Dir, Business Development & GA

American Water Works • Davenport, IA

117d

About The Position

The primary role directs the state and local government affairs program and the development of new business opportunities for one of American Water's state subsidiaries. This includes the development and implementation of recommended strategies and tactics for advancing the company's priorities, protecting its business interests, and enhancing its reputation. The role involves oversight and management of resources responsible for contacting municipal and privately-owned water and wastewater operations to discuss acquisition, negotiate sales for resale contracts, and other related business opportunities. The position provides counsel to the state president and leadership team on matters affecting policy, politics, and key relationships. It is the senior government relations professional responsible for overseeing, coordinating, and/or directly establishing, nurturing, and maintaining relationships with elected and appointed individuals at the state and local levels of government. The role also directs the strategy and implementation of external affairs initiatives to support community engagement and customer education.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in public administration, government, journalism, communications, public relations or related field preferred.
• Total work experience of around 15 years with around 7 years in government relations, business development, external affairs or lobbying, preferably within the utility sector.
• Strong leadership ability and strategic planning skills.
• Detail oriented to conduct thorough analysis and evaluations.
• Project and Program Management skills, Quantitative skills (analytical, technical, problem solving).
• Effective people management skills.
• Strong written and verbal communications and keen listening ability.
• Interpersonal skills including persuasion, negotiation, and collaboration.
• Excellent working knowledge of the legislative process at all levels of government.
• Demonstrated ability to testify before and effectively lobby legislative audiences.
• Ability to manage budget resources efficiently.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the lead state lobbyist, responsible for advancing, amending, and/or stopping legislation that impacts the company and water/wastewater industry.
• Provide guidance related to messaging and strategic communication regarding legislative issues.
• Hire and manage contract lobbyists to support the company's legislative efforts.
• Manage the government affairs priorities with the contract lobby team to build and leverage political relationships.
• Advocate the company's position, testify on the company's behalf, track legislation, and provide political guidance to the company.
• Directly oversee local government affairs efforts, including members of the Government Affairs team.
• Manage the company's strategic communications efforts in supporting the Manager of External Affairs.
• Support federal government affairs efforts by working with the state president and vice president of Communication and Federal Government Affairs.
• Engage with a variety of external stakeholders to build strategic relationships and coalitions.
• Actively participate in suitable business, industry, civic, and community organizations.
• Attend various business and industry conferences to develop expertise and build relationships.
• Manage all fundraising efforts for the company's state Political Action Committee.
• Develop annual budget and contribution recommendations for the PAC board.
• Coordinate with EVP, Communications & External Affairs to align company communications.
• Work with legal and finance departments to ensure compliance with election laws.
• Direct preparation of informational material, studies, and conclusions regarding potential business development opportunities.
• Lead team members individually responsible for Business Development and Government/External Affairs.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and health benefits package.
• Opportunities to develop, grow, and evolve your career.
• Focus on health & wellness, emotional & well-being, and savings for current & future goals.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Utilities
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree