Jim Rallis

Jim Rallis is a seasoned public servant and labor advocate who began his FDNY career as a firefighter in March 1986. The setback of the 1989 UFA contract arbitration motivated him to further his education at Cornell's School of Industrial and Labor Relations, where he gained a deeper understanding of labor relations. In the UFA, he served as Company Delegate, Battalion Delegate, Political Action Delegate, and on the Negotiating Advisory Committee, contributing to significant bylaw and constitutional amendments.

Promoted to Lieutenant in 1997, Jim continued to share his expertise in labor relations. He led efforts to revamp the UFOA constitution and served on the Negotiating Advisory Committee at the request of the Executive Board. His dedication to union advocacy is rooted in his upbringing, influenced by his father, a union carpenter, and neighbors who were prominent union leaders: Ray Corbett, the NYS AFL-CIO President, and Tom Cuite, the NY City Council Majority Leader. These relationships instilled in him the importance of unions, integrity, trust, and strong leadership.  Jim feels incredibly lucky to have been influenced by these great men growing up and watched how they got NYC through some tough times and witnessed how hard work, and long hours of dedicated service made a difference in people's lives.

Jim’s career is marked by his commitment to improving labor relations and advocating for his colleagues, ensuring fair representation and strong leadership within the FDNY.