Director State Government Affairs East

About the Company: This organization is dedicated to advancing a sustainable future by developing, financing, owning, and operating utility-scale and distributed solar and storage projects across the country. With a diverse team of innovative professionals, the company fosters a mission-driven environment and is looking for passionate individuals to contribute to its renewable energy goals and make a lasting impact.

About the Role: The organization is seeking a highly motivated and skilled individual to join its Policy & Permitting Team, primarily focusing on New York and New England, with the potential for expansion into other states based on business needs. In this role, you will help drive the advancement of infrastructure by influencing legislative and regulatory policies, building and nurturing relationships with key stakeholders, developing strategies to improve market access, and defending against regressive policy changes. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in energy policy, including experience in policy development, regulatory and legislative analysis, political strategy, and coalition-building. A proven ability to plan and execute successful political, legislative, or regulatory campaigns at the state level is also essential.

Responsibilities:

• Monitor, assess, and lead the development of state legislative and regulatory policy strategies that support the organization’s business objectives, including securing offtake revenue, a favorable tax/regulatory environment, and permitting and siting regulations for proposed projects.
• Build and manage strategic relationships with state officials to foster meaningful partnerships that support solar and storage infrastructure.
• Educate and inform internal teams on state-level policies that may impact the organization, collaborating with departments such as Project Development, Power Marketing, Fleet, M&A, Project Finance, Legal, and other Policy teams.
• Engage with trade associations and lead coalitions using third-party analysis and communication strategies to advocate for the organization’s business objectives.
• Manage lobbyists to ensure the organization is well-represented in legislative and regulatory matters, influencing outcomes in its favor.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; Advanced degree preferred
• 5 years of experience in energy policy
• 5 years of experience with state regulatory and/or legislative processes, with a proven record of success in policy campaigns
• Experience managing and collaborating with lobbyists, trade associations, businesses, and consultants
• Strong ability to build and maintain external partnerships with trade associations, lawmakers, and other companies
• Direct experience in project development, utilities, and/or government is a plus
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong research and analytical abilities, with the capacity to synthesize and communicate findings effectively
• Self-motivated and proactive with a high level of initiative
• Organized, detail-oriented, and diligent, able to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
• Willingness to travel approximately 30% of the time

Location: Preferred location is Albany, NY, but remote candidates in New York will also be considered.

Benefits:

• 15 days of Paid Time Off (PTO), accruing up to 20 days, plus 11 observed holidays
• 401(k) match
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and health insurance
• Wellness stipend, family planning stipend, and generous parental leave
• Tuition reimbursement
• Phone bill reimbursement
• Fully expensed company travel, including mileage reimbursement
• Company swag