Communications Lead: Carbon-Free Electricity

Overview:  

RMI is seeking a Communications Lead to support the creation and execution of communications plans that drive the conversation around climate action and the energy transition. They will make use of diverse digital channels and media to advance the goals of the Carbon-Free Electricity team and target key audiences and stakeholders, such as policymakers, media, and the public.

Individuals from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. 

A successful hire will be a strong team player who enjoys bringing communications strategies to life by leveraging RMI data, research, and subject matter experts on the Carbon-Free Electricity team. In addition, the Communications Lead will partner with RMI editorial, design, traditional and digital media, and web to develop the most effective messages and campaigns. 

The Carbon-Free Electricity (CFE) Program supports the rapid and equitable decarbonization of electricity systems globally to support modern, clean economies the world over. Through communications we aim to bring this vision to life and inspire action to make it a reality.  

CFE at RMI works closely with utilities, regulators, businesses, advocates, and customers to evolve grid institutions, policies, regulations, business models, and processes in support of the transition to a clean energy future. We employ a unique combination of research, consulting, and collaboration to support individuals and organizations to innovate and implement transformative energy solutions.

An ideal candidate will have 3 to 5 years of experience in communications, marketing, or journalism, with a passion for storytelling. A strong connection to RMI’s mission and expertise in the energy system is highly desired. This position reports directly to the Head of Global Communications, Carbon-Free Electricity.

Specific Roles and Responsibilities  

• Manage communications projects from inception to completion, working with editorial, design, and media to ensure projects are completed on time and in line with requirements
• Strategize with clear goals, target audiences, and tactical paths forward to execute a project
• Build media lists for the overall team and specific projects
• Identify new reporters to proactively connect with
• Write press releases and pitches for reporters
• Draft op-eds, blogs, statements, and other forms of thought leadership for key program spokespeople
• Compile key statistics and research to inform messages and communications products
• Manage and grow the team social media channels and digital presence
• Advise and maintain LinkedIn and other social platforms for key program spokespeople to increase the team leadership’s public presence
• Identify stories that advance RMI’s overall brand goals
• Proactively leverage news-making moments, milestones, and impacts to drive awareness and interest in the program with target audiences, influencers, donors, policymakers, and decision makers
• Maintain editorial calendar in conjunction with Communications & Marketing Lead/Specialist to ensure all program communications activities are coordinated, including things like internal and external publications, speaking engagements, media pitching, and digital and social media campaigns
• Help develop and report against metrics of success and track activities against outcomes and impact

Minimum Qualifications  

• 3 to 5 years of experience in communications, public relations, marketing, or journalism disciplines
• Excellent initiative, follow-through, and project management skills
• Strong writing, editing, and verbal communications skills, including communicating at different levels of depth (more in-depth for industry audiences; simplified for lay audiences)
• Passion for storytelling and messaging around complex issues
• Experience strategizing and managing digital campaigns, social media channels, and/or email marketing
• Experience working with reporters is a plus
• Experience working on energy/environmental/decarbonization policy is a plus
• Experience with international/global work, especially in China, India and the global south, is a plus  

Additional Qualifications:  

• Meticulous attention to detail
• A strong team player with excellent interpersonal / collaborative skills with staff and counterparts at all organizational levels and with external partners
• Passion for RMI’s mission and theory of change
• High intellectual curiosity
• Ability to multitask and prioritize

Location  

We are a remote-ready company with team members around the globe. Our beautiful and welcoming offices are available for meetings or focused work, whether you are traveling through or living nearby. Our U.S. offices are in New York City; Washington DC; Oakland, California; Boulder, Colorado, and Basalt, Colorado. This role can be located from anywhere in the continental United States. 

We provide you with the essential IT equipment plus a one-time home technology payment and a monthly work from home/commuter allowance to ensure you have a comfortable home office set up and necessary supplies. 

We love seeing each other in person! We occasionally gather for shared time together like retreats and learning experiences. Be ready to travel for occasional in-person meetings (and of course, we cover travel costs). Some roles may require more travel, which will be discussed during the hiring process. 

Important Note: As a U.S. federal contractor, RMI must comply with requirements outlined in Executive Order Ensuring Adequate COVID Safety Protocols for Federal Contractors. This Executive Order requires that all federal contractors and subcontractors mandate and verify that all U.S. based employees are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. If you are based in the U.S., you will be required to provide proof of full vaccination status as a condition of employment. You may request accommodation for medical or religious reasons. If you are based outside of the U.S., this requirement does not apply. 

Compensation

RMI compensates based on the level and requirements of the role. Salary within our ranges may also be determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as required by the role, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data. Typically, new Program Communications Leads based in the U.S. join at the minimum to mid-salary range of $63,000 - $74,000. You would also have an additional 5% bonus target! 

Benefits     

We offer a comprehensive benefits package adjusted to regional norms, including (for U.S. employment): 

·Medical, dental, vision insurance

· 403b retirement options (up to 5% match immediately)

· Life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability

· Professional and personal development (including LinkedIn Learning access)

· Generous paid time off

· Parental leave

· Work from home and commuter allowance

Diversity  

Increasing the diversity of thought, perspectives, ideas and opinions within RMI is a critical change element supporting our long-term sustainability and mission to build a clean, prosperous, and secure energy future.  

We strive for a level of diversity that reflects the communities we serve. Achieving this—regardless of ability, race, ethnicity, ancestry, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, socioeconomic class, educational attainment or other social identities—is critical to the success of each RMIer and collectively as an organization, ensuring that we:  

• Have the different array of thinking that comes from diverse backgrounds and cultures, enabling us to solve some of the world’s greatest challenges.  
• Strive for a culture of inclusion and belonging by treating others with dignity, respect and appreciation enabling them to feel welcomed, supported and valued.  
• Effectively connect, communicate and build long-lasting relationships with decision makers, stakeholders and constituents within diverse communities.  

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.  

About RMI  

RMI is an independent nonprofit founded in 1982 that transforms global energy systems through market-driven solutions to align with a 1.5°C future and secure a clean, prosperous, zero-carbon future for all. We work in the world’s most critical geographies and engage businesses, policymakers, communities, and NGOs to identify and scale energy system interventions that will cut greenhouse gas emissions at least 50 percent by 2030. RMI has offices in Basalt and Boulder, Colorado; New York City; Oakland, California; Washington, D.C.; and Beijing. RMI-India, a sister organization, has an office in New Delhi.

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