Public Affairs Specialist (hybrid)

Job Title: Public Affairs Specialist

Ideally, we are looking for candidate to work hybrid schedule 2 days a week in our Chester, Virginia office, but we have some flexibility with potentially hiring someone to work remote from Virginia based office.

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Job Summary

The Public Affairs Specialist is responsible for executing public affairs engagement strategies, plans and tactics that enhance the knowledge and understanding of the state operating company among the company’s key stakeholders. Works collaboratively with State Operating Company key business partners and NiSource corporate communications to develop and execute integrated public affairs engagement strategies. Serve as NiSource’s key community and media contact.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Responsible for local public affairs in assigned areas.

Resolve customer and public issues in tandem with Operations, Construction and other business partners.

Serve as company spokesperson for assigned area.

Work independently while keeping in close contact with the Manager, Public Affairs and collaborating with other department members to maintain mutually supporting relationships.

Support and execute stakeholder meetings and forums with local customers, community leaders, local government leaders, chambers of commerce, school districts, marketing and economic development groups and other local organizations to support State Operating Company. Will require working some evenings, with occasional overnight travel.

Proactively work with local media to educate external audiences to the benefits of State Operating Company programs, garnering their acceptance and support.

Identify and resolve local issues so they do not negatively impact the State Operating Company.

Develop communications plans and content, including news releases, talking points and videos.

Manage social networking pages, including writing posts, monitoring and responding to customer requests.

Create and maintain valued relationships with public entities, industry associates, company affiliates and contractors.

Provide support 24/7 during crisis situations.

Required Qualifications for Position

1 years of communications experience.

Experience working with media.

Experience contributing social media content for an organization.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office software.

Ability to work with a subject matter expert to craft effective and clear content and messages, which create an emotional connection with intended audiences.

Ability to speak with confidence and sensitivity, even on contentious topics.

Ability to interpret data and information to understand stakeholder preferences and motivations.

Ability to think critically and uncover root causes and obstacles.

Ability to learn energy industry issues, regulations, trends, and NiSource’s role, vision and values.

Ability to listen with empathy and seek to understand the intent of and assumptions behind others actions.

Ability to anticipate likely stakeholder reactions to messages, as well as discern when a gap between communication and behavior is causing or preventing a desired outcome.

Ability to develop schedules and budgets required for public affairs deliverables, as well as the ability to juggle work among several channels, team members and business partners.

Preferred Additional Qualifications for Position

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Business Administration, Political Science or related field preferred

3 years of communications experience.

Utility experience.

Disclaimer

The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of the position.

Work Authorization

Authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship.

Inclusion & Diversity

Value inclusion within your day to day responsibilities by respecting others perspectives/convictions, engaging others opinions, creating a safe environment where people, ideas, and opinions are valued within your Team/Customers and external partners.

Respect and take into consideration diversity within your Team/Customers and external work partners by valuing different world views, challenges, and cultures that represent all walks of life and all backgrounds.

Treat others with respect and consideration. Actively participate in creating and contributing to a positive work environment.

Equal Employment Opportunity

NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), genetic information, citizenship status, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle.

By applying, you may be considered for other job opportunities.

Safety Statement

Promote a safe work environment by actively participating in all aspects of our employee safety program. Report any unsafe conditions and take actions to prevent personal injuries. Support our interdependent safety culture by ensuring the safety of your co-workers. Stay focused on the task at hand and promote productivity through good work habits.

Salary Range:

$65,900.00 – $99,000.00

Posting Start Date:

2024-10-16

Posting End Date (if applicable):

2024-10-30

Please note that the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

At NiSource, youll be part of the team serving nearly four million customers throughout the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, who count on us to energize their homes and businesses. Whether speaking with customers by phone, analyzing financial data or installing new gas lines in a neighborhood, you’ll meet exciting challenges each day and make the most of your skills and talents. And you’ll be part of a company that was named by Forbes magazine as one of America’s Best Large Employers.

Were looking for talent from all backgrounds. We invite candidates of all abilities to come as they are and do what they love. Through our years of successful growth, we’ve stayed true to our roots by making a difference in the lives of millions of our customers. If you’re interested in joining an inclusive, innovative company that fosters opportunity for growth, NiSource might be the place for you.