Lead Communications Manager Federal Communications

Duke Energy - Washington, DC

Full-time - Mid Level

Washington, DC

Utilities

About the position

The Lead Communications Manager - Federal Communications is a pivotal role within Duke Energy, responsible for collaborating with key leaders in the Federal Affairs organization to advocate for regulatory and legislative outcomes that align with the company's commitment to providing reliable and affordable energy. This position is designed for an individual who can devise innovative communication strategies to address complex federal advocacy priorities and enhance the company's reputation in the Washington, DC market. In this role, the Lead Communications Manager will develop advocacy communication plans tailored for a federal stakeholder audience, serve as a media spokesperson for federal priorities, and identify opportunities for positive media stories that reinforce Duke Energy's federal advocacy positions. The position demands a deep understanding of federal communications, the ability to navigate multi-stakeholder advocacy issues, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively with senior leaders, including the Chief Corporate Affairs Officer. The successful candidate will manage multiple high-profile, high-priority federal communications projects simultaneously, adapting quickly to changes in priorities and schedules. This role requires strong experience in federal communications and media relations, including background media strategy and message development, as well as the ability to develop and implement communication plans that effectively manage enterprise-wide responses to federal public policy, legislative, and regulatory developments.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with the Director of Corporate Communications to execute communication strategies for key federal advocacy priorities, including establishing reporter outreach programs, stakeholder mapping, and establishing expected results and metrics for success.
• Develop, implement, and measure the impact of federal communications plans on federal advocacy priorities, including writing key messages, drafting media collateral, social media content, and other communications materials.
• Build and maintain strong relationships and serve as a trusted advisor to senior executives on the Federal Affairs team.
• Stay up to date on industry-related federal advocacy trends and media coverage.
• Identify opportunities for positive media stories to support federal advocacy priorities.
• Prioritize and traffic multiple projects and deadlines.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field.
• Minimum of eight (8) years of related work experience.
• In lieu of a bachelor's degree, a high school diploma/GED and a minimum of twelve (12) years of related work experience.

Nice-to-haves

• Two (2) to four (4) years of media relations experience, including on background reporter education experience.
• Experience in creating strategic communications plans designed to help leaders and clients achieve their business objectives.
• 5-8 years of experience in agency or in-house corporate communications environments.
• Experience in identifying potential and emerging issues and developing strategic counsel to business unit leaders.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and accurately using written and verbal communications.
• Experience developing and implementing complex communications plans.
• Demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills to work efficiently and effectively with clients, teammates, and management.
• Strong media relations experience and networking of reporter relationships.
• Experience working with business leaders and providing executive counsel and coaching for media interviews, presentations/speeches.
• Highly flexible and adaptable.
• Experience in the electric utility industry or other highly regulated, high-profile industry.
• Ability to rapidly respond to immediate communications needs and issues.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office products, such as Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.

Benefits

• Relocation Assistance Provided (as applicable)