Sol Systems is offering a unique opportunity for a Manager of External Affairs to craft, execute, and manage the support for the Company’s utility-scale solar projects in local communities and state governments in the Midwest. This role encompasses direct statehouse advocacy, communications, community relations, and education while offering the chance to develop comprehensive stakeholder engagement strategies, launch educational campaigns, cultivate media relations, organize community events, and conduct community impact assessments. The role requires fostering strategic partnerships, organizational memberships, and coalition building to support solar energy initiatives and push back on misinformation.
A successful candidate will be a proactive leader capable of supporting multiple projects from a variety of perspectives. The Manager of External Affairs position requires exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, plus the ability to work effectively under pressure. The ideal candidate will have experience developing and implementing comprehensive stakeholder engagement strategies, launching educational campaigns, and coordinating with internal teams. They should be adept at organizing community events, conducting community impact assessments, and fostering strong partnerships with local stakeholders.
A strong candidate will have experience implementing these strategies and tactics on both a local and statehouse level.This position reports directly to the VP of External Affairs and will work closely with our project development teams.Sol Systems is a solar energy project development and financial services company with a national footprint and a diverse customer, investor, and partner base. We have financed or developed over $2 billion of solar energy assets to date. As a leading renewable energy developer, financier, trader and operator, Sol empowers entrepreneurs to have a meaningful impact on the world with a focus on catalyzing the development and operation of sustainable infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement a comprehensive stakeholder engagement strategy following Sol Systems’ Community Engagement Playbook to support communities during utility-scale solar project development and construction for each project in your region.
- Monitor and engage with state political leaders and trade associations to protect Sol Systems’ portfolio, reputation, and, where possible, expand business opportunities.
- Conduct assessments to understand a solar projects' social, economic, and environmental impacts on local communities and develop strategies to mitigate any adverse effects.
- Support developers as they establish and maintain open communication with local government officials, community members, and organizations to understand and address their concerns and interests regarding the project’s operations.
- Ensure transparency by facilitating the flow of accurate and relevant information between Sol Systems, the community, and community stakeholders to address questions and misconceptions.
- Collaborate with the communications team and external contractors to develop and execute communication plans, including creating and distributing messaging and materials.
- Identify and establish partnerships with local organizations, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to promote solar energy initiatives and community benefits.
- Launch educational campaigns and programs to inform and mobilize residents to support solar energy projects.
- Organize and participate in community events, town hall meetings, and public forums to engage with community members and stakeholders.
- Lead local support campaigns by identifying and activating local solar energy supporters, building relationships with the community and local media, and maintaining a positive presence for Sol Systems.
- Coordinate with the Marketing and Communications team to manage external communications, including updating project-specific websites and managing social media strategies.
- Own and develop compelling messages and position statements for local projects.
- Foster teamwork and coordinate with Sol Systems’ development team to plan and execute local support campaigns effectively.
Successful candidates will possess the following skills and attributes:
- 5–7 years of experience in public affairs, public relations, communications, community organizing, or campaign management.
- A bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Experience designing and executing effective grassroots campaigns, whether political or issue-based.
- Demonstrable ability to design and concisely document a detailed campaign plan.
- Familiarity and experience working with common campaign tactics such as direct mail, radio/newspaper advertising, coalition building, and social media listening.
- Experience working with media to build productive relationships and produce positive press.
- Experience engaging with local elected officials, community leaders, and members of the public.
- Comfort and skill with de-escalating potential confrontations with individuals or groups opposed to solar energy or similar issue-based campaigns.
- Experience managing field organizers or local support staff.
- 50-75% travel to project sites.
Location & Hours:
The ideal candidate will be based near the St. Louis metropolitan area for easiest driving access to Sol Systems’ central portfolio of projects and will have access to a regional airport.
Commitment & Compensation:
Compensation will be commensurate with experience. In addition, Sol Systems provides health insurance, retirement benefits, partial gym reimbursement, education benefits, parental leave, paid vacation, sick and federal holidays, and the opportunity to work in a unique and dynamic environment.
To Apply:
Please submit a resume, cover letter and salary requirements.
Deadline:
We hope to hire for these positions immediately and will review applicants on a rolling basis.
Sol Systems is an equal-opportunity employer, and does not discriminate based on gender, race, ethnicity, orientation, creed, or other traits. Sol Systems supports and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply.
