Director External Affairs- Phoenix, AZ

About Forged Fiber

At Forged Fiber, our mission is bold but simple: deliver fast, reliable, future-proof connectivity that builds the foundation for everything online. As we execute, we believe the right way to do something is the only way. This foundation guides how the company builds, operates, and maintains a state-of-the-art open-access fiber network platform that empowers millions.

Forged Fiber is about more than building a network. It is about people. Every role matters. Every contribution counts. Together, employees create impact through teamwork, trust, and a shared commitment to excellence.

The External Affairs Director is responsible for developing and executing strategies to enhance the organization’s relationships with key external stakeholders, including government agencies, community leaders, and industry partners. This role is instrumental in shaping public perception, advancing organizational objectives, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. The External Affairs Director serves as a spokesperson and advocate for the organization, representing its interests at public events, in policy discussions, and through various communication channels.

Location: Work from Home residing in Phoenix, AZ

• Develop and implement comprehensive external affairs strategies that align with the organization’s mission, vision, and goals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with government officials, regulatory bodies, community organizations, and business partners.
• Monitor and analyze legislative and regulatory developments that may impact the organization, providing timely updates and recommendations to leadership.
• Represent the organization at conferences, public forums, and meetings with stakeholders, serving as a primary point of contact for external communications.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and alignment on public policy and community engagement initiatives.
• Lead advocacy efforts, preparing position statements, testimony, and briefing materials for policy makers and community leaders.
• Oversee the planning and execution of outreach programs, events, and partnerships that advance the organization’s external objectives.
• Manage external affairs budgets, contracts, and reporting requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Forged Fiber’s culture is built on honesty, respect, trust, transparency, and a growth mindset. We strive to treat people as they want to be treated, and to operate with consistency, integrity, customer obsession, and courage. We’re looking for top tier talent to join Forged Fiber that can help us bring this mindset to our everyday work and deliver meaningful results.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with proven ability to serve as an effective spokesperson.
• Strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of legislative, regulatory, and policy environments relevant to the organization.
• Demonstrated ability to build consensus and manage complex stakeholder relationships.
• Experience with media relations, crisis management, and community outreach.
• Proven leadership, project management, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and adapt to a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Requires up to 30% travel based on business needs

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Political Science, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• At least 7 years of experience in external affairs, government relations, public policy, or communications.

This information reflects the anticipated base salary range for this position based on current national data. Minimums and maximums may vary based on location. Individual pay is based on skills, experience and other relevant factors.

$155,000-$215,000

Forged Fiber offers a comprehensive package featuring a broad range of Health, Life, Voluntary Lifestyle benefits and other perks that enhance your physical, mental, emotional and financial wellbeing.

If you are selected…