Director of Government and Community Relations

Company DescriptionOur purpose is to make a difference in the world by reducing carbon emissions and improving access to clean energy with every module we make.

At Silfab Solar, the energy of our people is the power behind our success. Our employees actively shape the solar innovations of tomorrow, while adhering to the highest ethical operating standards and promoting a respectful and safe workplace for our diverse workforce.

Silfab Solar is the North American leader in the design, development, and manufacture of high-efficiency, premium quality solar cells and solar modules. Silfab leverages more than 40 years of solar experience and best-in-class technologies operating state-of-the-art facilities in Burlington, Washington, Fort Mill, South Carolina, and corporate headquarters in Toronto, Canada. Each operating facility features multiple automated production lines, certified to the 

ISO 9001

2015 Quality Management System standard, and just-in-time manufacturing to deliver Buy American approved PV modules specifically designed for and dedicated to the North American market.

We are committed to investing in our employees, providing a dynamic and supportive environment for learning and professional growth. We offer competitive pay, generous benefits, and opportunities for advancement, but more importantly, we offer you the ability to make a real difference in the world.

Job DescriptionSummary of Position:

 The Director of State Government Affairs, Community Engagement, and Issue Management is responsible for advancing the organization's public policy objectives at the state level, building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders, and proactively managing issues that may impact the organization's reputation or operations. This role serves as a strategic liaison between the organization, government entities, community groups, and other external partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:

State Government Affairs Leadership / Federal Government Affairs SupportDevelop and execute state-level government affairs strategies aligned with organizational prioritiesMonitor, analyze, and influence legislation, regulations, and public policy developmentsBuild and maintain relationships with state legislators and regulators, county councillors and officials, as well as local school administratorsRepresent the organization in meetings, hearings, and industry forumsCoordinate advocacy efforts, including testimony, policy briefs, and coalition participationCommunity EngagementDesign and implement community engagement strategies to reduce risks, strengthen local relationships and trustWork collaboratively with Marketing and Communications Manager in Fort Mill on community engagement activitiesPartner with community leaders, nonprofit organizations, and local stakeholdersParticipate in public meetings, and community issues forumsIdentify opportunities for partnerships that align with corporate social responsibility goals and operational objectivesServe as a visible and trusted representative of the organization within the communityIssue ManagementIdentify emerging issues that may affect the organization's reputation, operations, or stakeholder relationshipsDevelop and execute issue management and mitigation strategiesCollaborate cross-functionally with communications, marketing, legal, and operations teamsPrepare messaging, briefing materials, and response strategies for sensitive or high-impact issuesMonitor public sentiment, media coverage, and stakeholder feedbackQualificationsSkillsGovernment affairs & public policy strategyStakeholder engagement & relationship managementStrategic communication & messagingIssue & crisis managementCross-functional collaboration (Legal, Marketing, Operations)TraitsChange agent mindset Strategic thinkerStrong communicatorRelationship builderPolitically savvy/high business acumenProactive and adaptableEducation and/or ExperienceBachelor's degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Communications, or a related field (Master's preferred)5-10+ years of experience in government affairs, public policy, community relations, or corporate affairsStrong understanding of state legislative and regulatory processesProven ability to build relationships with government officials and community stakeholdersExperience managing complex, high-profile issuesExperience working in or with state government preferred. Background in regulated industries (i.e., energy, healthcare, telecommunications, finance) preferredEstablished network of state-level contacts preferredAdditional InformationCompensation and BenefitsCompetitive Market WagesPaid Time Off (vacation, sick, and holiday) 401(k) Retirement PlanMedical/Dental/Vision Insurance PlansHealth Savings Account optionSupplemental/Voluntary Insurance PlansEmployee Assistance ProgramTuition Reimbursement Program Home office and flexible working schedule