Director, Community Engagement - Renewable Energy

The Director of Community Engagement plays a critical leadership role in establishing positive relationships with local communities and stakeholders for our client's onshore renewable energy projects. Collaborating with internal development and operations teams, this position focuses on obtaining a social license to operate by implementing effective community engagement plans, educating stakeholders, organizing public events, fostering relationships with renewable energy supporters, and representing our client in project-hosting communities. Reporting to the Executive Leadership Team, the Director of Community Engagement ensures the successful integration of community outreach and public education into our client's renewable energy initiatives.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive research and stakeholder mapping exercises to develop and implement strategic community engagement plans for onshore development projects.
• Collaborate with onshore wind, solar, storage, and hydrogen project development teams to integrate community engagement and public education into the project development process.
• Provide guidance and support to development and operations teams in maintaining a comprehensive contact database or “CRM” system for local stakeholders at each onshore renewable energy project.
• Lead and oversee community engagement and outreach efforts for our client's portfolio of operating and development projects.
• Strategically plan and oversee in-person community events, including wind farm tours, open houses, landowner dinners, presentations to schools and community groups, and local fairs or festivals.
• Travel as required, up to 40% of the time, including overnight stays in remote areas.
• Provide expert input and guidance on the development of project websites, newsletters, fact sheets, and other communication materials.
• Engage with project stakeholders, monitor community concerns, and report on organized opposition related to development projects.
• Collaborate with project development teams to establish local offices and recruit community liaison contractors.
• Manage budget and resources related to community relations, including purchasing, invoices, and external consultants involved in social media, digital marketing, media relations, project branding, and community engagement campaigns.
• Design and implement social investment plans that align with our client's corporate ESG goals while addressing the specific needs of local communities.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a leadership role focused on community organizing, outreach, strategic communications, or political campaigns.
• Proven ability to empathize, build relationships, and effectively communicate with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong knowledge of county government structure and function, including expertise in renewable energy permitting and regulatory issues.
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proficient in event coordination, including wind farm tours, open houses, landowner dinners, and other community events.
• Comfortable with public speaking and delivering presentations.
• Experience in renewable energy, political organizing, environmental management, agriculture, or real estate development is a plus.

Note: If you are interested in the position, please submit your resume. Our client is an equal opportunity employer that values a broad diversity of talent, knowledge, and experience.