Community Affairs Leader

About the Role

Cypress Creek Energy is seeking an experienced community affairs leader to drive project development and execution across a regional portfolio in the southern United States. The Community Affairs Lead will drive strategic engagement plans, build durable relationships with communities and public officials, and serve as a senior spokesperson for projects.

Responsibilities

• Community Engagement: Lead and execute comprehensive stakeholder engagement strategies for projects across the assigned region. Build and maintain relationships with community leaders, advocacy groups, and other key stakeholders. Conduct stakeholder mapping and develop targeted outreach strategies. Develop and implement plans that build public understanding and support for projects.
• Government & Regulatory Engagement: Establish and maintain relationships with elected officials, municipalities, regulatory agencies, and government entities, in collaboration with Government Affairs. Represent the company at public hearings, community meetings, and critical discussions. Identify permitting and regulatory risks and communicate them effectively to leadership.
• Communications & Media Relations: Act as or support project spokespersons by leading media engagement, public presentations, and community forums, while coaching others to deliver clear, credible, and impactful messaging. Develop messaging, presentations, and written materials. Partner with internal teams on media relations strategy and execution.
• Strategic Planning & Storytelling: Develop engagement plans aligned with project goals. Translate complex information into accessible communications. Craft stories highlighting project value and community benefits.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with Government Affairs, Development, Project Execution, and Operations teams. Lead identification and mitigation of risks related to community acceptance, stakeholder sentiment, and social license. Provide guidance on engagement best practices.
• Leadership & Team Development: Lead and mentor team members or consultants. Manage external vendors. Contribute to a collaborative team environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree
• 5+ years of relevant experience
• Experience with municipalities, communities, elected officials, and/or regulatory agencies
• Strong stakeholder engagement and planning skills
• Public speaking and spokesperson experience
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to simplify complex information
• Experience in media relations
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Willingness to travel up to 40%
• Embrace and live by the missions and values of Cypress Creek Energy

Preferred Qualifications

• Southeastern US Regional experience
• Experience in energy, infrastructure, or related industries
• Experience managing team members or consultants

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinker with strong execution skills
• Skilled relationship builder
• Comfortable managing complex and challenging situations
• Organized and detail-oriented
• Collaborative team player
• Ability to anticipate risks and develop solutions

Additional Expectations

• Represent Cypress Creek Energy at events and public meetings
• Maintain understanding of regional stakeholder and policy dynamics
• Support national initiatives as needed

Location

This is a role based in Durham, NC, Asheville, NC, or a Remote role, with the expectation to travel as needed up to 40%.

Pay

The salary range for the position is $120,000-$150,000 plus bonus and benefits. Compensation may vary outside of this range depending on a number of factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience, and location.

Benefits

• 15 days of Paid Time Off, accrual up to 20 days, 11 observed holidays
• 401(k) Match
• Comprehensive package including medical, dental, vision, and health insurance
• Wellness stipend, family planning stipend, and generous parental leave
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Phone Bill Reimbursement
• Company Swag