State Govt Affairs Manager

American Electric Power•Columbus, OH

4d•$116,255 - $151,133

About The Position

The State Government Affairs Manager represents the Corporation and its issues before the state legislature, state government, industry, trade, and public advocacy groups. Working closely with the External Affairs Director, External Affairs Vice-President, Regulatory Department, and Company President, the manager helps develop, organize, and implement corporate policy and strategy at the state level. The role includes educating state legislators and government officials about the goals, objectives, and needs of American Electric Power Corporation and its Operating Companies.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in public policy, public relations, communications, or a related discipline.
Minimum 6 years of experience in community/public affairs, communications, or directly related industry experience, which may include work with a state legislature, state government, or comparable state work.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Demonstrated communications skills and excellent written and verbal communications skills.
Ability to travel to various locations for extended periods and work late into the evenings.
Demonstrated ability to build strategic relationships with appropriate contacts to support AEP’s policies.
Must demonstrate the highest standards of ethical behavior and support the Company’s Corporate Compliance Policies.
Ability to see information on a computer screen, use a computer keyboard, and hear spoken words via telephone, cell phone, or during individual or group meetings.

Responsibilities

Help develop, organize, and implement corporate policy and strategy for effective state representation by educating state legislators, their staff, and state government about the Corporation’s goals, objectives, and needs.
Develop and maintain a broad base of legislative, government, and industry contacts at every level.
Gather and help interpret legislative and government information that may affect corporate business.
Confer with legislators and officials regarding the merits or weaknesses of legislation to influence its passage, defeat, or amendment, or to encourage more favorable legislation.
Respond to the state legislature and maintain relationships with associations, organizations, and public advocacy groups.
Educate and influence the state legislature, government, and other affected parties on corporate issues and legislative initiatives.
Support corporate grassroots initiatives and Political Action Committee (PAC) activities.