External Affairs Manager

American Electric Power • San Benito, TX

383d • $110,656 - $143,854

About The Position

The External Affairs Manager at American Electric Power is responsible for overseeing and implementing local and county governmental affairs, media communications, community relations, and economic development operations. This role serves as the primary community field contact for AEP, advocating corporate positions and influencing public policy while building and maintaining key relationships within the community.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business, Engineering, Public Policy, Communications, or a related field.
• Master's degree is desirable.
• Minimum of seven years of related experience in Customer Services, Community Relations, Economic & Business Development, Government Relations, or Utility Operations.
• Utility industry experience is preferred.
• Valid Driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Demonstrated communications and presentation skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in utility industry operations.
• Political acumen and ability to build strategic relationships.

Responsibilities

• Provide strong leadership in developing company strategies and policies for effective community relations and economic development programs.
• Act as the local legislative contact and liaison, advocating corporate positions and influencing public policy.
• Build and manage key environmental, economic development, and community relationships.
• Coordinate solutions to emerging community and business development issues such as franchises, service quality, and regulatory matters.
• Support regional/local economic development activities including community preparedness and business retention.
• Serve as the primary community and public emergency management contact during outage situations.
• Facilitate grassroots support for legislative and regulatory initiatives important to AEP's business and public policy needs.
• Maintain relationships with local executive management, distribution and transmission managers, and regulatory representatives.
• Manage local contributions and memberships.
• Educate state legislators and government officials on the corporation's goals and needs.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $110,656.00 - $143,853.50 per year.
• Equal Employment Opportunity policies.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Utilities
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree