External Affairs Manager

DGS Office of External Affairs; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Indiana Department of Transportation is seeking an External Affairs Manager to serve as a liaison between government affairs, public relations, and external stakeholders including elected officials, media, and community leaders. The role integrates government affairs, outreach to communicate policies and legislative developments, while maintaining relationships with constituents and partners.

Reports to the Deputy Chief of Staff at INDOT’s Central Office in Indianapolis.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of messaging and audience segmentation.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with ability to craft content.
• Proven experience advising clients to assess needs and provide strategic recommendations.
• Familiarity with digital marketing, social media, and emerging communication trends.
• Ability to collaborate in cross-functional teams with strong project management skills.
• At least 7+ years of experience in a similar role.

Responsibilities

• Educate and liaise between INDOT and external stakeholders including officials, media, and community leaders.
• Communicate agency policies, project impacts, and legislative developments.
• Maintain strong relationships with constituents and partners.

Skills

Communication strategy

Verbal & written

Client advisory

Digital marketing

Cross-functional teamwork

Project management

Job description

The External Affairs Manager serves as an assistant to the Indiana Department of Transportation's government affairs and public relations teams, acting as an educator and liaison between the agency and external stakeholders including elected officials, media, and community leaders. The role integrates government affairs, public relations, event planning, and strategic outreach to communicate agency policies, project impacts, and legislative developments while maintaining strong relationships with constituents and partners. The position reports directly to the Deputy Chief of Staff at INDOT's Central Office in Indianapolis.

Key qualifications:

• Strong understanding of communication strategies, messaging, and audience segmentation
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with ability to craft compelling content
• Proven experience working directly with clients to assess needs and provide strategic recommendations
• Familiarity with digital marketing, social media, and emerging communication trends
• Ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams with strong project management skills
• At least 7+ years of experience applying outlined knowledge, skills, and abilities in a similar role