External Affairs Manager (Tennessee)

SpaceXSpaceX·Remote(Flexible / Remote)
Other
Excel

WFA Digital Insight

The demand for skilled professionals in external affairs has grown significantly, with a 25% increase in job openings in the past year. As companies like SpaceX expand their operations, they require experts who can navigate complex government relationships and community outreach. With its ambitious mission to enable human life on Mars, SpaceX stands out as a pioneer in the industry. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their experience in public affairs, policy development, and stakeholder engagement. Before applying, it's essential to understand the company's commitment to innovation and its impact on the local community.

Job Description

About the Role

The External Affairs Manager will play a crucial role in leading SpaceX's external affairs efforts in Tennessee, focusing on local and state government relationships, community and business relations, and educational outreach. This role requires a deep understanding of the local political landscape, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build strong relationships with various stakeholders. As a key member of the team, the External Affairs Manager will work closely with internal stakeholders to ensure that SpaceX's community relations strategic plan is implemented effectively.

The successful candidate will have a strong background in public affairs, with experience in state and local government policy, advocacy, government affairs, and/or legislative navigation and crisis/issue management. They will be responsible for developing and maintaining a network of relationships with local government officials, lawmakers, and regulatory decision-makers. The ability to work independently, think strategically, and produce results in a fast-paced environment is essential.

SpaceX is committed to fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. As a company that is pushing the boundaries of space technology, it requires talented individuals who can think creatively, work effectively in teams, and thrive in a dynamic environment.

What You Will Do

  • Lead engagement with civic leaders across Memphis and the broader Tennessee region to support core SpaceX and xAI priorities
  • Develop, maintain, and build-upon a network of relationships with local government officials, lawmakers, and regulatory decision-makers
  • Monitor and analyze local and regional policy developments
  • Perform research as needed, develop policy and collateral materials
  • Partner with the SpaceX Communications team to identify and support outreach and messaging opportunities
  • Support the director of Government Affairs with statewide government relations priorities as needed
  • Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure alignment with SpaceX's community relations strategic plan
  • Develop and implement effective strategies to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders
  • Stay up-to-date with local and regional policy developments, anticipating potential impacts on SpaceX's operations

What We Are Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant field
  • 5+ years of experience working in public affairs, including but not limited to state and local government policy, advocacy, government affairs, and/or legislative navigation and crisis/issue management
  • Proven ability to develop and maintain strong relationships across a variety of stakeholder groups and issue areas
  • Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
  • Demonstrated history of achieving definitive, measurable outcomes through political or community engagement
  • Experience working on issues directly related to corporate community relations
  • Knowledge of local government affairs practices
  • Passion for SpaceX's mission and goals

Nice to Have

  • Experience and existing relationships with community leaders in Tennessee
  • Familiarity with SpaceX's operations and goals
  • Experience working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
  • Ability to travel statewide to support company priorities
  • Flexibility to work long hours and weekends when necessary

Benefits and Perks

  • Competitive salary
  • Opportunity to work with a pioneering company in the space industry
  • Collaborative and dynamic work environment
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options
  • Access to cutting-edge technology and innovation
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Stock options and equity participation

How to Stand Out

  • To stand out as a candidate, be prepared to provide specific examples of your experience in public affairs and community outreach.
  • Familiarize yourself with SpaceX's mission and values to demonstrate your passion for the company's goals.
  • Develop a strong understanding of local government affairs practices and policy developments in Tennessee.
  • Showcase your ability to work independently and think strategically, highlighting your achievements in previous roles.
  • Be prepared to discuss your experience with stakeholder engagement, relationship-building, and crisis management.
  • Emphasize your excellent communication and collaboration skills, providing examples of successful partnerships and initiatives.
  • Consider creating a portfolio or samples of your work, such as policy briefs, community outreach plans, or press releases, to demonstrate your skills and expertise.

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