JOB TITLE: VP, External Affairs

REPORTS TO: CEO

CLASSIFICATION: Exempt

LOCATION: Hybrid - Atlanta

SALARY: Based on Experience

Position Summary

Planned Parenthood Southeast (PPSE) is seeking a dynamic, strategic, and mission-driven Vice President of External Affairs to lead and integrate the organization’s advocacy, public policy, government relations, communications, and community engagement initiatives. Reporting to the President & CEO, the VP of External Affairs will be a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for shaping and executing external strategies that advance reproductive rights and health equity across Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced leader to drive change, build coalitions, and influence public discourse in a high-impact, high-visibility role.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

● Develop and execute an integrated external affairs strategy aligned with PPSE’s mission and strategic goals.

● Serve as a trusted advisor to the President & CEO and Board on matters of public policy, advocacy, and communications.

● Represent PPSE at high-level external meetings, coalitions, conferences, and in the media.

Advocacy & Government Relations

● Oversee state and local government relations strategies to protect and expand access to reproductive health care.

● Build and maintain strong relationships with elected officials, regulatory agencies, and community leaders.

● Track and analyze legislation and public policy trends impacting PPSE’s mission.

Communications & Brand Management

● In partnership with Communications Leader, develop and execute internal and external communications plans, including media relations, crisis communications, digital strategy, and branding.

● Serve as a spokesperson for the organization.

● Ensure consistent messaging that resonates with our audiences and stakeholders.

Community Engagement & Partnerships

● Strengthen and expand community partnerships and coalition-building efforts.

● Engage with grassroots organizations and allies to promote reproductive justice and health equity.

● Oversee programs designed to mobilize supporters and elevate community voices.

Team Leadership & Management

● Lead, mentor, and manage a multidisciplinary team including communications, advocacy, and engagement staff.

● Develop departmental goals, metrics, and budgets in alignment with organizational priorities.

● Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and equity.

Preferred Qualifications

● Minimum 10 years of progressively responsible experience in external affairs, public policy, advocacy, or related fields.

● Familiarity with the political landscapes of Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi.

● Commitment to Black Health Equity, and inclusion.

● Demonstrated success in government relations, media relations, and strategic communications.

● Proven track record of building coalitions and influencing public policy in politically complex environments.

● Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

● Deep understanding of reproductive health, rights, and justice issues, especially in the Southeast.

● Strong leadership, team-building, and management skills.

● Experience working in a nonprofit, advocacy, or healthcare environment.

● Bilingual proficiency (particularly Spanish) is a plus.

Additional Information:

The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position. Planned Parenthood Southeast maintains a drug-free workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to upholding a non-discriminatory environment and do not discriminate against any employee or job applicant based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Planned Parenthood Southeast is focused on fostering a dynamic work environment that values diversity and inclusion, respect and integrity, customer focus, and innovation. Background screens will be performed and education will be verified prior to employment. Please be prepared to provide the required information and/or documentation.

Benefits Available

We offer medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k) with employer match, paid time off, 13 paid holidays and one paid floating holiday, short- and long-term disability, voluntary AD&D coverage, voluntary accident coverage, voluntary life insurance, and voluntary disability insurance.