What are the responsibilities and job description for the Public Affairs Manager position at Georgia Transmission Corporation?
Georgia Transmission Corporation (GTC) is seeking an experienced and strategic Public Affairs Manager to assist the corporation's external communications efforts. This role will serve as a key advisor to executives and staff on public and media relations and will represent GTC as an official spokesperson. The successful candidate will develop and execute communication strategies that support corporate goals, protect GTC's public image, and foster strong community and government relationships - particularly around the development of electric transmission construction projects throughout the state.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Strategic Communications Development
- Develop and implement comprehensive public relations and communications strategies aligned with GTC's goals.
- Tailor messaging for diverse audiences (media, elected officials, property owners, communities).
- Media Relations
- Serve as an official spokesperson for the corporation.
- Provide media training and counsel to executives and staff.
- Manage high-stakes or crisis media situations.
- Maintain a media contact list and foster relationships with key reporters and outlets.
- Community, Government & Stakeholder Engagement
- Support communication efforts for construction projects to build public support and reduce opposition.
- Engage with local communities, elected officials, and property owners affected by transmission projects.
- Ensure compliance with Title 22 of the Georgia Code (public meetings, notifications).
- Build coalitions with civic groups, chambers of commerce, and local governments.
- Issue & Risk Management
- Address external concerns before they escalate into legal or regulatory challenges.
- Monitor public sentiment and prepare proactive communications to reduce opposition.
- Collaborate with legal, engineering, and project teams on risk mitigation.
- Internal & External Communications
- Write, edit, and approve press releases, newsletters, speeches, and internal messages.
- Review and provide editorial support on all corporate materials.
- Promote understanding of electric transmission issues to the public and internal audiences.
- Corporate Contributions
- Evaluate and make recommendations on requests for sponsorships or charitable contributions to align with corporate PR strategy.
KEY RELATIONSHIPS TO MAINTAIN
- GTC Board Members and Executives
- Elected Officials and Local Government Leaders
- Property Owners and Community Members
- Regulatory and Government Agencies
- Business and Industry Groups
- Media (mostly local and state-level)
- Internal GTC Departments (Legal, Engineering, Construction, etc.)
KEY SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Crisis communication experience
- Familiarity with Georgia regulatory law (especially Title 22)
- Political acumen and understanding of public affairs
- Project management and stakeholder coordination
- Strategic thinking and media literacy
Education: Bachelors degree in Communications, or a related field.
Experience: A minimum of 5 (five) years of experience in public relations, community relations, or media relations, preferably within the energy, utility, or infrastructure sectors.
Equivalent Experience: A Bachelors degree, communications experience and at least 3 (three) years of experience in the utility industry working directly with the public on new construction projects.
Specialized Skills (e.g., typing, computers, software, tools and equipment uses, etc.): Microsoft Office, Crisis communications, excellent relationship-building skills, superior written and verbal communication skills, public speaking, detail oriented, word-processing.
