Events & Program Specialist

Working together to build good business and a great community for all. The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is a coalition of nearly 1,400 businesses, from startups to established enterprises, across private, public, and non-profit sectors, representing more than 34,000 employees in our region.

For over 160 years, the Chamber has led transformative initiatives that have shaped Greater Victoria, championing the development of iconic institutions like the Fairmont Empress, the University of Victoria, and the Victoria International Airport. Founded in 1863, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is the oldest Chamber in British Columbia and one of the longest-standing business associations in Canada.

We work to connect businesses, foster opportunities, and amplify the voice of our members on the issues that matter at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels. Through advocacy, events, programs, and partnerships, we help our members thrive and strengthen the region's economic resilience.

Job Description

The Events & Program Specialist plays a key role in delivering impactful and engaging Chamber events each year, with a focus on member-oriented networking events including Mixers, Connectors, and Member Networking Breakfasts, as well as select educational programming. Reporting to the Events & Sponsorship Manager, this role also provides essential support in the execution of large-scale gala events, including the Business Awards.

In addition to event delivery, this position is responsible for the coordination, administration, and fulfillment of membership-based programs, including the Chamber Champions program and other membership sponsorship initiatives, ensuring sponsors receive exceptional value, consistent communication, and accurate benefit delivery.

This role is ideal for an organized, detail-oriented professional who enjoys balancing event coordination, program administration, and cross-functional collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

Event Planning & Execution

• Lead planning, coordination, and execution of Chamber member networking events
• Oversee event logistics including venue selection, floorplans, audiovisual coordination, catering, event flow, and on-site support
• Innovate event formats to boost engagement and attract diverse audiences
• Support the Events & Sponsorship Manager with the planning and execution of large-scale gala and annual events
• Develop and implement strategies to increase event attendance, engagement, and revenue
• Use CRM software to manage guest lists, track attendance, update event and member records, and generate reporting
• Work with the Marketing & Communications team to promote events through social media, email, and community calendars
• Assist with event setup and teardown and attend events as required
• Evaluate event and program performance by collecting feedback, identifying opportunities for improvement, and recommending enhancements

Sponsorship Coordination

• Identify, secure, and steward event sponsors by developing targeted sponsor lists and customizing sponsorship offerings
• Manage sponsorship fulfillment to ensure all contracted benefits are delivered accurately and on time

Membership Programs & Partnership Coordination

• Coordinate the administration and delivery of membership-based programs
• Prepare and track program contracts; notify internal teams of changes; ensure all benefit deliverables are completed (invoice creation, logo updates, marketing benefits, etc.)
• Develop fulfillment documents to summarize benefit usage and value for program participants upon renewal
• Maintain positive relationships with participants and ensure consistent, high-quality program support
• Support the development of new programming initiatives that align with member needs and Chamber strategic priorities

Benefits of Working with The Chamber

• Compensation: Annual salary range of $55,000 - $65,000, commensurate with experience
• Flexible Schedule: Staff may choose between 'Friday Flex' hours or Standard Hours
• Friday Flex: 8:00-4:30 Monday to Thursday, 8:00-2:00 Friday
• Standard Hours: 8:30-4:30 Monday to Friday
• Extended Health Benefits: Chamber Group Health Benefits available after a 6-month probation period
• RRSP Contributions: Matching RRSP Contributions available after 2 years of employment
• Vacation: 3 weeks of paid vacation annually
• Networking Events: Access to Chamber networking events and an extensive professional contact network.

Qualifications

• Post Secondary education in Events Management, Business Administration, Communications, Public Relations, or equivalent experience
• 3+ years of events or related experience preferred
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, Planner)
• Familiarity with Canva, Adobe Creative Cloud, and CRM software is an asset
• Ability to bend, lift, and move event equipment weighing up to 20 lbs
• Ability to work occasional early mornings and evenings outside of business hours to attend events and meetings
• Ability to travel within the Greater Victoria region to attend in-person events and meetings
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills; ability to prioritize and meet deadlines
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to learn
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Collaborative and adaptable in a dynamic work environment

Join Our Team

The Chamber is committed to being the region's most diverse and influential business association. We strive for an inclusive and respectful workplace and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Please email if you require accommodations at any stage of the recruitment process.

Applications, including a cover letter, resume, and references, will be accepted until 11:59 PM on Sunday, January 11. We appreciate the interest of all applicants; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $55,000.00-$65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company events
• Dental care
• Extended health care
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid time off
• RRSP match
• Vision care

Experience:

• Event planning: 3 years (preferred)

Location:

• Victoria, BC V8W 1B9 (required)

Work Location: In person