Hybrid Government Relations Liaison bei Aspire of Illinois

Description

Are you a savvy relationship-builder that excels at engaging public officials and navigating government structures?  Do you want your powers to advance a mission that makes a real difference? Aspire is looking for a dynamic Government Affairs Liaison to be the driving force behind our engagement with government and legislative partners at every level—local to federal. In this high-impact role, you’ll champion our mission by connecting policymakers with the powerful stories of the individuals we serve and advocating for the resources and policies that uplift our team and community. From securing vital government funding through grants and earmarks to shaping legislative efforts that make a real difference, you’ll ensure Aspire’s voice is heard loud and clear in the conversations that matter most. If you're ready to turn passion into progress, we want to hear from you!

We are counting on you to:

• Build and manage strategic relationships with a portfolio of about 75-100 legislators, staff, and government officials across all markets.
• Identify and pursue public funding opportunities, including congressional earmarks or appropriations and federal/state grants , in partnership with the Director of Grants.
• Develop and execute Aspire’s legislative strategy in collaboration with senior leadership and consultants.
• Serve as Aspire’s lead representative with government officials -- coordinating and facilitating meetings, briefings, and events to drive ongoing engagement, including at least three annual advocacy visits to Springfield.
• Monitor, analyze, and influence public policy and legislation impacting Aspire’s mission and those served.
• Shape and communicate Aspire’s policy positions and public messaging on legislative issues.
• Organize and facilitate meetings, briefings, and events with government officials to drive ongoing engagement.
• Coordinate grassroots advocacy efforts to mobilize internal and external stakeholders in support of Aspire’s goals.
• Track and report on advocacy outcomes, engagement metrics, and strategic progress.
• Engage broader community stakeholders—including business leaders, families, and Board Members—to elevate Aspire’s visibility and mission.

Requirements

You are:

• A dynamic and engaging relationship-builder who can navigate the legislative offices and contacts at all levels
• An excellent communicator who loves story telling with the ability to articulate clear and compelling messages.
• A results-oriented project manager with exceptional organizational and time management skills. 
• Polished and professional, able to maintain grace and poise under pressure.
• Independent and excel in an entrepreneurial environment.
• A quality decision-maker who steps up to address difficult issues and says what needs to be said.
• Thrilled by the idea of asking Illinois congressperson for a million-dollar earmark.

Your background includes:

• A bachelor’s degree plus 5-8+ years of experience in government relations, advocacy, public policy, nonprofit leadership, or related field.
• A proven record of success in developing lasting relationships and engaging with legislative/government individuals or offices.
• Track record of securing government funding, including direct engagement in the appropriations process and grant acquisition.
• Experience and expertise with Virtuous CRM software, preferred.

If this sounds like you, we want you on our team. We are Aspire… and we are “Powered by Possibilities!”

Aspire Values (POWER):

P = We believe anything is possible

• Empower others to achieve their dreams
• Be open to new ideas 
• Offer solutions to solve problems

O = We all own it 

• Be a team player and lend a hand to others
• Speak up when you see or hear something that doesn’t seem right 
• Show pride and take care of Aspire

W = We welcome everyone 

• Greet everybody and be friendly
• Embrace diversity and celebrate belonging
• Treat others how you would like to be treated

E = We evolve and try new things 

• Help think of new ways to make Aspire better
• Seek feedback from others to improve
• Accept mistakes and learn from them. 

R = We build powerful relationships

• Show respect and build trust
• Be timely in responding to one another
• Take the time to get to know one another

Aspire has been named a Top 100 Inspiring Workplaces winner for 2025 in North America!

Aspire was founded in 1960 and is recognized as a leader in providing bold, pioneering, and uncompromising services to adults with developmental disabilities, their families, and the community. In 2019, we joined forces with Northpointe Resources to be one of the most recognized and respected disability service providers across the Chicago metropolitan area, Cook and Lake County (Illinois), and southeastern Wisconsin areas. 

Full Time:

• Health and Dental Insurance
• Paid Vision Insurance
• Paid Short and Long-Term Disability
• Paid Life Insurance 
• Vacation, Personal, Sick time available
• Sick Time - 1 Hour Earned for Every 40 Hours Worked (maximum accrual of 192 hours)
• 403(B) Retirement Savings Plan with matching contribution
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Total Pet Plan

Aspire’s priority is keeping our team members and participants healthy and safe. PPE is provided and regular cleaning and disinfecting regiments are followed to maintain a safe work and living environment. Hand sanitizer is available throughout our facilities.  Aspire is an equal employment opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Aspire is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities so that an applicant may complete the essential functions of a position. The essential functions of positions are outlined in a position’s job description. To request an accommodation or if you have a question regarding what the essential functions of a position are please contact the People Team at 708.632.5502.