Assistant Director Corporate Relations - Fire Service Institute

Illinois 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.

Key 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 and facilitate product testing and evaluation, including in live fire environments.
• Mentor and support staff to ensure a positive, collaborative, and productive work environment.
• Maintain accurate donor and prospect records while handling sensitive information with discretion.
• Travel regularly throughout the state and country.

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:
Required

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.
5. Ability to work in an active training environment, working in potentially hazardous areas, including toxic gases, smoke, and inclement weather to facilitate partner relationships.

Preferred

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 written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex messages to diverse audiences.
2. Proven track record 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. Self-motivation and discipline to regularly set and achieve work goals.
6. Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.
7. Positive, professional, and collaborative attitude with excellent customer service focus.

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 January 5, 2026. Salary is commensurate with experience. The salary range is $70,000-95,000.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on December 5, 2025. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Keri Borchers, kerib@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

The University of Illinois offers a very competitive benefits portfolio, depending on the position. Click for a complete list of Employee Benefits.

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The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.

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Requisition ID: 1033602
Job Category: Professional and Administrative
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu