NPR Illinois Sponsorship Account Executive (2 Positions)
Posting Category: E
About UIS: Located in the state capital, the University of Illinois Springfield is one of three members of the University of Illinois system. The University serves more than 4,000 students in 44 graduate and 56 undergraduate programs. You are encouraged to visit the university web page at http://www.uis.edu.
Application deadline: 2/28/2025
Minimum Starting Salary: $45,000 annualy + performance bonus

SUMMARY:

The Sponsorship Account Executive is responsible for securing funding from businesses, foundations, and individuals to support the public journalism of NPR Illinois and the Illinois Public Radio Network through sponsorships and acknowledgments in digital, broadcast, and print media. This position engages with area businesses for the purpose of securing sponsorship and advertisement revenue.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field
2. Minimum of three years sales experience

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Master’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field
2. One (1) year of previous public radio underwriting experience

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Ability to communicate persuasively to groups and individuals
Ability to organize, manage multiple assignments, and be self-directed in leading oneself, staff, and volunteers to actively solicit funds from businesses, nonprofits, foundations, and other prospects
Possess a valid driver’s license
Punctuality
Possess a developed writing style that results in effective acknowledgments (ads)
Experience in using social/digital media to secure revenue
Proficiency in computer skills, including word processing, spreadsheets, and proprietary account management software (WideOrbit/Blackbaud). Ability to work with a variety of Windows-based software programs to create presentations.
Ability to lift 25 pounds on occasion
Attention to detail
Ability to maintain confidentiality of donor files and information
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or government regulations
Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals
Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public
Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form
Knowledge of regional market including decision makers, events, and key accounts
Ability to operate broadcast equipment with an emphasis on digital audio production
Ability to apply basic concepts of algebra and work with spreadsheets and account for cash and trade according to GAP

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

70% This position will require several hours a day traveling the region and attending meetings. This position also requires daily time at the computer. Other demands include climbing stairs, negotiating prevailing weather conditions while traveling, and periods of standing.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Meet or exceed individual revenue goals on a monthly basis through selling broadcast avails.
• Meet or exceed individual revenue goals on a monthly basis through major sponsorships for events and special projects.
• Meet or exceed individual revenue goals on a monthly basis through selling digital avails.
• Research and identify business prospects to financially support Illinois public journalism through digital, broadcast, and print acknowledgments (ads) and secure meetings with them to cultivate commitments. Develop prospect “Needs” analysis and produce proposals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with current business supporters. Anticipate, meet and/or exceed donor needs, wants, and expectations - customer service. Develop stewardship techniques to ensure renewals and added commitments.
• Write effective copy for business gift acknowledgments that comply with NPR Illinois and FCC guidelines.
• Follow station policy regarding copy approvals, deadlines, receivables, and collections. Undergo University of Illinois Foundation and other training as needed. Represent NPR Illinois in a manner consistent with its standards and mission/values. Build and maintain positive working relationships with staff, departments, and volunteers.
• Perform other duties as assigned, including enthusiastically participating in other stations fundraising and engagement activities and adapt to new work situations, people, ideas, procedures, and organizational structures, in order to accommodate an evolving work environment.

UIS employment in this role is not covered by Social Security, and instead, is covered by the State University Retirement System.

• You will not pay Social Security taxes and your earning will not be on your Social Security Record. (Your record will, however, show your Medicare wages.
• Your pension from the State Universities Retirement System may affect the amount of your:
• Social Security benefit and
• Social Security benefit as a spous