Description
The School of Public Policy is currently seeking a Full-time Limited Term Communications and Event Specialist for approximately 12 months. (Downtown Campus)
Reporting to the Manager, Communications and Marketing, the Specialist, Communications and Events is a dynamic, dual-focus role responsible for delivering strategic communications, marketing campaigns, and high-profile community outreach events for the School of Public Policy (SPP). Operating in a fast-paced, high-volume environment, this individual will split their time equally between creating engaging content and managing end-to-end event logistics.
This position has a high volume of work, with peak times and high stress factors driven by deadline pressures, competing priorities and little tolerance for error. Early morning, evening and weekend hours is required on occasion, as well as some travel. There is some physicality to the position, including event set up, tear down and equipment transportation.
The ideal candidate will exercise professional judgment, exceptional time management, and a high degree of discretion while collaborating closely with the Senior Events Specialist, the broader Communications and Marketing team, academic program teams, and SPP executive leadership.
Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):
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Work independently within a team environment to manage multiple events per year as part of the SPP's outreach activities.
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Develop event plans with measurable objectives, established themes, and key messages aligned with The School priorities.
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Plan and deliver complex events that include multiple panels, VIP guests, government protocols, sponsors, travel and international guests.
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Take initiative to proactively address issues and provide solutions.
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Developing event timelines, and service standards related to project delivery from conception to post-production.
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Work in collaboration with the Communications team and academic program teams to create and provide content for event promotion.
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Developing printed materials in cooperation with the Communications team.
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Oversee post-event activities, creates post-event surveys, collects and submits invoices, and ensures reimbursement of expenses.
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Maintain an in-depth understanding of new developments in the field, industry trends, technology, and best practices by attending professional development opportunities as well as leveraging industry relationships.
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Perform other duties as assigned by the SPP Manager, Communications and Marketing.
Qualifications / Requirements:
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A minimum of three to five years of event management experience is required. Previous experience working in post-secondary educational setting is considered a strong asset.
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Demonstrated competency in social media and event marketing strategy.
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Knowledge of latest digital communications and marketing and social media trends.
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Solid understanding of communications and marketing, and analytical skills.
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Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
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Experience planning small to large in-person events including seminars, conferences, receptions, gala dinners, large public lectures and multi-day educational workshops.
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Working knowledge of protocols including working with Indigenous Elders, government officials and advance security teams for dignitaries.
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Experience with digital/hybrid events and webcasts including the technology and platforms. Strong understanding of audio-visual setups and trouble shooting.
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Strong decision making and time management skills.
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Excellent computer skills including database/information management.
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Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a large, complex organization.
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Ability to adhere to University policies and procedures and adhere to internal control principles and systems.
Application Deadline: September 14, 2026
We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.
This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Specialist/Advisor Job Family, Phase 2.
For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Management and Staff Careers website.
About the University of Calgary
UCalgary is Canada's entrepreneurial university, located in Canada's most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 36,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada's leader in the creation of start-ups. Start something today at the University of Calgary. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.
The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy ii' taa'poh'to'p committing to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives in all that we do.
The university's commitment to the Indigenous Strategy is evident through the oversight of 18 Elders serving on the Circle of Advisors and the many unit-based circles working towards implementation of the strategy including the Faculty Advisory Circle and teams such as the Office of Indigenous Engagement, the Writing Symbols Lodge, and the Indigenous Research Support Team. Many Indigenous-based events and processes are impacting curriculum, programming and polices at the University of Calgary.
As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their academic and professional success while they are here. In particular, we encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply. To ensure a fair and equitable assessment, we offer accommodation at any stage during the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. Questions regarding [diversity] EDI at UCalgary can be sent to the Office of Institutional Commitments ([email protected]) and requests for accommodations can be sent to People & Culture ([email protected]).
Do you have most but not all the qualifications? Research show that women, racialized and visible minorities, and persons with disabilities are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At UCalgary we are committed to achieving equitable, diverse, inclusive and accessible employment practices and workplaces and encourage you to apply if you believe you are right for this role.
We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, however preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.
