More than a career - a chance to make a difference in people's lives. Build an exciting, rewarding career with us - help us make a difference for millions of people every day. Consider joining the Duke Energy team, where you'll find a friendly work environment, opportunities for growth and development, recognition for your work, and competitive pay and benefits. Job Summary The Public Affairs & Communications Manager at Duke Energy Ohio & Kentucky is a multifaceted role that encompasses media relations, communications, and public affairs strategy. The individual in this position will lead media relations strategy, serve as the company spokesperson, and manage both proactive and reactive media relations. They will also provide comprehensive, ongoing communications support to the State President and, on occasion, key leaders and some external facing employees. They will also support the company's public affairs objectives. Additionally, they will collaborate with consultants, provide strategic guidance to external stakeholders, and support the Director of Public Affairs & Communications in departmental management. This role is crucial in enhancing the company's reputation and achieving its business priorities. The Public Affairs & Communications Manager is responsible for: Managing proactive and reactive media relations and serving as the lead company spokesperson in the region. Drafting and distributing press releases. Providing executive positioning and communications support for the State President Ohio & Kentucky, including preparing thought leadership content, speeches, presentations and other logistical support for public engagements and events. Providing communications support for certain external facing employees. Providing supplementary communications counsel and execution support for key internal stakeholders (e.g., Federal and State Affairs, Infrastructure Engagement, State President and staff, Corporate Communications, Regulatory Affairs, Legal) Supporting communications for Foundation activities, including grant announcements, events and other amplification strategies for philanthropy efforts. Supporting executive leadership in the development and execution of integrated public affairs plans to support top regulatory and legislative business priorities. Build relationships with local media around storytelling that is beneficial to the company and our business priorities. Developing and supporting execution of paid media strategies in support of reputational and public affairs objectives, including guiding content creation, targeting and approvals. Providing strategic guidance on relationships with external stakeholders at the state and regional levels, such as trade associations, advocacy organizations and customers. Collaborating with and supporting management of communications and public affairs consultants. Supporting the Director, Public Affairs & Communications Public Affairs in the management of department business, including goal setting, strategic planning, budget management, process improvement and executive updates. Responsibilities Media Relations: Lead strategy and execution of Duke Energy Ohio & Kentucky's media relations strategy, including serving as the lead spokesperson for the utility in the region. Responsible for leading proactive and reactive media relations activities including drafting and distributing press releases, developing statements in response to media inquiries, proactive pitching to secure positive media coverage and monitoring national, state and local news to identify engagement opportunities or respond to issues. Proactively build relationships with key local media members. Communications: Responsible for providing executive positioning and communications support for the State President Ohio & Kentucky. This includes preparing thought leadership content, speeches, and pres