Manager Communications and Content

Strategic Communications Manager

Position Purpose This position oversees the development and execution of strategic communications that engage external stakeholdersincluding customers, shareholders, media and otherswhile advancing the company's reputation. The role combines content strategy and messaging, media relations management, executive communications, and collaboration with marketing. The position also includes leadership responsibilities such as coaching, mentoring, and performance management of team members.

Duties and Responsibilities

Team Leadership and Talent Development Lead and manage a team of communications professionals; provide day-to-day direction, coaching, feedback, and performance management. Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team culture aligned with company values and strategic priorities. Ensure alignment and integration across team projects and communication priorities.

Strategic Communications and Messaging Develop and manage communication plans that support business objectives, enhance company reputation, and reinforce brand identity. Collaborate with marketing team to launch programs, products and services, drive brand awareness and customer engagement, and ensure brand consistency across communications. Partner with executive leadership and functional teams to define and deliver clear, consistent messaging to diverse audiences, including customers, shareholders and employees. Support executive leadership with internal and external communications; draft talking points, op-eds, and presentations. Provide communications counsel and thought leadership to senior leaders on issues, reputation risk, and strategic messaging.

Media Relations Serve as a primary point of contact and company spokesperson for media inquiries; build and maintain strong relationships with reporters and media outlets. Draft and edit high-impact content including press releases, executive remarks, speeches, talking points, and thought leadership articles. Manage media response and develop media strategies that enhance brand credibility, amplify brand and drive positive brand narratives. Support executive visibility through external speaking opportunities, op-eds and thought leadership.

Content Development Lead the development of omni-channel content strategies that include digital, print, video, and social formats. Develop content and promotional materials, manage and contribute to annual and sustainability reports. Provide communication support for product launches, marketing initiatives, and customer programs. Develop and execute communication plans to promote marketing campaigns and key messaging through various channels, including press releases, social media, and internal communications.

Brand and Reputation Management Collaborate to shape and communicate the company's vision, strategy, and differentiators to external audiences. Monitor media coverage, public sentiment, and trends to inform strategy and messaging; prepare timely responses to issues as needed. Support crisis communication efforts in coordination with leadership and operational teams.

Project and Stakeholder Management Oversee and contribute to multiple concurrent communication projects from concept to completion. Collaborate across departments to support cross-functional initiatives. Manage editorial calendars and coordinate internal approvals for communication deliverables. Manage budgets, timelines, and vendor relationships to ensure efficient execution of communication deliverables.

Behavioral Competencies

Communicates Effectively - Develops and delivers multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the needs of different audiences. Strategic Mindset - Sees ahead to future possibilities and translates them into breakthrough strategies. Instills Trust - Gains the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity. Drives Results - Consistently achieves results, even under tough circumstances.

Qualifications Skills Outstanding writing, editing, and verbal communication skills, with an ability to simplify complex topics. Strong executive presence; comfortable acting as a spokesperson or representing leadership in high-profile settings. Ability to align communications with business goals and anticipate reputational risks or opportunities. Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Proven ability to build trust and work effectively across all levels of the organization. Skilled at influencing and advising senior leaders and navigating sensitive or high-stakes communications. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams); Adobe Acrobat Pro a plus. Deep understanding of media landscape and experience managing media strategy and digital content.

Education Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.

Experience Minimum of 810 years of progressive experience in corporate communications, marketing or public relations, including significant leadership or supervisory experience. Experience working in a publicly traded, regulated utility or similarly complex industry is preferred.

Other Requirements Willingness and flexibility to work outside of normal business hours, including nights or weekends, during emergencies or high-visibility events. Strong commitment to customer satisfaction, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.

Job Location The position hybrid and office days are located in downtown Madison, Wisconsin, where MGE is an active participant in community efforts to preserve the area's extraordinary quality of life. We offer free, on-site parking and are located near biking trails and bus stops. Many employees enjoy the use of our many on-site EV charging stations.