Special Events & Community Engagement Officer

Job Title: Special Events & Community Engagement Officer Location: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ottawa Reports to: Director of Development & Communications Salary: $60,000–$70,000 annually to start, commensurate with experience Employment Type: Full-time Application Deadline: August 10, 2025 Overview: At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ottawa (BBBSO), we believe in the power of mentorship to change lives and build stronger communities. As our Special Events and Community Engagement Officer, you will play a key role in building meaningful connections with our community, planning and executing impactful events (fundraisers, awareness and advocacy-driven), and engaging individuals and organizations in support of youth mentorship. This position is ideal for a relationship-builder, storyteller, and creative organizer who thrives in a mission-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities: Event Planning and Execution:

 Lead the planning and execution of BBBSO events and fundraising initiatives—from concept to completion—including logistics, budgeting, scheduling, volunteer coordination, and on-site management.

 Collaborate with staff, volunteers, and vendors to ensure a high-quality experience for attendees.

 Work cross-functionally to ensure events reflect BBBSO’s mission, values, and brand. Community Outreach and Relationship Building:

 Build and nurture relationships with local businesses, service groups, schools, and community members to enhance visibility and support for BBBSO.

 Represent BBBSO at community events and activations, acting as an enthusiastic ambassador for the organization.

 Identify opportunities for meaningful collaborations and community-led engagement.

Marketing and Communications Support:

 Coordinate the promotion of events and initiatives through BBBSO’s digital platforms, email marketing, print materials, and earned media opportunities.

 Collaborate with BBBSO Marketing & Communications colleagues to create compelling content to highlight upcoming events and post-event successes, reinforcing the impact of BBBSO’s work.

 Assist in storytelling and outreach efforts that spotlight mentors, mentees, and community champions.

Community and Donor Engagement:

 Take the lead in renewing existing sponsorships and securing new sponsors and community partners for events and engagement initiatives.

 Cultivate and manage relationships with donors, corporate partners, volunteers, mentors, alumni, and local businesses.

 Proactively identify and pursue opportunities to grow BBBSO’s network of supporters.  Ensure all partners and supporters feel recognized, appreciated, and meaningfully

involved.  Help foster a strong sense of community and alignment with BBBSO’s mission across all

engagement efforts. Administrative and Reporting Duties:

 Maintain accurate records of contacts, attendance, donations, and event metrics using internal tools and databases.

 Prepare reports that assess the reach and impact of events and outreach activities, offering insights for future planning.

 Support grant reporting or sponsor recognition requirements as needed.

Qualifications and Skills:

 Professional Experience: 3–5 years of experience in event planning and fund development, preferably within a non-profit or community organization.

 Event Management Expertise: Demonstrated experience in planning and delivering successful community or fundraising events.

 Outstanding Communicator: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse audiences.

 Relationship Builder: Proven ability to develop strong connections with community partners and supporters.

 Organized and Detail-Oriented: Skilled in managing multiple projects with competing priorities while meeting deadlines.

 Tech and Social Media Savvy: Comfortable using social media, email marketing platforms, and event planning tools.

 Mission-Aligned: Passion for youth development, mentorship, and social impact.

 Community Engagement Background: Prior work or volunteer experience in outreach, engagement, or non-profit work is considered a strong asset.

 Ontario Driver's License and access to your own vehicle. You will be reimbursed monthly for transportation expenses.

Why Work at BBBSO? Work Environment: Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa is a comfortable working environment and has a diverse and friendly team. This position can include both in-office and remote work. In addition, some evenings and/or weekends may be required.

 Creative and flexible work environment

 Great work-life balance

 Small, highly collaborative team

 Professional development allowance annually Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ottawa is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to hiring and recruiting a workforce and board inclusive of the diverse population it serves. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ottawa promotes the principles of diversity and equity and adheres to the tenets of the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. This job posting is available in an alternative format upon request. If you are a person with a disability and require technical aids or alternate arrangements for tests or interviews, please advise us of these needs when you are contacted for an interview.

To Apply: Please send cover letter and resume to erin.helmer@bbbso.ca before August 11th.

mailto:erin.helmer@bbbso.ca