Responsibilities

• In collaboration with the Senior Director of Network Communications, New York utility leadership, and key internal stakeholders, develop and lead comprehensive communications strategies for issues management, customers, employees, and crisis situations across NYSEG and RG&E, aligned with Avangrid’s business objectives and enterprise priorities.
• Provide strategic communications counsel to operating company leadership, with accountability for all aspects of the New York communications program, including proactive planning, rapid response, and long‑term reputation management.
• Lead, manage, and develop a team of three communications professionals, setting priorities, providing coaching and feedback, and ensuring high‑quality execution across all communications disciplines.
• Shape and advance compelling narratives that strengthen trust and protect the company’s reputation, in close partnership with Government Relations, Community Affairs, Regulatory Affairs, Legal, Customer Service, Operations, and Brand.
• Oversee operating company communications programs, including media relations, public relations, crisis and issues communications, executive communications, social media, video and photo content, storytelling, and internal and external events, ensuring message discipline and brand consistency.
• Serve as an authorized spokesperson for RG&E, NYSEG, and Avangrid as needed, including handling sensitive and high‑profile media inquiries.
• Lead community communications and engagement in support of operating company initiatives, operational activities, and capital investment projects, working closely with Community Affairs, Projects, Operations, and local stakeholders.
• Manage relationships with external agencies, vendors, and key community and business partners as required to ensure timely, effective, and high‑quality communications support.
• Coordinate closely with Avangrid communications teams to ensure alignment with enterprise messaging, positioning, and reputation strategy.
• Serve as Public Information Officer (PIO) during emergencies and major events, including storms, leading communications response efforts and coordinating with internal and external partners.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field and a minimum of ten (10) years of relevant experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Thorough understanding communications strategy and be able to handle external communications and media relations.
• Superior writing and editing skills for all forms of communication needs and detailed information for senior executives.
• Strong relationship builder with solid managerial experience.
• Knowledge of the electric and gas industry a plus.
• Superior verbal and written communication skills, writing, editing and project management skills.
• Strong strategic and analytical capability.
• Keen ability to manage change and crisis communications issues.
• Strong ability to work with and influence senior leaders and other key stakeholders throughout the company on communications opportunities and issues.
• Ability to multi-task and quickly prioritize projects and work under pressure and tight deadlines.
• Self-starter, independent worker, strong team and cross functional collaborator.
• Attention to detail and an ability to plan and execute events and meetings on strict timelines and budgets.
• Create, maintain and foster relationships with key media, both traditional and digital, business and trade.
• Requires a high level of strategic thinking, creativity, comfort with digital/social media and superior attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to function as spokesperson as needed, both taped and live media interviews in positive and negative situations.
• Ability to make reasonably quick, well-informed strategic decisions.
• Excellent leadership and collaboration skills in effectively managing staff.

Preferred

• Master’s Degree in a related field of study.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits and growth opportunities
• Generous performance‑based bonuses
• 12% 401(k) match
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Professional development and clear career‑advancement pathways