Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Communication

Are we RIGHT for you? The word RIGHT stands for what we VALUE: Respect, Integrity, Growth, Honesty and Teamwork. Why join our team? Middlesex Water Company (NASDAQ:MSEX) has been an industry leader since 1897. We promote professional and personal development in a work environment that is supportive and responsive. We understand the importance of our services and the individuals who uphold our reputation. Joining our team means that you have a multitude of benefits that support you in and out of the workplace such as- full medical, dental, and vision benefits, 401k, paid time off, tuition assistance, learning and development opportunities, employee assistance program, and more. To learn more, please visit Job Summary: Reporting to the CEO, the Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Communication, is responsible for developing, leading, and executing the company's communication and public affairs strategy ensuring that all external and internal messaging aligns with the company's goals, values, and brand identity. You will manage the corporate communications, public relations, media relations, and crisis communications while building and maintaining a strong company reputation with stakeholders, customers, and the public. Your role will involve close collaboration with the C-suite, and department heads to align communication strategies with business objectives and ensure transparency with shareholders, regulators, and the public. Key Responsibilities: Corporate Affairs: Develop and execute a comprehensive corporate affairs strategy that supports the organization's mission, vision, and business goals. Act as a Company's spokesperson when necessary, ensuring that the company's image is well represented in all public appearances and press interactions. Oversee government relations, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements at federal, state, and local levels, and advocate for industry-friendly policies. Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, regulatory bodies, and industry groups. Monitor emerging regulatory issues, developments and trends impacting the water industry and provide timely advice to leadership. Communications: Lead internal and external communication to ensure cohesive and consistent messaging across all platforms. Align messaging across all communication platforms including digital, social media, press releases and internal communications. Manage all internal communications initiatives to foster a culture of transparency, engagement and collaboration among employees. Collaborate with communications team to align branding and public messaging with overall business strategy. Organizing events that promote the company's image, such as conferences, community service events, and stakeholder meetings, including internal conferences and special events. Prepare for and Manage communications during crises including reputational risks, product issues or other sensitive matters. Develop and implement crisis communication plans and train communication team on best practices. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Drive the company's CSR initiatives, focusing on sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. Serve as a key voice in shaping the company's strategy around corporate responsibility, including water conservation, environmental impacts, and community partnerships. Communicate the company's ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategy and performance to investors, regulators, and the public. Leadership and Team Management: Lead a high-performing team of communications and corporate affairs professionals providing guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback. Serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO on corporate communications and reputational matters. Actively contribute to the overall strategic direction of the company as a member of the executive leadership team. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Business Administration, Political Science, or a related field; Master's degree preferred. 10+ years of experience in corporate communications, public affairs, or a similar field, preferably in a publicly traded company. Proven experience in managing public relations, media relations, crisis communication and brand strategy. Strong understanding of regulatory requirements, particularly in highly regulated industries like water, energy, or utilities. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with experience serving as a company spokesperson. Experience in digital and social media strategy. Strong leadership skills, with experience managing teams and collaborating with senior executives. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities. Familiarity with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting and initiatives. Experience with Public Company SEC Reporting Requirements. Key Competencies: Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement strategies that enhance corporate reputation and support long-term business goals. Leadership: Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and inspire others. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with executive leadership and cross-functional teams. Communication: Excellent interpersonal, presentation, and written communication skills. Relationship Management: Strong ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, investors, media, and internal teams. Crisis Management: Ability to manage communications in high-stakes situations and ensure effective risk mitigation. Industry Knowledge: A deep understanding of the water industry, environmental issues, and the regulatory landscape impacting publicly traded companies. Candidates must possess authorization to work in the United States. Candidates must be able to pass a drug screen, pre-employment physical, background check, and have a valid driver's license. No phone calls please. We thank all applicants in advance for their interest; however, only those applicants who are being considered for the position or are currently employed by Middlesex Water Company will be contacted. Middlesex Water Company and its' subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Created: 2024-11-02