‑term planning with day‑to‑day execution.

You are comfortable leading teams, managing complex projects, and building relationships with diverse stakeholders. Whether developing communication strategies, responding to emerging issues, leading community initiatives, or mentoring employees, you bring professionalism, creativity, and sound judgment to every situation.

You value continuous improvement and are always looking for new ways to strengthen communication effectiveness, member satisfaction, and organizational performance.

Experience and

Education:

A bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Business, or a related field, with at least 10 years of relevant professional experience. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered. Previous leadership experience, including at least two years of supervising and developing employees, is required.

Professional Knowledge: Experience developing and executing strategic communications, public relations, and member engagement initiatives. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including business writing, editing, proofreading, and public speaking. Proficiency with…