Assistant Director, Corporate Relations - Illinois Fire Service Institute

Assistant Director Corporate Relations - Fire Service Institute

Are you ready to support the mission of Illinois' premier fire training organization? The Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI) is seeking a dedicated corporate relations person to join our team. As the statutory fire academy for the State of Illinois, IFSI trains thousands of firefighters across the state and beyond—delivering hands-on education through a unique blend of campus, online, and regional training programs. Be a part of a team that makes a real difference in public safety, every single day. IFSI operates as a continuing education and public service unit of the University of Illinois, offering the stability, resources, and benefits of a world-class public university while maintaining a mission-driven focus on first responder training.

Position Summary

This Corporate Relations position will play a key role in securing corporate support for IFSI through donations, sponsorships, gifts-in-kind, and corporate partnerships. This position manages a portfolio of existing relationships while cultivating new corporate and fire service affiliates. The role includes developing and executing strategic fundraising initiatives, managing corporate partnerships, and supporting community engagement activities to advance IFSI's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities

Corporate Relations & Development

• Develop and implement cultivation and solicitation strategies for corporate prospects, including visits, presentations, and proposal submissions.
• Build and execute a long-term corporate relations strategy that increases revenue in support of IFSI's mission.
• Identify, research, and manage a portfolio of corporate donors and prospects.
• Strengthen relationships with corporate leaders, fire service affiliates, and industry partners to raise visibility and support for IFSI.
• Represent IFSI at corporate meetings, national fire service trade shows, and industry events.
• Collaborate with IFSI leadership, business, and communications teams to align fundraising strategies with organizational goals.
• Connect IFSI firefighting subject matter experts with corporate partners to facilitate in depth talks related to training, outreach, and industry needs.
• Develop budgets, monitor fundraising outcomes, and provide regular reports to leadership.
• Manage corporate affiliate programs.
• Maintain accurate donor and prospect records while handling sensitive information with discretion.

Community Engagement

• Support IFSI's participation in community and professional events to strengthen partnerships and visibility.
• Work closely with Strategic Communications and Marketing on outreach efforts.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

1. Bachelor's degree.
2. Minimum of 3 years of progressive experience in corporate fundraising, sponsorships, grants, or gifts-in-kind.
3. Experience with Microsoft Office and donor databases.
4. Strong communication, relationship-building, and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Fire service experience, with knowledge of equipment needs, usage, and industry manufacturers.
2. Knowledge of fire service mission, equipment, and industry affiliates.
3. Experience in firefighting and technical rescue training programs.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

1. Strong communication skills, with the ability to convey complex messages to diverse audiences.
2. Skilled in fundraising strategy, donor cultivation, and stewardship.
3. Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and work independently or in a team.
4. Strong analytical, creative, and problem-solving skills.
5. Ability to be self-motivating and discipline to regularly set and achieve work goals.
6. Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.
7. Ability to work positively, professionally, and have a collaborative attitude with excellent customer service.
8. Ability to work in an active training environment to facilitate partner relationships.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after June 15, 2026. The Salary Range for this position begins at $70,000 with limited flexibility above the minimum based on experience, qualifications, industry knowledge, and overall fit.