Manager Community Relations

The Manager Community Relations offers a dynamic and exciting opportunity to operate the NY Energy Zone, one of our federally required visitors centers, showcasing the importance of NYPA's transmission assets and the Clark Energy Center. Ideal for a self-starter, this role allows for creativity and independence while adhering to state and federal regulations and includes direct supervision of union employees. The ideal candidate will manage the vibrant operations of the visitors' center, craft engaging programming and special events, supervise staff, coordinate facility maintenance and renovations, and promote the visitor center through active participation in tourism-oriented organizations.

This role offers exciting opportunities to create bespoke community events like the signature Wildlife Festival and Touch a Truck events, develop captivating STEM educational programs, and oversee and maintain a cutting-edge science museum. The manager will bring expertise in navigating established processes, conducting outreach to internal and external entities, sharing information, and briefing NYPA business units and executive staff. They develop and implement innovative initiatives, engage in community outreach to elevate the organization's image, and execute projects that enhance the economic, social, and environmental quality of life in communities.

Candidates must be able to build and maintain proactive, mutually beneficial relationships with local, state, and federal elected officials, regulatory bodies, community and environmental stakeholders, and business and economic development stakeholders, all aimed at enhancing NYPA's reputation and benefiting all New Yorkers. Additionally, networking with other area attractions adds another layer of excitement and creativity. All activities are conducted within budgeted guidelines and in accordance with IBEW/NYPA contracts to ensure efficient and effective operations.

• Manage operation of the visitors' center, develop programming and special events, and schedule tours. Achieve a detailed technical knowledge of the plant's operation in order to relate information to staff and the general public.
• Supervise, train, and schedule the visitor's center's full- and part-time staff in accordance with good business practices, efficiency and in accordance with IBEW/NYPA contract.
• Coordinate with Power Project staff and associated vendors, maintenance, renovations, repair and updates of the buildings, grounds, and exhibits in order to present a positive image and for safe operations.
• Devise and implement a comprehensive program of community activities to increase public acceptance of NYPA to include educational programs at the visitor center and outreach programs within the overall region. Establish the visitor center as an educational resource for students, teachers and the public.
• Promote the visitor center through active participation in various national, state and local tourism-oriented organizations. Represent NYPA as appropriate to increase the visibility of the visitor center as a tourist attraction.
• Effectively supervise operations, staffing, maintenance and program activities within budgeted guidelines and in accordance with IBEW/NYPA contracts.

• Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
• Demonstrated experience in event planning and coordination.
• Strong management, organizational, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to achieve a detailed knowledge of NYPA and site specific operations.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize work flow and recommend programs and activities that best meet NYPA objectives.
• Demonstrated initiative and creativity to develop and implement education and visitor center programs in the region.
• Familiar with basic Microsoft Office computer programs (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint) and internet browser functions
• Basic understanding of the operation of audio-visual equipment including computer based Power Point presentations, operation of DVD
  

• Associate degree, bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience required.
• 3 years experience in public affairs, public relations or community relations field.
• 2 years' experience in a supervisory or team lead capacity or related experience

Up to 25% travel within NY State.