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External Affairs Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Alfa Laval

Public Affairs Manager

Richmond, VA · On-site

$108K - $120K/yr

About the job The Public Affairs Manager is responsible for organizing and driving Alfa Laval's external engagement and outreach agenda across areas where we choose to participate, including Food ...

Alfa Laval

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Richmond, VA · On-site

$108K - $120K/yr

About the job The Public Affairs Manager is responsible for organizing and driving Alfa Laval's external engagement and outreach agenda across areas where we choose to participate, including Food ...

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External Affairs Manager information

See Virginia salary details

$25.3K

$95.6K

$156.6K

How much do external affairs manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for external affairs manager in Virginia is $95,555.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,400.00 and $117,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an external affairs manager do?

An External Affairs Manager is responsible for managing an organization's relationships with external stakeholders, such as government agencies, community groups, regulatory bodies, and the media. Their main tasks include developing strategies for advocacy, representing the company in public forums, monitoring policy developments, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. They play a key role in shaping public perception, influencing policy decisions, and supporting the organization's business goals through effective communication and engagement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an external affairs manager?

To thrive as an External Affairs Manager, you need expertise in stakeholder engagement, public relations, and policy analysis, often supported by a degree in communications, public affairs, or a related field. Familiarity with CRM systems, media monitoring tools, and regulatory databases is commonly required. Exceptional interpersonal communication, negotiation, and crisis management skills help professionals build relationships and represent their organization effectively. These abilities are crucial for advancing organizational objectives, managing reputational risks, and influencing external stakeholders.

How does an external affairs manager typically collaborate with internal departments to achieve organizational goals?

An External Affairs Manager regularly works cross-functionally, partnering with departments such as communications, legal, government relations, and operations to ensure consistent messaging and effective advocacy strategies. They coordinate joint initiatives, share insights on stakeholder priorities, and help align public affairs activities with broader organizational objectives. This collaboration often involves regular meetings, joint planning sessions, and ongoing updates to ensure all teams are informed and engaged. Building strong internal relationships is crucial for anticipating challenges and leveraging diverse expertise.

What is the difference between External Affairs Manager vs Public Relations Specialist?

AspectExternal Affairs ManagerPublic Relations Specialist
CredentialsBachelor's degree in communications, public relations, or related field; often requires experience in government or corporate communicationBachelor's degree in communications, journalism, or related field; certifications like APR can be beneficial
Work EnvironmentCorporate or government settings, managing external relationships and policy communicationPR agencies or corporate PR departments, focusing on media relations and brand image
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in corporations, government agencies, and non-profits for strategic external communicationCommon in PR firms and corporate marketing teams for media and public image management

While both roles involve external communication, the External Affairs Manager focuses on strategic relationships, policy, and stakeholder engagement, often in a broader organizational context. The Public Relations Specialist primarily manages media relations and brand image. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of External Affairs jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of External Affairs jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to External Affairs Manager jobs in Virginia?

For External Affairs Manager jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching External Affairs Manager jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for External Affairs Manager jobs in Virginia are:

External Affairs Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various External Affairs Manager job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,555 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

Public Affairs Manager

Richmond, VA • On-site

Alfa Laval
Machinery Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Alfa Lavalexternal

$108K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 hours ago

Job description

Every day, we get opportunities to make a positive impact - on our colleagues, partners, customers and society. Together, we're pioneering the solutions of the future and unlocking the full potential of precious resources. Trusted to act on initiative, we challenge conventional thinking to develop world-leading technologies that inspire progress in vital areas, including energy, food, water and shipping.
As we push forward, the innovative, open spirit that fuels our 140-year-old start-up culture and rapid growth also drives our personal growth. So, as we shape a more resourceful, less wasteful world, we build our careers too.
About the job
The Public Affairs Manager is responsible for organizing and driving Alfa Laval's external engagement and outreach agenda across areas where we choose to participate, including Food & Pharma, Energy, Ocean, and Service. In this role, you will help shape and elevate Alfa Laval's public profile by engaging with key stakeholders across industry associations, national organizations, community partners and industry advocacy groups to strengthen Alfa Laval's presence in key conversations and forums and enhance the company's visibility, credibility and influence in priority markets.
Reporting to the Head of Marketing- North America, the Public Affairs Manager plays a key part in elevating Alfa Laval's reputation, expanding access to strategic forums, and positioning the company as a trusted industry contributor.
This is a hybrid opportunity located in Richmond, VA.
As a part of the team, you will:
  • Monitor legislative and regulatory developments to create timely analysis, recommendations and prioritization
  • Build and maintain relationships with trade associations, interest groups, economic development professionals and regulatory bodies to advocate for Alfa Laval's interests
  • Facilitate Alfa Laval's participation in industry forums, coalitions, and working groups, ensuring the company is represented in key discussions through appropriate channels
  • Engage with national and regional industry groups/trade associations around economic and workforce development, sustainability, industry development and best practices
  • Partner with external groups to support industry initiatives, thought leadership efforts, and collaborative campaigns, ensuring alignment with business objectives and policy priorities
  • Collaborate and influence stakeholders across divisions and executive functions to drive alignment, prioritization, and acceleration in critical agenda areas
  • Identify opportunities for partnerships, storytelling, and external engagement that enhance Alfa Laval's brand and influence
  • Initiate and lead collaboration with other excellence areas to ensure consistent positioning and messaging

At Alfa Laval, we pride ourselves on creating an inclusive and dynamic workplace that values diverse perspectives and experiences. While we typically welcome applicants from all locations, currently, we are prioritizing candidates who reside in the US or have an established presence in the area.
What you know:
You have a Bachelor's degree in Public Affairs, Political Science, Public Relations, Journalism, Communication or a related field and;
  • Minimum 5 years of professional working experience in public relations, external affairs, corporate communications or related experience
  • Demonstrated experience of building relationships with industry groups, economic development and community organizations
  • Experience shaping and supporting advocacy agendas, campaigns, coalition efforts, or third-party engagement initiatives as an SME
  • Experience in monitoring legislation and industry developments, building summaries and reports to communicate insights
  • Skilled in organizing and executing events, speaking opportunities, and external-facing initiatives
  • Strong leader with the ability to develop strategy, coordinate tasks, and influence members of the organization to complete strategic plans
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with ability to develop clear, persuasive messaging for diverse audiences
  • High level of strategic thinking, with ability to manage multiple priorities concurrently
  • Creative, forward-thinking self-starter with attention to detail
  • Highly organized with excellent time management skills

What's in it for you?
Alfa Laval offers a competitive salary and full benefits package, including medical/dental/vision/life, 401(k) plan, and more. At Alfa Laval, we carefully consider a wide range of compensation factors to determine your total compensation package. We rely on market indicators to determine compensation and consider your specific job family, background, skills, and experience to get it right. These considerations can cause your compensation to vary and will also be dependent on your location. The base salary for this role is typically $108,000 - $120,000 annually.
Alfa Laval is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, or business need, without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
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EEO/Vet/Disabled Employer

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