Executive Advisor, Federal Affairs

As a leader in advancing New York’s energy transition, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has remained a credible, objective and trusted partner in our State’s energy planning as well as deploying new and innovative technologies to expand New York’s economy. NYSERDA has worked for the past 50 years to protect the environment and help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, lower energy costs and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. NYSERDA engages with stakeholders including residents, business owners, developers, community leaders, local government officials, universities, utilities, investors, entrepreneurs, and more, to develop, invest, and foster conditions that: 

• Attract the private sector capital investment needed to expand New York’s clean energy economy. 
• Overcome barriers to using clean energy at a large-scale in New York. 
• Enable New York’s communities and residents to benefit equitably in the clean energy transition. 

Job Overview

The Executive Advisor, Federal Affairs has an informed understanding of the federal government in Washington D.C. with respect to energy legislation, policy, and regulation. They are responsible for gathering, analyzing, interpreting, and distributing the relevant intelligence across NYSERDA, as well as leading cross-functional ad hoc teams in developing strategies to advance NYSERDA’s business operations in alignment with organizational objectives. 

The Executive Advisor, Federal Affairs is an experienced leader with in-depth knowledge of the federal government processes, policies, and regulation and has an extensive network to achieve Authority outcomes. 

This position anticipates a high level of in-person engagement with federal government individuals, and qualified applicants living currently in the DC/NOVA/MD area are highly encouraged to apply for this position. This is a fully remote position from existing NYSERDA offices.

Primary Responsibilities

• Actively follow federal policy and administrative developments and understand and translate their potential implications on NYSERDA projects, programs, and initiatives.
• Monitor congressional actions and hearings.
• Disseminate relevant findings and insight on federal engagements with NYSERDA’s President and executive management.
• Collaborate across NYSERDA offices in the development and execution of federal government affairs strategies.
• Coordinate with the New York Governor’s DC office on strategy approach and congressional or administration meetings and engagements.
• Collaborate with other states, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and coalitions, where appropriate, to inform, prioritize and protect NYSERDA’s interests.
• Conduct interviews with industry leaders and subject matter experts to inform NYSERDA strategic priorities and positions.
• Provide informational services, including briefings, webinars, factsheets, and white papers, tailored to target audiences; draft appropriate letters or responsive documents on behalf of NYSERDA in various forums.
• Establish resources and tools to document engagements, key information learned, and any follow up activities.
• Utilizes data analysis, project management methodologies, and industry best practices to develop, implement, and monitor process improvement initiatives.
• Creates and maintains performance metrics and reports.
• Works autonomously.
• Goals are generally communicated in "solution" or project goal terms.
• Provides subject matter expertise for the work group through knowledge in the area of specialization.
• Works on advanced, complex technical projects or business issues requiring state of the art technical or industry knowledge.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Perform all job responsibilities with respect, fairness, consistency, and inclusion.

Minimum Qualifications

• Required: Bachelor’s degree with 10 years of relevant experience.
• Experience working in the federal government, with strong knowledge and insight into the federal congressional, administrative, and regulatory environment.
• Knowledge of energy systems, and energy-related policies; Energy industry experience is a plus.
• A demonstrated track record of interacting with federal administrative or regulatory bodies/agencies in advancing energy strategies and policies from concept to implementation.
• Strong analytical skills, as well as ability to provide insights into both administrative and political dynamics formulating federal activity.
• High degree of personal integrity and respect for confidentiality.
• Superior organizational, time management and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in technical writing/editing skills.
• Skill in managing multiple activities, delivering on commitments, and operating with speed, accuracy, and strong judgment.
• Must be adaptable, a self-starter and function well independently. 
• Demonstrated problem-solving ability with a proactive and collaborative style, with ability and appetite to think through complex problems with technical and non-technical components.
• Exceptional organizational, time management and planning skills to successfully handle multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Track record for building effective partnerships among multiple stakeholders. 
• Top-notch presentation and interpersonal skills that resonate with audiences of different backgrounds; the ability to communicate persuasively, concisely, and unambiguously in speech and writing.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to effectively present and execute innovative ideas.
• Proven ability for continue improvement and process improvements.
• Proven ability in strategic project management and trend analysis.
• Proven ability in providing workflow optimization and performance metrics.
• Perform all job responsibilities with respect, fairness, consistency, and inclusion.
• High proficiency with MS Office Suite.
• Strong attention to detail with a high degree of accuracy in all duties.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree with 8 years of relevant experience.

Please submit two files, one for your cover letter and another for a resume.

Please note that during the application process, you may be prompted to opt-in to Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) scoring. This is an automatic request in the ADP system but is not a feature that is used by NYSERDA in its recruiting and hiring process. Your response will have no impact on your application to NYSERDA.

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