American Electric Power

Director Government Affairs

American Electric Power$160K — $208K *
Energy & Utilities
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in public policy, public relations, communications, business, law, or related field.
  • Minimum 8 years' experience in government or corporate affairs, or minimum 6 years' experience with Congress or the federal government.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
  • Strong understanding of the federal legislative and executive branch processes.
  • Experience in the energy and utility sectors, with knowledge of related issues.
  • Demonstrated ability to build strategic relationships.
  • Master's degree preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Represent AEP before federal agencies and Administration officials on relevant legislative and regulatory matters.
  • Develop and execute advocacy strategies for AEP's federal priorities.
  • Conduct outreach to executive branch officials and stakeholders to promote AEP's positions.
  • Coordinate meetings between AEP executives and federal policymakers.
  • Manage relationships with trade associations and other external partners.
  • Monitor federal regulatory developments and analyze impacts on AEP.
  • Prepare briefing materials and advocacy documents.

Benefits

  • Annual bonus and long-term incentive opportunities.
  • 401K match and AEP Pension plans.
  • Comprehensive benefits package for overall employee well-being.
  • On-site position in the AEP Washington, DC office.
Full Job Description
Job Posting End Date
09-21-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

Provides strategic direction and leads change initiatives related to government policy and legislative affairs. Plans, organizes, and directs team activities[to support the Company's legislative and government relations objectives. Consults with and advises Company staff on matters affecting government regulations.

The Director, Government Affairs, will serve as a key representative of American Electric Power (AEP) before federal agencies and the Administration. This externally focused role requires significant in-person engagement, including accompanying business executives to meetings with administrative agencies. The Director will help develop and execute federal advocacy strategies that advance AEP's business objectives and support affordable, reliable power for our customers.

Working closely with internal business leaders and external stakeholders, the Director will build and maintain relationships with Administration officials, federal agencies, industry partners, and trade associations. The Director will monitor federal regulatory developments, provide strategic counsel to Company leadership, and advocate on issues affecting AEP's operations, customers, and long-term growth.

Job Description

What You'll Do:
  • Represent AEP before federal agencies and Administration officials on legislative, regulatory, and policy matters impacting the company.
  • Develop and execute advocacy strategies to advance AEP's federal priorities.
  • Conduct direct outreach to executive branch officials and key stakeholders to promote company positions.
  • Support and coordinate meetings between AEP executives and federal policymakers.
  • Develop and manage relationships with trade associations, coalitions, consultants, and other external partners.
  • Identify opportunities to enhance AEP's visibility and influence among federal decision-makers.
  • Support AEP's participation in industry events, conferences, and stakeholder meetings.
  • Monitor Administration initiatives, federal agency actions, and rulemakings. Analyze and communicate any potential business impacts of federal actions to internal stakeholders.
  • Prepare executive briefings, meeting materials, talking points, legislative summaries, and advocacy documents.
  • Maintain awareness of emerging federal political and policy developments that may affect the company.
  • Demonstrate the highest standards of ethics, compliance, and professionalism in all activities.
  • Maintain compliance with applicable lobbying, ethics, and reporting requirements.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.


What We're Looking For:

Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in public policy, public relations, communications, business, law, or other related disciplines.


Experience:
  • Minimum 8 years' experience in government, corporate government affairs office, community/public affairs, communications, or direct related experience in the industry. Or a minimum 6 years' experience with Congress or in the federal government.


Other Must Haves:
  • Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
  • Strong understanding of the federal legislative and executive branch decision-making processes.
  • Experience within the energy and utility industry sectors and familiarity with energy, environmental, permitting, and infrastructure issues.
  • Must have demonstrated building strategic relationships with appropriate contacts to support AEP's policies.
  • Master's degree preferred.


Where You'll Work:
  • On-Site in the AEP Washington, DC office.


What You'll Get:
  • Base salary
  • Annual bonus
  • Long-term incentive
  • 401K match
  • AEP Pension
  • Comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.


Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-011

Compensation Range:

$160,434.00 - $208,565.50

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

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About American Electric Power

American Electric Power generates, transmits, and distributes electricity, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers nationwide. AEP serves millions of customers across 11 states. It operates in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity, providing power to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. AEP generates electricity using diverse sources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear, and renewable energy like wind and solar. The company maintains a vast transmission network that delivers electricity from power plants to local distribution systems, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply. AEP is actively involved in renewable energy initiatives, investing in wind farms and solar facilities to diversify its energy portfolio and reduce its environmental impact. Additionally, the company engages in community outreach, supporting education, environmental conservation, and various social initiatives.

American Electric Power Careers

Join the dynamic team at American Electric Power (AEP), one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, and ignite your career with a company known for its commitment to innovation and leadership in the energy sector.

Opportunities Await

At AEP, we offer a multitude of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and professional interests. Whether you're seeking an entry-level position or a more senior role, our diverse range of employment options ensures that there's a place for every ambitious individual in our team.

Grow and Innovate

Embark on a journey of growth and professional development with AEP. Our company is at the forefront of the energy industry’s transformation, integrating sustainable and innovative practices that not only lead the market but also contribute to a greener planet. Engage in work that challenges the status quo, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the energy sector.

Culture and Benefits

AEP is dedicated to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion, where every team member’s contribution is valued. We offer competitive benefits that support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees and their families. From comprehensive health benefits to professional development programs and diversity training, AEP ensures that our team is equipped for both personal and professional success.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with an AEP internship. Our programs provide invaluable industry experience and networking opportunities that pave the way for future employment. Interns at AEP work on real projects, learn from seasoned professionals, and gain the hands-on experience necessary to succeed in the fast-paced world of energy.

Leadership and Development

Leadership at AEP means more than guiding teams – it involves inspiring change and driving innovation. With leadership development programs, employees are prepared to take on challenging roles that shape the future of the company and the industry. Our focus on leadership and continuous improvement creates an environment where ambitious professionals can thrive.

Join Our Team

Explore the career possibilities at American Electric Power today. Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are constantly hiring new talent and look for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Prepare your resume, ace the interview, and join a company where your career can flourish.

Stay Connected

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Explore American Electric Power Jobs

Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the industry, AEP offers a dynamic work environment where innovation, leadership, and growth are part of everyday life. Join us in powering a new and brighter future for everyone.
Learn more about American Electric Power
Size
16,688 employees
Market Cap
$48.8 billion
Industry
Net Income
$2.2 billion
Founded
1906
5 Year Trend
+0.5%
Revenue
$14.9 billion
NASDAQ

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