Head of External Affairs
Apply NowCompany: Qcells
Location: Cartersville, GA 30120
Description:
Description
Hanwha Qcells designs, builds, and manages financially sustainable solar photovoltaic (PV) solutions. The company brings a decade of global leadership in solar PV to North America, combining best-of-world technology, processes, and partnerships to deliver utility-grade solar PV solutions customized for the US energy market.
Summary
The Head of External Affairs is a senior leadership role responsible for shaping and executing the company's external engagement strategy across government relations, public communications, and community involvement. This experienced and strategic leader will oversee all interactions with government entities, regulatory bodies, the media, and local communities to protect and enhance the company's reputation, ensure compliance, and build trusted, long-term relationships with key stakeholders.
With over 10 years of progressive experience in external affairs and a deep understanding of public policy, media relations, and stakeholder engagement, the ideal candidate brings a strong track record of leadership, strategic influence, and crisis communication.
Responsibilities
1. Government Relations & Regulatory Affairs
2. Public Relations & Strategic Communications
3. Community Engagement & CSR
Key Strategic Involvement Areas
Qualifications
Hanwha Q CELLS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.
Hanwha Qcells designs, builds, and manages financially sustainable solar photovoltaic (PV) solutions. The company brings a decade of global leadership in solar PV to North America, combining best-of-world technology, processes, and partnerships to deliver utility-grade solar PV solutions customized for the US energy market.
Summary
The Head of External Affairs is a senior leadership role responsible for shaping and executing the company's external engagement strategy across government relations, public communications, and community involvement. This experienced and strategic leader will oversee all interactions with government entities, regulatory bodies, the media, and local communities to protect and enhance the company's reputation, ensure compliance, and build trusted, long-term relationships with key stakeholders.
With over 10 years of progressive experience in external affairs and a deep understanding of public policy, media relations, and stakeholder engagement, the ideal candidate brings a strong track record of leadership, strategic influence, and crisis communication.
Responsibilities
1. Government Relations & Regulatory Affairs
- Build and manage relationships with the State of Georgia, county governments, and regulatory agencies.
- Monitor legislative and policy developments; craft and execute strategies to mitigate risks and support business objectives.
- Oversee permitting and ensure compliance with regulations in areas such as environment, labor, and construction.
- Represent the company in policy discussions and serve as a key voice in shaping regulatory frameworks.
2. Public Relations & Strategic Communications
- Lead media strategy, including handling inquiries, preparing press releases, and managing official statements.
- Direct branding and messaging across digital platforms, social media, and other communication channels to promote a cohesive corporate identity.
- Develop and implement comprehensive crisis communication strategies in response to incidents or public scrutiny.
- Advise executive leadership on reputation management and external communication priorities.
3. Community Engagement & CSR
- Serve as the primary liaison to local communities and residents, particularly around the company's facilities.
- Lead the planning and execution of community engagement initiatives, including partnerships with local schools and participation in events (e.g., Bartow County activities).
- Design and manage Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs that reflect company values and generate meaningful community impact.
- Foster open, proactive dialogue with stakeholders to strengthen trust and collaboration.
Key Strategic Involvement Areas
- Policy Strategy & Advocacy:
- Anticipate regulatory trends and develop forward-thinking strategies to address and influence government actions and regulatory changes.
- Stakeholder & Community Relations:
- Build goodwill and establish enduring relationships with local leaders, schools, and civic organizations.
- Media & Public Relations:
- Drive media relations and public messaging to reinforce company values and promote transparency.
- Crisis Preparedness & Response:
- Lead communication efforts during crises to protect company brand image and maintain stakeholder confidence, ensuring clear communication, reputational risk mitigation, and internal coordination.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Public Affairs, Communications, Political Science, or related field (Master's preferred).
- 10+ years of experience in government relations, external affairs, or public policy, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership capacity.
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex stakeholder environments.
- Strong strategic thinking, negotiation, and communication skills with executive presence.
- Demonstrated experience in crisis management, community engagement, and corporate advocacy.
Hanwha Q CELLS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.