Director - Corporate Communications

Iberdrola•Albany, NY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Reporting to the Senior Director of Network Communications, the Director of Corporate Communications – New York leads the strategic communications function for Avangrid’s New York utilities—New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) and Rochester Gas & Electric (RG&E). This role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the New York communications program, ensuring alignment with business objectives, regulatory priorities, and Avangrid’s enterprise brand and values. The Director manages and develops a team of three communications professionals and serves as a senior communications advisor to New York and Avangrid utility leadership. The position works closely with key internal stakeholders, including Government Relations, Community Affairs, Regulatory Affairs, Legal, and Operations, to deliver integrated communications strategies that support stakeholder engagement, policy and regulatory matters, and operational initiatives. Key responsibilities include setting communications strategy; developing and approving messaging; overseeing media relations, issue and crisis communications, and executive communications; and ensuring consistent message discipline across all channels. As part of the broader network communications organization, this role collaborates with communications leaders across Avangrid’s utilities to advance the company’s reputation, strengthen stakeholder trust, and support business success across New York State.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field and a minimum of ten (10) years of relevant experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Thorough understanding communications strategy and be able to handle external communications and media relations.
Superior writing and editing skills for all forms of communication needs and detailed information for senior executives.
Strong relationship builder with solid managerial experience.
Superior verbal and written communication skills, writing, editing and project management skills.
Strong strategic and analytical capability.
Keen ability to manage change and crisis communications issues.
Strong ability to work with and influence senior leaders and other key stakeholders throughout the company on communications opportunities and issues.
Ability to multi-task and quickly prioritize projects and work under pressure and tight deadlines.
Self-starter, independent worker, strong team and cross functional collaborator.
Attention to detail and an ability to plan and execute events and meetings on strict timelines and budgets.
Create, maintain and foster relationships with key media, both traditional and digital, business and trade.
Demonstrated ability to function as spokesperson as needed, both taped and live media interviews in positive and negative situations.
Ability to make reasonably quick, well-informed strategic decisions.
Excellent leadership and collaboration skills in effectively managing staff.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of the electric and gas industry a plus.
Master’s Degree in a related field of study.

Responsibilities

In collaboration with the Senior Director of Network Communications, New York utility leadership, and key internal stakeholders, develop and lead comprehensive communications strategies for issues management, customers, employees, and crisis situations across NYSEG and RG&E, aligned with Avangrid’s business objectives and enterprise priorities.
Provide strategic communications counsel to operating company leadership, with accountability for all aspects of the New York communications program, including proactive planning, rapid response, and long‑term reputation management.
Lead, manage, and develop a team of three communications professionals, setting priorities, providing coaching and feedback, and ensuring high‑quality execution across all communications disciplines.
Shape and advance compelling narratives that strengthen trust and protect the company’s reputation, in close partnership with Government Relations, Community Affairs, Regulatory Affairs, Legal, Customer Service, Operations, and Brand.
Oversee operating company communications programs, including media relations, public relations, crisis and issues communications, executive communications, social media, video and photo content, storytelling, and internal and external events, ensuring message discipline and brand consistency.
Serve as an authorized spokesperson for RG&E, NYSEG, and Avangrid as needed, including handling sensitive and high‑profile media inquiries.
Lead community communications and engagement in support of operating company initiatives, operational activities, and capital investment projects, working closely with Community Affairs, Projects, Operations, and local stakeholders.
Manage relationships with external agencies, vendors, and key community and business partners as required to ensure timely, effective, and high‑quality communications support.
Coordinate closely with Avangrid communications teams to ensure alignment with enterprise messaging, positioning, and reputation strategy.
Serve as Public Information Officer (PIO) during emergencies and major events, including storms, leading communications response efforts and coordinating with internal and external partners.