VP Community Relations

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Date: Mar 24, 2026

Location: Houston, TX, US, 77002

Company: CenterPoint Energy

CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. 

 

Our Vision: Our vision is to become the most admired utility in the United States through the execution of our long-term growth strategy. We have an unwavering commitment to safely and reliably deliver electricity and natural gas to millions of people. 

 

Our Commitment: CenterPoint Energy is committed to creating an inclusive work environment where business results are achieved through the skills, abilities and talents of our diverse workforce.

At CenterPoint Energy, individuals are respected for their contributions toward our company objectives. We strive for an inclusive work environment across all levels that is reflective of the available workforce in the communities we serve. 

 

Job Summary

The Vice President of Community Relations and Executive Director of the Corporate Non-Profit Foundation combined role is an officer-level leadership position and an executive responsible for developing and overseeing the company's comprehensive community relations strategy and leading all aspects of the corporate non-profit's operations, financial reporting, signature programs, and grantmaking activities. The CenterPoint Energy Foundation strives to be a catalyst in our communities by leveraging everyday opportunities and resources to achieve extraordinary outcomes.
The successful individual will enhance the company’s brand and reputation across the states it serves as a socially responsible force in the community. This role ensures alignment between corporate objectives and the non-profit mission through strategic partnerships, innovative and impactful programs, and effective stakeholder engagement across diverse communities. The role involves significant internal and external leadership, reporting to c-suite level management, and working closely with the Board of Directors of the Foundation.

Essential Functions

Community Relations
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Strategy & Oversight: Develop and implement a refreshed community relations strategy for multiple states that supports local economic development and promotes the company's image and mission in the community, particularly around community vitality, STEM education and workforce development.
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Stakeholder Engagement: Identify, build, and maintain strategic relationships with key stakeholders in multiple states, including local government officials, business leaders, community groups, non-profits, and landowners.
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Outreach Programs: Create and manage outreach programs, conduct local events (e.g., open houses, informational sessions), and volunteer opportunities that address local issues and deliver measurable results and positive impact.
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Reputation Management: Proactively identify potential community concerns and develop strategies to mitigate risks, managing external public relations firms to ensure consistent and positive messaging. Understanding of the need of a 24-7-365
energy company that serves nearly 7 million metered customers across multiple states and be available for emergency response and special circumstances, as applicable.
Corporate Non-Profit Foundation
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Financial & Operations: Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Foundation, including financial controls, financial reporting, administrative policies, and Board engagement.
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Strategic Planning & Governance: Implement the refreshed strategic direction outlined by the Board of Directors, ensuring all activities align with the Foundation's updated mission applicable and financial and legal standards. Have a deep understanding of non-profit tax requirements.
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Grantmaking & Fundraising: Direct all grantmaking activities (proposals, reviews, reporting) and develop fundraising strategies to support the Foundation's programs.
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Create Signature Programs: Leverage the company’s Foundation to focus more on signature programs vs hundreds of grants.
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External Representation: Serve as the primary spokesperson for the Foundation to the public, media, and donors, cultivating relationships and enhancing the organization's visibility.

Education Description

Education: A bachelor's degree in Business, Public Policy, Political Science, Communications, or a related field.

Experience

Required
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Experience: 10+ years of managerial and leadership experience with a proven track record of community engagement, investment, and impact, ideally within the energy or infrastructure sectors.
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Education: A bachelor's degree in Business, Public Policy, Political Science, Communications, or a related field.

Physical Requirements

    Working Conditions

       

      We want you to know
      Being a part of the CenterPoint Energy team is more than a career alone. It's an opportunity to make a positive impact. You will be an integral part of enabling everyday life and the pursuit of possibilities for the customers we serve and the communities we share. The vital services we provide are at the core of making our world work, and by sharing your energy with us, we'll create a better tomorrow together. 
       

      What we bring to you

      • Competitive pay
      • Paid training
      • Benefits eligibility begins on your first day
      • Transit subsidies
      • Flexible work schedule, paid holidays and paid time off
      • Access to discounts at fitness clubs and an on-site wellness center at our headquarters in Houston
      • Professional growth and development programs including tuition reimbursement
      • 401(k) Savings Plan featuring a company match dollar-for-dollar up to 6% and a company contribution of 3% regardless of your contribution

       

      Job Type: Executives 
      Posting Start Date: 03/24/2026​
      Posting End Date: 04/10/2026


      This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR §§ 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a), and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability.

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      Nearest Major Market: Houston