Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) · 2 months ago
External Affairs Manager
Irvine, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
5+ years expIrvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) is a progressive, values-driven agency known for its innovative water management practices. They are seeking an External Affairs Manager responsible for developing and managing the District's community relations program, engaging with community leaders, and enhancing IRWD's visibility in Orange County.
Professional ServicesService IndustryWater
Responsibilities
Building and sustaining relationships between IRWD and community leaders, groups, and stakeholders across the District's service area
Strategically creating a more visible and active IRWD community presence within the District's service area and Orange County
Engaging and building strong relationships with community groups, regional associations, and local community leaders
Initiating outreach to key segments of the Orange County community and IRWD's service area that are less familiar with the District
Coordinating with other IRWD departments on strategic communications so that these communications properly address and reach segments of the community less familiar with the District
Directing the District's speakers bureau program, IRWD Connect, and IRWD Community Facilities Program
Developing and maintaining a strong community relations and engagement strategy, which cultivates positive relationships for the District with the communities it serves and the stakeholders it works with
Increasing and maintaining IRWD's presence and participation within regional associations, serving as an IRWD staff representative to local and regional associations and groups
Coordinating and implementing the District's ongoing local government relations outreach and advocacy program
Coordinating meetings of IRWD Board members and management with local elected officials
Producing presentations and outreach communications as needed specific to the community relations program
Arranging, preparing, and delivering presentations and tours to various industry groups, community, civic groups, and other stakeholders
Assisting with other activities of the Strategic Communications and Advocacy Department, as appropriate
Running the District's Speakers Bureau, IRWD Connect, and Community Facilities Program
Managing IRWD's exhibit and booth presence at various events and managing association memberships and event sponsorships on behalf of the District
Supervising direct reports and assigning and monitoring tasks
Assisting with the preparation of the annual budget and prepare specifications
Proactively establishing and maintaining relationships and communications with other departments, water industry groups, and public agencies in efforts to promote and implement the District's priorities
Effectively and regularly communicating with District management and the Board of Directors, including notifying them about community events and other community engagement opportunities
Attending and participating in meetings of the Board of Directors and related committees as required, presenting analyses and recommendations to the Board members as requested
Attending public and other outside meetings and functions on behalf of the District outside the normal workday, including on nights and weekends, both in and outside of Orange County
Participating in community events, tours, and trips and other tasks on evenings, early mornings and weekends as necessary
Qualification
Required
Equivalent to a bachelor's degree in public policy, communication, public administration, political science, journalism, public relations, or a related field is required
Five (5) years of experience in an external affairs/community relations position with demonstrated ability to manage people, relationships, and projects
Three (3) years of supervisory experience
Valid Class 'C' California Driver's License
Knowledge of local government policies, operations, and procedures
Knowledge of communications and public relations principles and outreach strategies
Knowledge of copywriting, business writing, and editing principles
Basic knowledge of budget preparation and administration
Knowledge of research techniques and strategies
Ability to use MS Office Suite (Word, Excel)
Ability to communicate effectively with all levels
Ability to write, detail-oriented editing, and proofreading ability
Ability to remain calm in crisis and emergency situations
Ability to use discretion when handling and disseminating sensitive information
Preferred
Water industry experience is desirable
Benefits
Retirement benefits
Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
Paid Vacation
Paid Holidays
Sick Leave
Flexible Spending Accounts
Educational Assistance
Company
Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD)
IRWD was established in 1961 as a California Water District.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageCompany data provided by crunchbase