Events and Sponsorship Coordinator

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Events and Sponsorship Coordinator is responsible for the planning, promotion, execution, and evaluation of WRLA events and sponsorship initiatives. Working closely with the Executive Director and committee volunteers, the coordinator ensures events run smoothly and meet the association's goals for member engagement, community connection, sponsorship revenue, and financial sustainability.

EDUCATION: Post-secondary education in event planning, marketing, communications, or a related field

EVENT PLANNING AND COORDINATION:

1. Plan, organize, and deliver a range of professional and social events, including (but not limited to):

• CPD sessions
• Annual Judges’ Dinner
• Practice group meetings
• Member appreciation events
• Holiday receptions and networking socials
• Golf Tournament
• Award Dinner

2. Coordinate logistics (venue, catering, speakers, AV, registrations, accessibility, etc.)

3. Work with WRLA staff and volunteers to promote events through newsletters, social media, and member communication channels

4. Track attendance and gather feedback to improve future programming

5. Establish and maintain a schedule from planning to post-event wrap-up.

SPONSORSHIP and FUND DEVELOPMENT:

1. Identify and solicit potential sponsors (e.g., corporations, foundations, philanthropists).
2. Develop and manage relationships with existing and potential sponsors
3. Create and maintain a sponsorship package that aligns with WRLA’s mission and member demographics
4. Secure sponsorships and in-kind donations for events and initiatives
5. Maintain sponsorship records and ensure fulfillment of sponsor benefits
6. Prepare sponsor recognition materials and post-event reports
7. Manage sponsor discussions, finalize contracts, and cultivate ongoing relationships.

ADMINISTRATIVE AND COLLABORATIVE SUPPORT:

1. Collaborate with the Executive Director and staff team on annual event planning
2. Assist in budgeting, invoicing, and tracking event-related expenses
3. Support committee work, especially for events, EDI, and membership engagement
4. Maintain organized digital files and records of events and sponsorships
5. Provide reports to the Executive Director, Board, and Committee Chairs

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:

1. Post-secondary education in event planning, marketing, communications, or a related field
2. 2+ years of relevant experience in event coordination and/or sponsorship development
3. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a member-first attitude
4. Exceptional organizational and project management skills - capable of juggling timelines, sponsor relationships, and event logistics.
5. Comfort with digital tools and platforms (e.g., Canva, Zoom, Microsoft 365)
6. Ability to work independently and collaboratively
7. Strong communication skills - able to craft persuasive proposals and present ideas effectively to a range of stakeholders.
8. Initiative and adaptability - comfortable taking the lead in a dynamic, evolving environment.

9. Experience in a non-profit or member-based organization is an asset