Director, Business & Public Affairs

About the role

The Director, Business and Public Affairs develops and directs Avista’s business and public affairs strategy by aligning company priorities with community, economic, and policy outcomes. They lead high-impact economic vitality initiatives and large-scale community programs, convening business, government, tribal, and civic stakeholders to align interests, resolve competing priorities, and deliver shared outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Develops and directs Avista’s business and public affairs strategy
• Leads high-impact economic vitality initiatives and large-scale community programs
• Convenes business, government, tribal, and civic stakeholders to align interests, resolve competing priorities, and deliver shared outcomes
• Operates effectively in complex, ambiguous environments, balancing business, community, and regulatory considerations to advance strategic goals that support customer affordability and regional vitality
• Serves as a visible, public-facing ambassador for Avista, building trusted relationships and representing the company across community forums, media, and digital platforms
• Leads strategies for large commercial and industrial customers, driving growth, retention, and long-term value through strong partnerships, market insight, and negotiated solutions
• Directs business opportunities and risks, seeks mutually beneficial solutions with communities served, and contributes to the successful achievement of corporate strategies and goals
• Navigates complex, ambiguous environments by balancing fast-paced, and competing priorities across business, community, and policy considerations to advance strategic outcomes
• Oversees, plans, organizes, and executes economic development, corporate policy, and large-scale community initiatives and incentive programs from inception to completion
• Convenes and facilitates diverse stakeholder groups to align interests, resolve competing priorities, and drive shared outcomes that deliver measurable community and business impact
• Serves as a visible, public-facing ambassador for Avista across community forums, media, and digital and social platforms, strengthening reputation, transparency, and stakeholder engagement
• Builds and sustains relationships with local, state, and regional elected officials as well as senior government, business, and civic leaders to monitor and influence issues, regulations, and policies pertinent to the company’s strategic and operational goals
• Represents Avista on the governing boards of statewide, local, and regional organizations
• Manages personnel including hiring, performance management, coaching, employee engagement, continuous education, training, and development including responsibility for department budget
• Establishes and maintains close working relationships with other functional directors to maintain alignment with the strategic direction of the overall company
• Creates and implements systems and processes that monitor work to ensure that continuous quality service is delivered to all internal and external customers
• Fosters a positive and supportive work environment; promotes equity, inclusion, diversity, and belonging in the workplace; and contributes to an environment of mutual respect

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university in business, marketing, political science, community development, or related field required
• Minimum of 5 years of account executive, professional sales, or customer relations experience, plus specialized training or experience in commercial and industrial plant processes and equipment
• 10 years’ experience in economic development policy and/or strategic development required
• Demonstrated political and organizational savvy, with the ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments and build trust across diverse and sometimes competing interests
• Applicable experience includes business recruitment skills and techniques, marketing and promotion skills, financial feasibility, pro forma analysis, current economic trends, economic forecasting, and knowledge of applicable laws, codes, and regulations concerning land use and the development process
• Demonstrated ability to supervise personnel, resolve conflict, facilitate diverse stakeholder groups, motivate community stakeholders, and manage and execute multiple projects simultaneously required
• Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills required, including the ability to represent the organization effectively in public, media, and executive-facing settings
• Advanced analytical and communication skills (both verbal and written) to comprehend, interpret, and explain rules, regulations, policies, and procedures
• Ability to influence others, negotiate to a successful resolution, and engage in effective problem-solving required, particularly in complex or ambiguous environments involving multiple stakeholders
• Demonstrated experience leading large-scale community initiatives, partnerships, or incentive programs, including convening cross-sector stakeholders (public, private, nonprofit, and/or tribal entities) to achieve shared outcomes
• Experience serving in a public-facing role, with demonstrated ability to build credibility and engage stakeholders through community forums, media, and/or digital and social platforms

Benefits

At Avista, our employees are the foundation of our success. Their dedication drives the value we deliver to our customers and communities. That’s why we prioritize the physical, mental, and financial well-being of our team members and their families. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards program designed to support every stage of life and career. Our offerings include:

• Affordable healthcare options including medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retailer retirement benefits with an enhanced 401(k) match
• Incentive programs rewarding performance and contributions
• Competitive paid time off including holidays, personal days, and vacation
• Life and disability insurance for added peace of mind
• Wellness resources supporting mental and physical health
• Tuition assistance for educational advancement
• Community giving programs encouraging employee engagement and impact

Pay

$148,302 to $196,499

Schedule

Hybrid work options are available for this role. The successful candidate will be required to work at Scott Morris Center [in Spokane, WA on Sprague Ave.] at least 3 days per week including Mondays and Tuesdays with additional day(s) determined by the manager. This position requires an in-person presence to support team and on-site responsibilities.