Head of Government Relations

Job Description

Located in the heart of Central Ohio, Illuminate USA is transforming solar panel manufacturing from our cutting-edge facility in Pataskala. As a new standalone joint venture established by two global leaders in renewable energy, we've rapidly grown to over 1,500 associates and are now fully operational in our 1.1 million-square-foot factory. Our vision is to establish one of the largest solar panel manufacturing operations in the Western Hemisphere.

This is an exciting time to join Illuminate USA as we continue to grow and innovate. We're not just building solar panels-we're building a team of dedicated, passionate associates eager to make a real impact. If you're looking to be part of a collaborative, people-focused, and forward-thinking workplace, we want to hear from you!

We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and continuous opportunities for career growth. Come join us on this journey to create a brighter, more sustainable future in the Columbus area.

Job Summary:

Reporting directly to our Chief Legal Officer (CLO), this role serves as Illuminate USA's primary representative in interactions with federal, state, and local elected officials-advocating for the company's interests and helping to shape public policy initiatives. The position requires strategic engagement with lawmakers, active involvement in government relations committees, and representation in key trade associations and relevant non-governmental organizations, coalitions, and steering committees on issues relevant to the business.

Success in this position demands a deep understanding of the political process, the ability to analyze and track legislation, and the skills to inform, influence, and build relationships with elected officials. The ideal candidate will be comfortable with public speaking, hosting events, and navigating complex policy discussions, while maintaining a strong grasp of legal and regulatory matters affecting the company. Operating in a highly visible, fast-paced, and sometimes volatile political landscape, this role carries significant brand and reputation considerations, requiring a proactive and strategic approach to government relations.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and deepen strategic relationships with federal, state and local elected officials, their staff, and agencies
• Advocate on behalf of the company at meetings and other public venues on policies that could influence the growth and competitiveness of the company
• Identify emerging political issues and inform company leadership to help navigate future business decisions
• Manage the company's network of business and trade association partnerships
• Track legislative and political developments and provide feedback on proposed legislation
• Oversee budget for related memberships and sponsorships
• Oversee Illuminate's use of contract lobbyists
• Work closely with Government Relations teams of Illuminate's affiliated companies to provide a cohesive government relations strategy.
• Establish and maintain working relationships with internal business leaders to develop a working knowledge of their priorities and use that to provide timely updates on policy developments that have an impact on their areas of the business
• Develop subject matter expertise on a wide range of policy issues impacting the business, such as manufacturing, supply chain, taxes, trade compliance and provide insightful analysis on those issues with internal business partners
• Must be able to perform the essential job functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Political Science, or a related field preferred
• 10+ years of experience in business, government relations, public affairs, external engagement, or related field
• Proficiency in the legislative process, to analyze and react to political trends at all levels of government
• Ability to apply discretion and sensitivity while working with confidential information
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a distinct ability to distill complex ideas into simple, understandable messaging
• Ability to build relationships with external partners and to work collaboratively across diverse groups
• Sound judgment with the ability to assess risks to Illuminate USA's reputation, work autonomously and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to facilitate meetings, resolve conflict, build consensus, establish rapport, and collaborate effectively across departments and all levels of team members including senior leadership
• Experience as a legislative aide or lobbyist at the state or federal level preferred.

At Illuminate USA, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We proudly embrace equal opportunity for all, ensuring that all qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Your unique background and experiences are valued here, as we believe they strengthen our team and drive our mission forward.

Illuminate is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.