The Illinois Bankers Association (IBA) seeks to fill an immediate opening for Director, Bank Relations. This position serves as a primary relationship manager for assigned member institutions and helps bank leaders maximize the value of their IBA membership. The ideal candidate will be a strong relationship builder with experience in banking, business development, membership engagement or association management.
Working closely with IBA leadership and teams across the Association, this individual will develop executive-level relationships, identify member needs, connect bankers with relevant IBA resources and strengthen membership retention and growth. The Director will serve as a trusted advisor, visible ambassador and strategic partner to member institutions throughout Northern Illinois.
Core responsibilities Include:
• Strengthening member relationships through consistent in-person outreach, bank visits and clear delivery of IBA value.
• Serving as the primary relationship manager for assigned member institutions and helping leaders connect with IBA advocacy, education, industry expertise and strategic solutions.
• Supporting member recruitment, retention and engagement efforts by communicating the value and impact of IBA membership.
• Identifying member challenges, opportunities and emerging needs and recommending appropriate IBA resources and solutions.
• Representing the IBA at bank meetings, industry events, conferences and other member functions.
• Maintaining knowledge of banking industry trends, challenges and legislative issues to anticipate member needs.
• Documenting member interactions in the Association CRM and providing regular reports on engagement, market intelligence and relationship outcomes.
• Contributing to annual membership, engagement, retention and revenue goals and supporting the Association strategic plan.
Education and/or Experience:
• Bachelor's degree in business, finance, communications, marketing, association management or a related field preferred.
• Three to five years of experience in relationship management, business development, banking, sales, membership engagement or association management.
• Experience working with executive-level decision-makers preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Strong consultative selling and business development capabilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build credibility with senior leaders and recommend solutions based on member needs.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities and work independently.
• Proficiency with CRM systems and Microsoft Office applications.
• Knowledge of the banking industry or financial services sector preferred.
Additional Information:
• This position requires extensive travel throughout Illinois with occasional out-of-state travel and overnight stays.
• A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation are required.
• Occasional evening and weekend work is required to support Association events and member needs.
• This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Pay Range: $70,000-$110,000 annually with a generous benefits package that includes employee health insurance, life insurance, and LTD paid by employer; dental, STD and vision offered; 401(k) with match; FSA available; PTO and paid holidays.
Please send cover letter and resume to: mmanci@illinois.bank
Deadline to apply: September 30, 2026
Illinois Bankers Association is an equal opportunity employer.