Director of Corporate Communications & Government Affairs

Midwest Energy•Hays, KS

About The Position

The purpose of the Director of Corporate Communications & Government Affairs is twofold: 1) to plan, manage and execute corporate communications and advertising activities that support Midwest Energy’s business and strategic plans; and 2) to manage governmental and regulatory relations activities. Managing governmental and regulatory relations includes partnering with external agencies and groups on initiatives and action items, directing and overseeing contract lobbyists, and making recommendations to the rest of the leadership team to align with the business objectives of Midwest Energy.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, English, Journalism, Communications or other related field required.
7-10 years of experience in a public relations or government/legislative relations position required.
Three to five years of progressively responsible experience leading projects, programs, and/or teams required.
Experience or exposure in lobbying or managing lobbyists, building relations with governmental agencies, and reputation management required.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messages to diverse audiences and represent Midwest Energy with professionalism and credibility.
Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and work independently.
Relationship building with legislators, government agencies, community leaders, industry partners, customers, employees, and other stakeholders to advance organizational objectives.
Political and organizational acumen, including the judgment to navigate complex stakeholder environments, understand formal and informal influence, and remain authentic and diplomatic.
Situational awareness and interpersonal effectiveness, including the ability to read the room, adapt communication and engagement strategies, and build consensus on sensitive or complex issues.
Learning agility, with the ability to quickly understand unfamiliar business, regulatory, legislative, and technical issues and translate complex information into practical language and recommendations.
Strategic thinking and sound judgment, with the ability to anticipate implications, evaluate risks and opportunities, and align decisions with long-term organizational objectives.
Leadership that develops people, builds accountability, and fosters collaboration across teams and functional areas.
Project and initiative leadership, including the ability to manage complex, high-visibility organizational imperatives, including planning, execution, and successful delivery.
Customer and stakeholder relations, including the ability to work constructively with customers and respond effectively to sensitive or complex situations.
Proficiency in establishing and achieving company goals through the implementation of work plans and project/initiative management.
Demonstrated computer skills and intermediate-level proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite, Canva, Abode Creative Suite, AI Tools, and other communication and productivity technologies.
Proficiency with social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram to support communication, engagement, and reputation management.
Must hold and maintain a valid Kansas Driver’s License.

Nice To Haves

General knowledge of utility operations preferred.

Responsibilities

Direct government relations activities including overseeing and managing contract lobbyist activities.
Manage inquiries from elected officials and/or key interest groups.
Shape legislative strategies through alignment with the organization’s business plan and strategy.
Establish and maintain a strong political and state governmental network.
Cultivate community relationships in Ellis County by developing and maintaining connections with local officials, chambers of commerce, civic organizations, business leaders, and other key community stakeholders.
Identify and advise Executive Staff of key trends, regulatory interests and/or concerns that may impact Midwest Energy and the utility industry.
Develop public policy/legislative positions and prepare and deliver appropriate testimony aligned with Midwest Energy’s business plan and strategic direction.
Leads company’s interaction with local elected officials, policymakers, business and trade associations, and other key stakeholders.
Establish, execute, and monitor strategic and long-term communications plans consistent with corporate business and strategic plans.
Prepare and monitor corporate communications, advertising, lobbyist and donations budget.
Serves as primary news media contact per the Company’s Emergency Response Plan. Designates an alternate in his/her absence, or as needed for complex technical issues.
Monitor cost, reach, and effectiveness of available communications channels, and adjust ad placements and corporate messages for maximum impact.
Coordinate company position on public relations matters with other co-ops, statewide organizations, contractors and affected parties, as needed.
Oversees annual meeting preparation and election ballot prep and mailing, online balloting activities, facilities preparation and performs emcee duties.
Oversees development of Director candidate biographies, printing and mailing of ballots, and manages contract firm for tabulation and reporting of Director elections.
Manages contracted advertising agencies, website, graphics support, and other communications assistance as needed.
Responsible for the Company’s digital reputation, including internet and social media presence and interactions.
Responsible for all internal and external company written communication to include: newsletter articles, brochures, publications, customer notifications, Annual Reports, press releases, etc. Communications involve photos, design, and digital content.
Liaison with various chambers of commerce, other electric utilities, municipal utility providers, and other business and community groups.
Interviews, selects and terminates reporting personnel in accordance with approved organization plan and corporate policies subject to the approval of the Vice President Human Resources.
Periodically reviews performance of employees and recommends changes in salary and/or status in accordance with approved wage and salary plan.
Periodically reviews position descriptions for all reporting personnel and recommends necessary change.
Counsels and advises subordinates.
Assists with training sessions pertaining to safety, proper work procedures and meetings as needed.
Approve time sheets, vacation schedules and sick leave for all reporting personnel.