Community Affairs Leader

Community Affairs Leader

Cypress Creek Energy is powering a sustainable future, one project at a time. We develop, finance, own and operate utility-scale and distributed solar and storage projects across the country. Fostering a diverse group of innovative thinkers from all backgrounds, Cypress people are drawn to work in a purpose-driven organization. We hope you will join us.

Cypress Creek Energy is seeking an experienced community affairs leader to drive project development and execution across a regional portfolio in the southern United States.

The Community Affairs Lead will drive strategic engagement plans, build durable relationships with communities and public officials, and serve as a senior spokesperson for projects. The ideal candidate brings strong judgment, deep communication expertise, and the ability to translate complex project information into clear, compelling narratives that build trust and public support.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute comprehensive stakeholder engagement strategies for projects across the assigned region
• Build and maintain relationships with community leaders, advocacy groups, and other key stakeholders
• Conduct stakeholder mapping and develop targeted outreach strategies
• Develop and implement plans that build public understanding and support for projects

Establish and maintain relationships with elected officials, municipalities, regulatory agencies, and government entities, in collaboration with Government Affairs

Represent the company at public hearings, community meetings, and critical discussions

Identify permitting and regulatory risks and communicate them effectively to leadership

Act as or support project spokespersons by leading media engagement, public presentations, and community forums, while coaching others to deliver clear, credible, and impactful messaging

Develop messaging, presentations, and written materials

Partner with internal teams on media relations strategy and execution

Develop engagement plans aligned with project goals

Translate complex information into accessible communications

Craft stories highlighting project value and community benefits

Work with Government Affairs, Development, Project Execution, and Operations teams

Lead identification and mitigation of risks related to community acceptance, stakeholder sentiment, and social license.

Provide guidance on engagement best practices

Lead and mentor team members or consultants

Manage external vendors

Contribute to a collaborative team environment

Education & Experience Required

• Bachelor's degree
• 5+ years of relevant experience
• Experience with municipalities, communities, elected officials, and/or regulatory agencies
• Strong stakeholder engagement and planning skills
• Public speaking and spokesperson experience
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to simplify complex information
• Experience in media relations
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Willingness to travel up to 40%
• Embrace and live by the missions and values of Cypress Creek Energy

Preferred

• Southeastern US Regional experience
• Experience in energy, infrastructure, or related industries
• Experience managing team members or consultants

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinker with strong execution skills
• Skilled relationship builder
• Comfortable managing complex and challenging situations
• Organized and detail-oriented
• Collaborative team player
• Ability to anticipate risks and develop solutions

Additional Expectations

• Represent Cypress Creek Energy at events and public meetings
• Maintain understanding of regional stakeholder and policy dynamics
• Support national initiatives as needed

This is a role based in Durham, NC, Asheville, NC on a 3 day week hybrid schedule with the expectation to travel as needed up to 40%. We also open to remote candidates who reside within the following Southern states: AL,AR,DE,GA,KY,LA,MD, MS,NC,OK,SC,TN,TX,VA,WV

The salary range for the position is $120,000-$150,000 plus bonus and benefits. Compensation may vary outside of this range depending on a number of factors, including a candidate's qualifications, skills, competencies and experience, and location.

15 days of Paid Time Off, accrual up to 20 days, 11 observed holidays.

401(k) Match

Comprehensive package including medical, dental, vision and health insurance

Wellness stipend, family planning stipend, and generous parental leave

Tuition Reimbursement

Phone Bill Reimbursement

Company Swag

Cypress Creek Energy is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace that is inclusive and values diversity, and we encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Please be aware of recruiting scamsofficial communications will only come from @ccrenew.com, we will never request personal or financial information, and any suspicious activity should be reported to HR@ccrenew.com.