Job Details

Communications Program Manager

The Corporate Communications Program Manager holds a pivotal role within the organization, overseeing both internal and external communication and outreach programs across diverse stakeholder groups and communication channels. Internally, they craft communication strategies, foster engagement, raise awareness about critical topics and initiatives, and manage crisis communications. Externally, they handle public relations and lead efforts to enhance customer engagement and experience for utility and corporate programs, products, and services.

Additionally, this position actively contributes as a strategic member of project and issues management teams. Their responsibilities encompass ensuring alignment across departments, safeguarding brand reputation, mitigating risks, and contributing to organizational success by shaping perception and operational effectiveness. Their ultimate goal is to align communication strategy with business priorities, facilitate informed decision-making, and enhance company goodwillall while upholding consistency with the corporate mission and values.

Responsibilities:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, executives, partners, and media.
• Develop and implement communication strategies for internal and external audiences.
• Manage communication projects, timelines, budgets, vendors, and performance metrics.
• Monitor communication trends, technologies, and industry developments to inform strategy.
• Provides strategic counsel on communications, earned media, and marketing strategies for Avista's business lines and initiatives.
• Creates content for a variety of audiences and channels, such as press releases, website content, annual reports, presentations, social media posts, and emails.
• Serves as company spokesperson and contact for media inquiries.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, or other related field is required.
• Three (3) years of related experience in a communications support role.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Demonstrated relationship-building, collaboration, and influencing skills while working with internal and external stakeholders.
• Sound writing skills and ability to communicate complex topics effectively for multiple audiences.
• Experience with compiling and crafting compelling communication materials and marketing content.
• Demonstrated creative and strategic thinking complemented with a bias for action.
• Ability to suggest new ideas and solutions, solve problems creatively, and develop new ideas and approaches to unusual or difficult situations.
• Highly accountable and driven to success in a fast-paced environment.
• Good judgment and interpersonal skills.
• Able to effectively work with a variety of organizations, management levels, cultures, and personalities in a professional and trusted way.
• Experience delivering thorough, strategic communication programs with a customer focus. Keen understanding of corporate risk management.
• Self-starter who can identify, evaluate, and execute effective communication programs for complex and sometimes controversial topics.

Hybrid work options are available for this role. The successful candidate will be required to work at our Spokane Washington headquarters, at least 3 days per week including Mondays and Tuesdays with additional day(s) determined by the manager.

To Apply: Complete an online application and attach your resume and cover letter to your profile. All documents must be attached to your application at the time of submitting your application for review. No documents can be attached after you click "Submit".

Total Rewards:

• Affordable healthcare options including medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 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
• Education and development support including tuition assistance
• Community giving programs encouraging employee engagement and impact
• Other optional benefits from Legal insurance, Pet insurance, and more (Eligibility subject to Bargaining Unit affiliation)

In compliance with state laws, we provide the full salary range for each position, along with the typical hiring range based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity. The full salary range for this position is $77,595 to $162,614. Questions regarding compliance with this requirement can be directed to ...@avistacorp.com.

Pre-employment screening requirements Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a drug test, background check and motor vehicle records review.

Avista's Commitment to Equal Opportunity Avista is a safe, inclusive workplace for people of all backgrounds, and we are committed to Equal Opportunity Employment. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, age, sensory, mental or physical disability (unless based upon a bona fide occupational qualification), Veteran status or any other classification protected by nondiscrimination laws.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.