Corporate Relations Manager

Summary The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is the premier nonprofit association serving the volunteer fire, emergency, and rescue services for 50 years. Today, the NVFC serves as the voice of over one million volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel in Congress and the Executive Branch, including the White House, and provides valuable training, programs, and other resources. Role Overview The NVFC is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Corporate Relations Manager to lead and grow the organization’s corporate sponsorship, membership, and partnership efforts. This position plays a critical role in advancing NVFC’s mission by securing sustainable funding and building long‑term, high‑impact relationships with corporate partners nationwide. This role manages a substantial portfolio of corporate sponsors and partners, leading relationship cultivation, prospect development, proposal creation, and impact reporting. The position requires regular engagement with corporate stakeholders, both virtually and in person, and serves as a key representative of NVFC at conferences, trade shows, and industry events. Working closely with the CEO and senior leadership, the Corporate Relations Manager collaborates across teams to maximize engagement, strengthen partnerships, and expand NVFC’s reach and impact. The ideal candidate is strategic, relationship‑driven, and highly organized, with strong communication skills and a proven track record in fundraising or corporate partnerships. Key Responsibilities Corporate Partnerships & Fundraising Strategy Lead corporate fundraising and partnership efforts, including setting revenue targets and managing a robust pipeline of sponsors and partners Cultivate, secure, and steward corporate sponsors, including renewing existing partnerships and developing new, long‑term relationships Develop and deliver compelling proposals and presentations to secure funding for NVFC programs, events, and initiatives Identify and pursue new sponsorship opportunities and revenue streams to expand NVFC’s corporate engagement Relationship Management & Stewardship Build and maintain strong relationships with corporate partners through regular communication, meetings, and strategic engagement Engage corporate leaders and key stakeholders to strengthen long‑term partnerships and alignment with NVFC’s mission Collaborate with leadership and board members to deepen high‑value relationships and enhance partner engagement Partner with communications staff to develop recognition and stewardship strategies that highlight partner impact Events & Sponsorship Activation Manage corporate sponsorships for NVFC events, including securing support, fulfilling benefits, and evaluating outcomes Represent NVFC at conferences, meetings, and trade shows to expand the organization’s network and visibility Collaborate with internal teams to ensure seamless delivery of sponsor benefits and successful execution of partnership agreements Data, Reporting & Compliance Track partnership activity, revenue, and pipeline data to ensure accurate forecasting and reporting Provide regular updates to leadership on progress toward goals, challenges, and opportunities Coordinate with finance and membership teams to ensure accurate invoicing, payments, and reconciliation Prepare reports demonstrating the impact and value of corporate partnerships Collaboration & Program Support Work cross‑functionally with program, communications, and leadership teams to align partnerships with organizational priorities Support development of annual and multi‑year corporate relations strategies Assist with other organizational initiatives and projects as needed Qualifications and Competencies Proven success in corporate fundraising, sponsorship development, or partnership management Strong relationship‑building skills with the ability to engage and influence diverse stakeholders Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present persuasively and professionally Strategic thinker with strong business and marketing acumen Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines Self‑starter who thrives in a remote, team‑oriented environment Strong customer service mindset and responsiveness Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) Ability to analyze data and translate insights into actionable strategies Knowledge of the fire and emergency services sector preferred Energetic, professional, and adaptable with a commitment to continuous improvement Ability to travel approximately 3–6 times per year Education and Experience Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field required; 5+ years of relevant experience in corporate relations, fundraising, or partnership development; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Previous experience with association membership, nonprofit organizations, and NGOs. Volunteer fire service experience or knowledge of the volunteer fire service is preferred. Benefits The NVFC offers competitive pay, an excellent benefits package, a collaborative work environment, work/life balance, and opportunities for growth and advancement. #J-18808-Ljbffr KENTUCKY SOCIETY OF ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVES INC