The McMaster Institute for Research on Aging is a research center at McMaster University focused on aging optimization. It pursues this goal through interdisciplinary teams that work with older adults and key stakeholders. The institute leverages platforms like the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal and collaborates with the Labarge Centre for Mobility in Aging. Its work spans biology and behavior, aging-related mobility, and health outcomes to reduce costs and improve well-being. The initiative aims to impact Canadian aging populations at scale through education, research collaboration, and public-facing resources.
The McMaster Institute for Research on Aging is a research center at McMaster University focused on aging optimization. It pursues this goal through interdisciplinary teams that work with older adults and key stakeholders. The institute leverages platforms like the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal and collaborates with the Labarge Centre for Mobility in Aging. Its work spans biology and behavior, aging-related mobility, and health outcomes to reduce costs and improve well-being. The initiative aims to impact Canadian aging populations at scale through education, research collaboration, and public-facing resources.
Bachelors Degree in Marketing, Communications or a related field.
Completed or working towards Events Management Certificate.
Career Level
Requires a minimum of 3 years related experience
Location
McMaster Main Campus, Hamilton
Anticipated Start Date
March 1, 2026
Employment Type
LTE (Limited Term Employee)
Duration
36 Month Appointment
Job Description
Responsible for all aspects of developing, implementing and evaluating an event/program experience and communication plan to support the success of the event/program. Works in close collaboration with the event/program manager as well as internal and external stakeholders. This position is responsible for large-scale events and stakeholder involvement.
Unit Description:
Planetary Health at McMaster recognizes the interdependence between the well-being of the planet and its people. As one of the key pillars of the campaign, it seeks to promote and support research activities that understand and address the complex interactions between human well-being, environmental health, and related socio-economic systems. Through this pillar, we are endeavoring to be a world leader for planetary health by designing a blueprint for environmental change that can be used everywhere. Our campus will be a test site for sustainable infrastructure, restored land, and clean, affordable and abundant energy. We will get to net zero the right way: By figuring out the answers right here on campus and modelling them for communities and industries across the world. The Event and Communications Specialist for the Planetary Health initiative at McMaster University acts as a strategic catalyst across the Faculties of Science, Engineering, and the DeGroote School of Business, driving the university's vision to pioneer global environmental change. This role is responsible for leading adverse portfolio of high-impact engagement platforms and knowledge-sharing initiatives. The Specialist oversees the evolution of the initiative's digital identity and leads integrated communication strategies that synthesize interdisciplinary research into compelling narratives for global stakeholders, donors, and industry partners. By fostering collaborative synergy across academic boundaries and designing dynamic outreach programs, the incumbent ensures that McMaster’s innovations in net-zero infrastructure and ecological restoration remain at the forefront of the global planetary health discourse.
Purpose and Key Functions:
Develop, coordinate and implement a strategy and work plan for the successful delivery of an event/program and related communication plan.
Work collaboratively with the marketing and design team to strategically develop and research the required infrastructure for events such as equipment, room rentals, software solutions, contingency plans etc.
Develop and execute event logistics plans including (but not limited to) registration, venues, space, crisis management protocol, set up and take down of all events, marketing coordination and the recruitment and training of all volunteers and staff involved.
Prepare and present a final written comprehensive report (debriefing) addressing event logistics, event experience outcomes and recommendations for future events.
Develop and implement an effective communication plan to maximize event participation and ensure communication is maintained during events.
Compile and disseminate sponsorship packages. Research appropriate strategies and cultivate relationships targeted to raising sponsorship.
Develop presentations and present information at a number of forums including sponsorship proposals to prospective donors, student events, information fairs, information sessions etc.
Complete needs assessment to ensure the needs of all stakeholders are being addressed in an efficient and effective manner.
Responsible for the recruitment, interviewing, selection, training and scheduling of a large number of volunteers and casual/temporary event staff to execute event.
Research potential venues, availability and required equipment. Coordinate the use of all facilities and meeting spaces.
Source pricing information to recommend best value for money, manage inventory and order supplies.
Liaise with all suppliers of contracted services to ensure agreed upon services have been provided and accuracy of billings.
Act autonomously and independently in making all necessary related decisions to ensuring the successful execution of events.
Act at the key contact in a large scale event to resolve problems or issues that may arise.
Develop, cultivate and maintain good relationships with stakeholders including students, internal departments, partners and external stakeholders.
Maintain all related documentation in regards to the events to ensure an audit trail and business continuity.
Remain current in the area of event management, related social media and communication strategies.
Act as the first responder in the case of student crisis situations. Ensure proper protocols are followed and communication to managers and university officials is completed.
Prepare contingency plans in the case of inclement weather conditions and/or respond to other unforeseen event disruptions.
Track actual expenditures and provide proper documentation to substantiate expenses and revenues
Supervision:
Ongoing responsibility for supervising 1-9 casual employees.
How To Apply
To apply for this job, please submit your application online.
Employment Equity Statement
McMaster University is located on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee and Mississauga Nations and within the lands protected by the “Dish With One Spoon” wampum agreement.
The diversity of our workforce is at the core of our innovation and creativity and strengthens our research and teaching excellence. In keeping with its Statement on Building an Inclusive Community with a Shared Purpose, McMaster University strives to embody the values of respect, collaboration and diversity, and has a strong commitment to employment equity.
The University seeks qualified candidates who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, who will contribute to the diversification of ideas and perspectives, and especially welcomes applications from indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) peoples, members of racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women, and persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.
As part of McMaster’s commitment, all applicants are invited to complete a confidential Applicant Diversity Survey through the online application submission process. The Survey questionnaire requests voluntary self-identification in relation to equity-seeking groups that have historically faced and continue to face barriers in employment. Please refer to the Applicant Diversity Survey - Statement of Collection for additional information.
Job applicants requiring accommodation to participate in the hiring process should contact:
Human Resources Service Centre at 905-525-9140 ext. 222-HR (22247), or
Faculty of Health Sciences HR Office at ext. 22207, or
School of Graduate Studies at ext. 23679
to communicate accommodation needs.
Hybrid Work Language
To ensure an ongoing and vibrant University community that meets the needs of our students, staff and faculty and supports the University mission, ability to work on-site continues to be a requirement for most University positions. The University is supportive of exploring flexible work arrangements that effectively balance operational needs and employee interests.
Interview Experience
At McMaster University, we believe in a comprehensive and inclusive interview process. Our interview methods encompass a variety of approaches that allow our hiring teams to provide a flexible and accessible experience for engaging with our candidates. Throughout your recruitment process at McMaster, you may be requested to participate in a variety of formats, that may include in-person, virtual or recorded interviews. If you have any questions as you move through the hiring process, please reach out to talent@mcmaster.ca or the HR contact associated with your position of interest.
AI Statement
McMaster and its third-party partners may use AI tools to screen, assess, or select applicants during the hiring process. Please note that currently our recruitment platform does not use AI nor is it part of our current recommended recruitment process.
