External Affairs Lead, Bauxite

Rowan Digital Infrastructure is assembling a strategic portfolio of data center sites in Tier 1 markets across the United States, seeking an External Affairs Lead, Bauxite to help lead government and community engagement, economic development, and public policy for Rowan’s Bauxite data center campus.

This role is critical to the team working with project leadership and subject matter experts across the business, including close collaboration with Rowan’s construction team, to strengthen Rowan’s portfolio in this region.

The ideal candidate will ensure the government and community landscape is favorable to Rowan’s operations in Frederick, MD. The External Affairs Lead will also track legislation and local policy changes that may impact Rowan’s operations, acting as the company’s representative in the community.

The role requires a proven track record of successfully working in government and community affairs, public policy, or economic development settings. Key skills include strategic thinking, negotiation, organizational and communication abilities, multitasking, comfort with ambiguity, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Engage with government representatives, community organizations, residents, and other local stakeholders about Rowan's projects.
• Track local legislation, regulatory proceedings, and project entitlements, advocating on these items as necessary.
• Form coalitions with interested individuals and organizations to support or oppose legislation, local policy issues, and community initiatives.
• Support drafting and managing the execution of strategic plans for political and community engagement.
• Represent Rowan at various public events, effectively communicating the benefits of Rowan project investments to external stakeholders, including AHJs, economic development partners, elected officials, and the community.
• Support drafting communications content to amplify messaging about Rowan’s community, economic, and environmental benefits in public settings, including project pitches, AHJ presentations, and customer meetings.
• Identify and track pertinent legislation and local policy proposals that may impact Rowan’s operations.

Education, Skills, and Experience:

• A Bachelor’s degree in a related field and 5+ years of public policy and/or community engagement experience within government, nonprofits, economic development organizations, public interest groups, business, campaigns, or industry associations.
• Skilled at persuasively and diplomatically advocating policy positions publicly before key stakeholders.
• Demonstrated track record of success in developing strong partnerships with AHJs, economic development organizations, state and local government, and other key stakeholders.
• Experience communicating with senior leaders and executives.
• Experience drafting strategic communications and supporting public relations.
• Knowledge of policies impacting the data center industry preferred.
• Experience with legislative tracking for targeted industries preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and highly cross-functional environment.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.