VP, Government and Community Relations

Therme Group US has partnered with Chaloner on their search for a VP of Government and Community Relations.

The Opportunity

Therme Group US seeks a VP of Government and Community Relations to join our team at an exciting moment in our company’s growth trajectory. Therme Group is a leading global company and integrator of health, sustainability, and recreation concepts that is revolutionizing the wellbeing industry. Guided by the principle of “wellbeing for all,” Therme’s facilities combine thermal bathing, sauna treatments, family-friendly water-based attractions, cultural programming, and botanical gardens to deliver a new, holistic model of urban recreation and rejuvenation – all at an accessible price designed to serve customers of all ages.

Therme US, which was incorporated in 2021, represents Therme Group’s entry into the U.S. marketplace and its mission will be to oversee planning and development of 3 to 5 new Therme facilities in premiere locations within major urban areas. These facilities will be between 400K to 600K square feet and will explore both ground-up development as well as adaptive reuse opportunities. These future Therme facilities will be vital pieces of social infrastructure for contemporary US cities, offering a large-scale, integrated, and preventative platform for promoting health and wellbeing and creating civic icons that will be major destinations within each market.

Therme Group and its affiliates operate five large-scale facilities in Germany and Romania, and since 1998 have served more than 40 million visitors. Building on this track record, Therme is currently expanding its international presence and has recently announced projects in Manchester, Toronto, Incheon, Dubai, Washington, DC, and Dallas – each of which is projected to serve between 1.5 and 3 million annual visitors.

Job Description

The VP of Government and Community Relations will oversee community engagement and government relations for Therme Group projects in the US. The VP will play a critical role in advancing Therme US’ strategic goals by building and maintaining strong relationships with community stakeholders, public and elected officials, and regulatory agencies. This position requires a dynamic leader with exceptional communication skills, a sensitivity to community and stakeholder engagement, and a proven track record of accomplishment in obtaining significant governmental approvals. The position will be based in New York City but require significant domestic travel.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The position duties and responsibilities listed below describe the general nature and scope of work. Other responsibilities, duties, and skills may be required and assigned, as needed.

Community Engagement

• Develop and implement comprehensive community engagement strategies to engage local residents, community groups, business leaders and other key stakeholders in the markets where Therme US has projects underway or is considering for future projects.
• Organize and participate in civic meetings and other relevant local events to gather input and provide information about planned Therme projects.
• Develop long-term partnerships to maximize the positive social impact of Therme’s projects.
• Manage local community relations staff and consultant teams (public relations, communications, community engagement, etc.) as necessary.

Government Relations

• Serve as a key liaison between Therme US and local, state, and federal officials, as appropriate for project delivery.
• Manage consultant teams (land use, legal, government relations, etc.) as necessary.
• Support the public approvals and entitlements process for Therme US projects.

Education and Experience

• 8+ years work experience in community outreach, government relations, legislative, public affairs, or a related field, preferably within the real estate industry. 5+ years work experience developing teams.
• Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with community leaders, government officials, and regulatory agencies. Experience leading complex land use and real estate projects through entitlements a plus.
• Track record of successful project management and coordination, budget management, ability to comfortably multi-task, and excellent written/verbal/visual communication skills.

Traits and Attributes

• Self-starter with a dedicated and professional demeanor capable of thriving in an all-hands-on-deck entrepreneurial environment.
• Enthusiasm for urban communities, wellness, and public health and an interest in wellness practices a plus.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Comfortable with regular domestic and international travel.

Salary and Benefits

Base salary $200,000–$300,000, commensurate with experience. Therme US has a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, long- and short-term disability insurance, life insurance, 401(k), paid leave, annual wellness stipend, and more. Based on performance, a meaningful bonus will also be paid annually as a percentage of salary.

Therme US is committed to attracting and retaining a talented, diverse, competitive team of professionals dedicated to promoting wellness within urban environments. Women, people of color, members of the LGBTQA+ community, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.

Therme US is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.

Interested candidates should apply by using the application form. Chaloner will review all applicants and, upon qualification, contact you to determine next steps.