Communications Manager

The Regulatory Assistance Project (RAP) is a non-profit organization, formed in 1992 by experienced utility regulators, that provides research, analysis, and educational assistance to public officials on electric utility regulation.  

Position Overview: 

RAP seeks an experienced communications leader to develop and coordinate communications activities for this quickly growing organization. The Communications Manager will design RAP's communications plan, including internal and external communications strategies, and manage communications for RAP's complex network of global offices.

The Manager will be an expert writer/editor and a savvy communicator of environmental and energy issues. This Manager, along with the RAP Directors, will serve as a spokesperson for the organization. The ideal candidate will be a seasoned communications professional with the ability to effectively communicate complex technical information to policymakers, sector decision makers, and the media. This Manager will report to the COO and/or one of the RAP Directors.  

Responsibilities:

Responsibilities will include the following and others to be assigned:

• Lead the strategic design of a multi-faceted communications program that assures the currency and wide accessibility of the best information on policy and practice in the electric power sector, in the US and abroad. This will include both internal and external communications strategies.
• Implement and revise, as needed over time, the communications program for the organization.
• Write and edit compelling, impactful documents for a range of audiences (funders, policymakers, business leaders, and others).
• Serve as project manager and team leader/supervisor for RAP's written work products.
• Serve as the communications hub of the organization, connecting global RAP leaders, gathering information from regional partners, and developing strategies for information management and dissemination. This will include the management and oversight of network communications.
• Oversee RAP's information technology systems and advise the Research Division on the organization and maintenance of RAP's databases and libraries, to maximize their value for both internal and external purposes.
• Oversee the design, formatting, and branding for all RAP materials.
• Lead the design and production of content of the RAP website - which will incorporate multi-media and network tools.
• Manage relationships with a variety of international stakeholders, media representatives, contractors, and vendors.
• Provide communications support and advice to RAP staff and partners.
• Manage other communications activities, including event planning, publicity, and graphic design.
• Supervise Communications personnel.
• Manage budget for Communications department.

Qualifications:

The successful applicant will have the following minimum qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree with coursework in journalism, English, or other writing-intensive subject. Master's degree a plus.
• 10+ years experience in a communications role, with 3+ years in a communications leadership role.
• Experience developing and successfully implementing complex internal and external communications plans.
• Experience writing about technical or environmental issues in various formats (reports, press releases) and for different media (print, web).
• Experience crafting technically complex communications products for a variety of audiences.
• Working knowledge of current issues facing the energy sector.
• Experience pitching, networking with, and responding to reporters/bloggers/media.
• Superb editing skills and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated creative presentation, layout and document design skills
• Experience serving as a project manager and supervisor.
• Creative, resourceful, and professional.
• Excellent research and analytical skills.
• Experience working with a diverse network/coalition/organization.
• Ability to work under pressure, prioritize, and be flexible.
• Competence in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access).
• Commitment to the mission of RAP.

Other Skills and Attributes:

These additional qualifications are highly desirable:

• Experience at an environmental organization and/or working in the power/energy sector.
• Experience managing communications for a multi-office, multinational organization.
• Competence in SharePoint and skill in database management.
• Knowledge of climate science.
• Past experience in a start-up environment.
• Background in issue/political campaigns, network communications and stakeholder relations.
• Multi-media design experience.
• Proficiency in a foreign language (Spanish, French, German, or Chinese in particular).

Compensation: RAP offers an excellent benefits package and a competitive salary that is commensurate with experience. 

The expected start date for this position is October 2009.  The position will be located in Montpelier, Vermont.

To Apply:

Interested candidates should follow this link to submit a resume, cover letter, and salary requirements.  No phone calls, please.      

RAP is an equal opportunity employer.