Vice President, Government Relations and Corporate Communications

Utz Quality Foods is seeking an experienced corporate communications professional to join our legal team in either our Hanover, PA or Chicago, IL office. The Vice President Government Relations and Corporate Communications is responsible for shaping and executing the company's public policy strategy and corporate messaging to drive business objectives and enhance brand reputation. This role leads government affairs efforts, and in parallel oversees all aspects of corporate communications, ensuring consistent, strategic, and impactful messaging across internal and external channels.

The ideal candidate will possess a bachelor's degree and a minimum of 5 years of experience in a corporate communications or government relations role, ideally within the consumer-packaged good industry. A Juris Doctor (JD) and an active license to practice law is preferred. Candidates must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities. Strong interpersonal skills are essential.

Vice President, Government Relations and Corporate Communications:

• Work with internal Utz departments and the executive leadership team to develop, manage, review, and/or and coordinate delivery of key messages and materials to important internal and external stakeholder audiences exclusive of marketing & sales communications.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive communication strategy that aligns with the company's mission, vision, and goals.
• Proactively manage the company's reputation, ensuring alignment between public perception and corporate values.
• In coordination with Investor Relations, General Counsel & Chief People Officer serve as the company's primary spokesperson and media liaison, building relationships with journalists and handling press releases, interviews, and media inquiries.
• Assist in review and development of consistent messaging in external reports issued by Utz (i.e. Annual Report, ESG Report, etc.).
• Manage and execute government and community outreach strategy, ensuring partnerships that align to business needs and objectives.
• Monitor legislative developments affecting the CPG industry, advising leadership on potential impacts and opportunities.
• Work with lobbyists and internal stakeholders to shape our priorities and messaging for legislative and regulatory policy conversations.
• Work to enhance Utz access to government grant monies and resources across the enterprise.
• Assist in crisis management communications planning.
• Coordinate Utz participation in various industry associations, and represent Utz as needed at external stakeholder and association meetings, events and ceremonies.
• Manage review of Utz annual charitable contributions per Utz policy.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited university required
• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school preferred but not required.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a corporate communications or government affairs role, ideally with experience in the food or consumer packaged goods space
• Strong writing and communication skills
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and research skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
• Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well with various stakeholders.
• Familiarity with industry-specific regulations and standards.

Continuously Pursuing Excellence!

Here at Utz, we have a passion for exciting and delighting consumers with delicious snack foods made from high quality ingredients. After over a century with a strong family heritage, our diverse portfolio of brands includes Utz, Zapp's, Boulder Canyon, and On the Border. Our associates are the reason for the success of this company, so it is important we provide a supportive, caring and inclusive environment that offers opportunities for career growth and advancement. We also help take care of our associates by providing benefits, resources, and programs that ensure they live their healthiest lives. Our full-time benefit package includes medical, dental, and vision plans, an employer match 401k, profit sharing plan, employee stock purchase plan and much more. Join our world class team and help us become the fastest growing pure-play U.S. snacking company of scale!

Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.