Manager, Public Affairs

Interfor•Peachtree City, GA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

As a Manager, Public Affairs at Interfor, you will support the development and execution of Interfor’s government relations, strategic communications, stakeholder engagement and sustainability reporting activities across North America. Reporting directly to the Vice President, Communications & Government Relations, the role will initially focus on U.S. government and public affairs while developing the knowledge and relationships required to support Canadian political, regulatory and industry priorities. The position prepares executive-level communications and briefings, manages complex communications initiatives and helps strengthen the department’s long-term leadership capacity.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Business, Sustainability or a related field.
At least five years of progressive experience in government relations, public affairs, strategic communications, public policy or a related discipline.
Experience preparing executive-level briefings, presentations and complex written materials.
Experience working with government stakeholders, legislative offices, industry associations or within a regulated industry.
Experience managing cross-functional projects involving sensitive issues and multiple contributors.
Exceptional writing, editing and presentation-development skills, with the ability to make complex information clear and audience appropriate.
Strong political judgment and an understanding of government, legislative, regulatory and public policy processes.
Excellent research and analytical skills, with the ability to identify business implications, risks and opportunities.
Strong project management skills and the ability to coordinate cross-functional contributors and review processes.
Ability to build trusted relationships with executives, colleagues, government officials, industry partners and community stakeholders.
Sound judgment, discretion, initiative and professionalism in a fast-paced environment.
An ability and willingness to develop expertise in Canadian politics and public policy is required.

Nice To Haves

Experience in forestry, natural resources, manufacturing, building products, sustainability reporting or a North American organization is an asset.
Knowledge of Canadian politics and public policy is an asset.

Responsibilities

Support the development and execution of government relations and public affairs strategies in the United States and Canada.
Monitor political, legislative and regulatory developments, assess their potential business implications and prepare concise briefings and recommendations.
Support engagement with government officials, agencies, industry associations and community leaders, including meeting preparation, follow-up and relationship management.
Prepare executive briefing notes, presentations, speaking points, correspondence and other materials for internal and external audiences.
Develop communications plans and messaging for complex or sensitive business matters, including corporate announcements, operational developments and community initiatives.
Coordinate cross-functional input, reviews and approvals to deliver clear, accurate and timely communications.
Help build and maintain relationships with government, industry, community, education and workforce stakeholders.
Coordinate stakeholder meetings, government engagements, mill visits and community events.
Work with regional and operational leaders to identify local issues, reputational considerations and engagement opportunities.
Support the planning and production of Interfor’s sustainability report, including content development and cross-functional coordination.
Work with subject-matter experts to gather and validate information for reporting and communications.
Prepare clear and accurate sustainability narratives, case studies, key messages and presentations.
Conduct political, policy, stakeholder and industry research and translate findings into concise, decision-ready materials.
Monitor emerging issues and identify potential business, policy and communications implications.
Manage multiple priorities and provide support across the Communications & Government Relations function as business needs require.