Help shape the voice of a trusted, member-owned electric cooperative.

Southwestern Electric Cooperative is seeking a Vice President of Communications to lead, elevate, and unify how we tell our story - internally, externally, and everywhere in between. This is a senior leadership role for a strategic thinker, skilled storyteller, and calm, confident communicator who can translate complex issues into clear, meaningful messages that build trust with members, employees, media, and the communities we serve.

As Vice President of Communications, you will:

• Lead and execute Southwestern Electric's communications strategy, ensuring clear, consistent, and mission-driven messaging across all internal and external channels.
• Serve as the cooperative's primary spokesperson and communications advisor, overseeing media relations, crisis and emergency communications, and proactive storytelling.
• Oversee the communications team, content, and resources, including publications, digital platforms, campaigns, and budgets, to deliver high-quality, member-focused communications.

Qualifications & Skills

• Exceptional written, verbal, and visual communication skills with strong editing and storytelling abilities.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to turn organizational objectives into actionable communication plans.
• Deep knowledge of marketing, branding, and public relations best practices.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, journalism, or a related field.
• Six to ten years of progressive experience in communications, marketing, journalism, or related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience leading creative professionals and working closely with executive leadership.

How to Apply

To be considered, applicants must submit the following:

1. A resume outlining relevant experience and leadership background.
2. Three samples of your work that highlight your experience and strengths related to this position (e.g., writing, campaigns, publications, digital or multimedia content).
3. A short essay (approximately 500-750 words) addressing: What you believe Southwestern Electric Cooperative-or the electric utility industry as a whole-may face in the next 5-10 years, and how strategic communications can support member trust, engagement, and understanding during that time.

The Cooperative Difference

We are built and led by the members we serve. Our members have a voice in how the cooperative is run, and we make sustainable investments in the community we share. Working for Southwestern Electric means serving your neighbors, family and friends. We all play an important role in keeping the lights on.

Competitive compensation is just one aspect of our generous benefits package. At Southwestern Electric, we're invested in setting you up for success:

Financial

• 401k plan with 5% employer contribution
• Pension plan for retirement

Health and Wellbeing

• Employer-paid health, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Lump-sum contribution to employee HSA account each year
• 125 Plan Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program

Paid Leave

• Holidays
• Vacation
• Personal Time

Professional Development

• Educational assistance
• Training and career development opportunities

At Southwestern Electric Cooperative, we offer more than just a job - we offer a fulfilling career where you can make a real impact. Join us in powering communities, driving innovation, and shaping the future of energy.

About Southwestern Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Formed in 1939 with a loan from the Rural Electrification Administration (REA), Southwestern Electric Cooperative, Inc. (SWECI) is a not-for-profit, member-owned cooperative located in Southwestern Illinois. Southwestern Electric Cooperative serves nearly 23,000 residential, commercial, agricultural and industrial member accounts in parts of Bond, Clay, Clinton, Fayette, Effingham, Macoupin, Madison, Marion, Montgomery, Shelby and St. Clair Counties. Headquartered in Greenville, Illinois, the co-op maintains nearly 3,500 miles of power line, employs more than 80 people, and owns a 47-megawatt peaking plant.

Connections working at Southwestern Electric Cooperative, Inc.