What's Happening?
Georgia-Pacific is actively recruiting a Public Affairs Manager for its Naheola operation, a pulp and paper mill located in Pennington, Alabama. This role is a key part of the mill's leadership team, providing professional guidance on critical communications
and public affairs issues. The manager will dedicate approximately 70% of their time to internal communications and employee engagement, 20% to public affairs including community relations and local government interaction, and 10% to proactive and reactive media relations. Responsibilities include developing and implementing strategic employee communications, establishing strong relationships with community members and local officials, advising on issues affecting mill operations, and maintaining a crisis communications plan. The Naheola mill is a significant employer in the community, producing well-known consumer brands like Angel Soft® and Sparkle® bath tissue and paper towels, as well as bleached paperboard for Dixie® plates and cups.
Why It's Important?
This position highlights the critical role of effective communication and community engagement for large industrial operations in the U.S., particularly in smaller communities where they are major employers. The Public Affairs Manager will be instrumental in shaping Georgia-Pacific's public image and maintaining positive relationships with employees, local government, and the broader community in Pennington, Alabama. This is crucial for operational stability, managing potential crises, and ensuring the company's social license to operate. The focus on internal communications and employee engagement underscores the importance of a well-informed and motivated workforce, which directly impacts productivity and retention. Furthermore, the role's involvement in local government interaction and media relations is vital for navigating regulatory landscapes and public perception, which can significantly influence business outcomes and long-term sustainability.
What's Next?
Georgia-Pacific will proceed with the recruitment and selection process for the Public Affairs Manager position at its Pennington, Alabama mill. Once hired, the individual will be tasked with immediately engaging with internal teams, local community leaders, and media outlets to establish and strengthen relationships. Key initial tasks will include assessing current communication strategies, developing new programs for employee engagement, and refining the mill's crisis communication plan. The manager will also work to align community investment and volunteer opportunities with Georgia-Pacific's focus areas of education, environment, entrepreneurship, and community enrichment. This strategic hire is expected to enhance the mill's operational environment by fostering greater transparency, trust, and collaboration with all stakeholders.
Beyond the Headlines
The creation of such a comprehensive public affairs role reflects a growing recognition among large corporations of the interconnectedness between business operations, community well-being, and public perception. In an era of increased scrutiny on corporate social responsibility, managing external and internal narratives is paramount. This position goes beyond mere public relations, encompassing strategic community development and governmental liaison, which can mitigate risks and create shared value. The emphasis on employee engagement also speaks to the evolving understanding of human capital as a critical asset, where internal communication can drive morale, productivity, and a sense of shared purpose. The role's focus on crisis communication planning underscores the proactive measures companies are taking to protect their reputation and ensure business continuity in an unpredictable environment.
