Public Relations Strategist

Ameren•Springfield, IL

About The Position

The Public Relations Strategist is responsible for strengthening Ameren's reputation and supporting the accomplishment of the company's business objectives through effective public affairs, media relations, issues management, and policy advocacy practices. This individual is a strong writer and strategic communicator capable of communicating effectively in multiple channels to influence Ameren Illinois' key internal and external publics. The Public Relations Strategist leads external communication planning and development for projects as assigned, mines for news about company initiatives and successes, and ensures visibility across the team for consistent messaging, tone, timing and strategy.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university required with a preference in Communications, Public Relations, Public Administration, Political Science, Business.
Must have strong writing and strategic thinking skills with 5 or more years of professional communications experience in public affairs and strategic communications required.
Candidate must be a strong team player who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
Fluency with the evolving communications landscape, channels and publics.
Exceptional written and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to create engaging content for multiple audiences.
Ability to influence stakeholders and co-workers at all levels of the organization.
Knowledge of the legislative process and the political/policy environments in Illinois.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage concurrent projects.
Familiarity with Microsoft Office suite and other productivity tools.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree preferred.
Experience leading communication projects, public relations campaigns, etc.
Prior experience working in state government, the energy sector, media, or a public relations firm is preferred.

Responsibilities

Works with the Director of Public Relations and the Government Relations team to develop and execute Ameren Illinois' public affairs, legislative, and regulatory communications strategy.
Supports development of legislative testimony, fact sheets, white papers, briefing presentations, press releases, talking points, and collateral, as necessary, to support Ameren Illinois public policy initiatives and other business objectives.
Delivers a broad range of communications to support favorable review of Ameren Illinois’ regulatory matters before the Illinois Commerce Commission, including rate case filings.
Partners with other members of the communications team, including co-workers with expertise in social media, web/search, brand and internal communications, to successfully develop and execute integrated communications plans.
Builds relationships with statehouse reporters, news directors and journalists/bloggers who cover Illinois energy policy.
Partners with customer communications, marketing, social media, community relations, regulatory affairs, government relations, and other departments to manage and protect AIC's reputation among stakeholders.
Provides communications consultation and services to Ameren functional areas (i.e. operations, customer service, clean energy, etc.) to meet their goals and objectives.
Maintains a steady pipeline of earned media opportunities and story pitches to support achievement of company's reputational goals, packaging company news for broadcast, print/web, social media, and other digital outlets.
Prepares internal subject matter experts for speaking engagements and media interviews to effectively articulate Ameren's public position on various energy topics and issues.
Manages communications during crisis events such as storms and safety incidents.
Requires working outside of standard business hours.
Works safely and in compliance at all times with legal, regulatory and ethical standards.