Director, Business & Public Affairs

Avista•Spokane, WA

1d•$148,302 - $196,499•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director, Business and Public Affairs develops and directs Avista’s business and public affairs strategy by aligning company priorities with community, economic, and policy outcomes. Leads high-impact economic vitality initiatives and large-scale community programs, convening business, government, tribal, and civic stakeholders to align interests, resolve competing priorities, and deliver shared outcomes. Operates effectively in complex, ambiguous environments, balancing business, community, and regulatory considerations to advance strategic goals that support customer affordability and regional vitality. Serves as a visible, public-facing ambassador for Avista, building trusted relationships and representing the company across community forums, media, and digital platforms. Also leads strategies for large commercial and industrial customers, driving growth, retention, and long-term value through strong partnerships, market insight, and negotiated solutions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university in business, marketing, political science, community development, or related field required.
Minimum of 5 years of account executive, professional sales, or customer relations experience, plus specialized training or experience in commercial and industrial plant processes and equipment.
10 years’ experience in economic development policy and/or strategic development required.
Demonstrated political and organizational savvy, with the ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments and build trust across diverse and sometimes competing interests.
Applicable experience includes business recruitment skills and techniques, marketing and promotion skills, financial feasibility, pro forma analysis, current economic trends, economic forecasting, and knowledge of applicable laws, codes, and regulations concerning land use and the development process.
Demonstrated ability to supervise personnel, resolve conflict, facilitate diverse stakeholder groups, motivate community stakeholders, and manage and execute multiple projects simultaneously required.
Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills required, including the ability to represent the organization effectively in public, media, and executive-facing settings.
Advanced analytical and communication skills (both verbal and written) to comprehend, interpret, and explain rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
Ability to influence others, negotiate to a successful resolution, and engage in effective problem-solving required, particularly in complex or ambiguous environments involving multiple stakeholders.
Demonstrated experience leading large-scale community initiatives, partnerships, or incentive programs, including convening cross-sector stakeholders (public, private, nonprofit, and/or tribal entities) to achieve shared outcomes.
Experience serving in a public-facing role, with demonstrated ability to build credibility and engage stakeholders through community forums, media, and/or digital and social platforms.
Other combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.

Responsibilities

Directs business opportunities and risks, seeks mutually beneficial solutions with communities served, and contributes to the successful achievement of corporate strategies and goals. Directs the development and implementation of long-term strategies to ensure the economic health and vitality of the Avista service area and coordinates with internal stakeholders. Navigates complex, ambiguous environments by balancing fast paced, and competing priorities across business, community, and policy considerations to advance strategic outcomes.
Oversees, plans, organizes, and executes economic development, corporate policy, and large-scale community initiatives and incentive programs from inception to completion. Convenes and facilitates diverse stakeholder groups to align interests, resolve competing priorities, and drive shared outcomes that deliver measurable community and business impact.
Builds and sustains relationships with local, state, and regional elected officials as well as senior government, business, and civic leaders to monitor and influence issues, regulations, and policies pertinent to the company’s strategic and operational goals. Represents Avista on the governing boards of statewide, local, and regional organizations. Serves as a visible, public-facing ambassador for Avista across community forums, media, and digital and social platforms, strengthening reputation, transparency, and stakeholder engagement.
Develops broad-based strategic community relationships to build knowledge, visibility, and reputation as an expert in community needs and challenges related to the company’s external focus areas, including local policy, strategic initiatives, and economic and cultural vitality. Represents Avista through strategic involvement in relevant community organizations and initiatives. Partners closely with Social Impact and other internal teams to align economic development and community initiatives with broader company commitments.
Directs business opportunities and risks, seeks mutually beneficial solutions with communities served, and contributes to the successful achievement of corporate strategies and goals. Leads the development and implementation of long-term strategies to ensure the economic health and vitality of the Avista service area, coordinating closely with internal stakeholders.
Strategizes and coordinates Avista corporate engagement with assigned customers across departments to ensure service continuity, access to pricing and service options, and delivery of innovative energy efficiency solutions.
Develops deep knowledge of energy-reliant processes within key customer segments, including gathering competitive market intelligence, identifying decision makers and influencers, monitoring economic and political impacts, and analyzing and recommending cost-effective solutions leveraging Avista services.
Manages personnel including hiring, performance management, coaching, employee engagement, continuous education, training, and development including responsibility for department budget
Establishes and maintains close working relationships with other functional directors to maintain alignment with the strategic direction of the overall company.
Creates and implements systems and processes that monitor work to ensure that continuous quality service is delivered to all internal and external customers.
Fosters a positive and supportive work environment; promotes equity, inclusion, diversity, and belonging in the workplace; and contributes to an environment of mutual respect.