Senior Manager, State Affairs-Midwest Region

About this role

Company Profile The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is the national trade association for the solar and storage industry and represents more than 1,000 member companies and an industry workforce of more than 255,000 across the United States. SEIA is leading the transformation to a clean energy economy and is creating the framework for solar to reach 30% of U.S. electricity generation by 2030. We work with our member companies and strategic partners to advocate for policies that create jobs and shape fair market rules that promote competition and the growth of reliable, low-cost solar power. SEIA does this by supporting pro-solar policies at the state and federal level, developing cutting-edge market research, hosting educational events and webinars, and serving as the voice of the solar and storage industry. SEIA employees are passionate, forward-thinking leaders who start every day knowing that their work makes a difference. SEIA fosters an inclusive, lively company culture that values our employees’ varied backgrounds and experiences and celebrates team success. The Association has earned numerous awards for its work and company culture and was named The Washington Post as a Top Workplace in 2023 and 2024 and by the Nonprofit Times as one of the “Best Nonprofits to Work For” in America in April 2022

Position Summary The Sr. Manager, Midwest Regional is responsible for the development and implementation of SEIA’s policies and positions in the dynamic and growing solar markets in the Midwest.  The position reports to the Vice President of State Affairs and will work in close collaboration with other SEIA departments, including Research, Communications, and Membership. The ideal candidate should have the desire and demeanor to build a strong network within the solar and clean energy industries and will have had professional exposure to energy policy and/or markets, and be familiar with topics such as storage, demand response, virtual power plants, distribution management systems, and interconnection policies. The successful candidate must be able to build relationships and be a natural collaborator.  They should be able to manage project teams effectively and facilitate dialogue with both internal and external colleagues.

Core Duties and Responsibilities Candidates will have experience with the regulatory and legislative processes in the region, in the traditional or renewable energy sector. Oversees regulatory & legislative activity in SEIA priority states in the Midwest US, with a particular focus on Illinois, Michigan, and Minnesota. Manages the SEIA Midwest Region Committee and day-to-day activities in collaboration with company leads. This includes facilitating regular calls/meetings with SEIA members. Participates in legislative/lobbying initiatives. Works with outside counsel, contract lobbyists, and technical consultants as needed. Collaborates with other associations, SEIA state affiliates, other stakeholders and parties, consultants, etc. Participates as available/necessary in other states and overall SEIA activities as time permits.

Requirements Professional Experience, Education, and Other Qualifications A bachelor’s degree is required. Minimum 4 – 8 years’ experience with clean energy research, energy policy, utility program/policy development, or related fields Regulatory experience in Illinois, Michigan, or Minnesota is preferred, and legislative experience is a plus. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Ability to manage challenging and diverse views of members. Self-starter – can work independently and remotely. Ability to work effectively as part of a team and is able to perceive when to lead and when to build consensus.

Working Conditions Work is in an office environment or a remote-office environment suitably equipped with internet and telephone access. The successful candidate will preferably be located in the greater Chicago area. Consideration will be given to candidates based in Springfield, IL, or Lansing, MI. Travel will be necessary, primarily in-region, but additionally to Washington, DC, for SEIA meetings and events.

Compensation Range $85,000-$115,000 annually, based on experience, plus an excellent benefits package.

Working at SEIA SEIA welcomes different perspectives, identities, and backgrounds, working collaboratively in support of our mission, regardless of job function. We believe this creates a more resilient organization that supports a strong, equitable solar industry. SEIA envisions an industry that is committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect for all. SEIA provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, homelessness, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. SEIA complies with applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which we employ staff. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. SEIA is an EVerify employer.