Strategic Events and Sponsorships Coordinator - Centennial Program (Two-Year Term)

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (DHC) is a storied name in the aerospace industry, recognized worldwide for its pioneering contributions to aviation and its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and reliability. Headquartered in Calgary, AB, DHC currently has approximately 2,400 employees across British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, as well as in markets and distribution hubs world-wide.

Established in 1928, De Havilland Canada has a rich history marked by the development of some of the most iconic and versatile aircraft ever built. These aircraft have served a variety of roles—from bush flying to commercial aviation—and are celebrated for their rugged durability, operational versatility, and excellence in performance.

Over the decades, De Havilland Canada has evolved to meet the changing needs of the aviation industry. Today, we are more than just an aircraft manufacturer; we are a comprehensive aerospace company with capabilities that span design, production, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Our operations are supported by a team of skilled engineers, technicians, and industry professionals who are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship and innovation.

Role Summary

The Strategic Events and Sponsorships Coordinator is a key member of the Brand, Marketing & Communications team responsible for leading the planning and execution of De Havilland Canada's 100th Anniversary (Centennial) Program. This two-year term role will develop a comprehensive program of events, experiences, communications and stakeholder engagement activities that celebrate a century of Canadian aerospace innovation while strengthening De Havilland Canada's brand, customer relationships, employee pride and community presence.

This is a high-profile, high-impact role that requires both strategic thinking and exceptional execution. The successful candidate will lead the Centennial program from concept through completion, coordinating cross-functional teams and external partners to deliver memorable experiences for employees, customers, suppliers, government partners, community stakeholders, alumni, media and aviation enthusiasts.

The Strategic Events and Sponsorships Coordinator will establish the overall Centennial event strategy, supporting the program governance, oversee budgets and schedules, and ensure every touchpoint reflects the De Havilland Canada brand and legacy. In addition to leading the Centennial Program, the role will support other corporate events, executive engagements, customer experiences and strategic Brand, Marketing & Communications initiatives as required to meet business priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and support the execution of the overall Centennial Program strategy and roadmap.
• Build and manage a two-year Centennial master plan, including milestones, budgets, timelines and risk management.
• Support cross-functional planning teams representing Marketing, Communications, Sales, Customer Support, HR, Operations, Flight Operations and Executive Leadership.
• Ensure all Centennial activities align with corporate objectives, brand standards and business priorities.
  
  
  

Event Planning & Execution

Identify and plan Centennial events including:

• Centennial launch event
• Employee celebrations and recognition events
• Customer and Community celebrations
• Government and stakeholder events
• Media announcements and press events
• Manage Centennial sponsorship opportunities and community partnerships.
• Identify opportunities to extend the Centennial through charitable, educational and community initiatives.
  
  
  

Program Management

• Identify and support the management of the Centennial budgets and procurement activities.
• Maintain the Centennial events calendar and critical path.
• Develop standardized planning tools, templates and processes.
• Ensure compliance with corporate policies, insurance requirements, privacy legislation, legal requirements and health and safety regulations.
  
  
  

Additional Responsibilities

• Provide planning and execution support for other corporate, customer, employee and community events, executive engagements and strategic initiatives as assigned, ensuring alignment with De Havilland Canada's brand standards and business objectives.
  
  
  

Experience & Qualifications

• Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) preferred.
• Additional event management certifications (DES, CMM, CVENT or equivalent) considered an asset.
• Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible event management experience, preferably managing large-scale corporate programs or multi-event initiatives.
• Demonstrated success managing complex projects involving multiple stakeholders and competing priorities.
• Experience developing and managing six-figure event budgets.
• Strong contract negotiation and vendor management experience.
• Experience managing executive-level events and VIP hosting.
• Strong understanding of event production, logistics, risk management and event marketing.
• Exceptional communication, presentation and relationship management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and event management platforms.
  
  
  

Competencies

• Strategic thinker with exceptional project management skills.
• Highly organized with outstanding attention to detail.
• Creative problem solver with the ability to design memorable experiences.
• Able to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Flexible, adaptable and resilient in a fast-paced environment.
• Maintains professionalism, discretion and confidentiality.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required.
  
  
  

Term

This is a two-year term position established to lead the planning, delivery and successful completion of De Havilland Canada's Centennial Program, culminating in the Company's 100th Anniversary celebrations and associated legacy initiatives.

Why work at De Havilland?

De Havilland Canada is a Canadian-owned and operated aircraft manufacturer dedicated to providing rewarding opportunities in a diverse and welcoming workplace.

• Work with a team that makes a true difference in the world-making it possible for people to travel around the globe efficiently, comfortably and safely.
• We’ve manufactured over 5,600 aircraft including the most advanced turboprop in the air today. Our experience and expertise in constructing the highest performing aircraft in the industry is second to none.
• Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities are dynamic workplaces led by teams that support and encourage all employees.
• With a passionate team of innovators and a global network of support, De Havilland Canada proudly carries on it’s tradition as a leader in aerospace.
  
  
  

In addition to plenty of opportunities for career growth in a stimulating work environment, De Havilland Canada offers:

• Competitive wages
• Paid vacation
• Extended health benefits (medical, dental, vision, paramedical)
• Life insurance
• RRSP/DPSP Plan
• Employee and family assistance program
  
  
  

At De Havilland Aircraft of Canada (DHC), we are committed to protecting our people, customers, shareholders and the public through Health & Safety Excellence. As such, it is expected that all employees maintain strict adherence to Health & Safety Policies and to perform key physical tasks of the position described in the job description and interview process. This may include but is not limited to the ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions including temperature extremes, confined spaces, working at heights and with or around chemicals. Employees are expected to adhere to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when at work which must include but is not limited to the ability to maintain a positive fit test when mask use is required.

At De Havilland Canada, we aim to be inclusive and diverse and provide equal opportunity for employment. All qualified applicants, regardless of gender, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability, are encouraged to apply. De Havilland will accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities throughout all stages of the selection process. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise your Talent Acquisition representative. Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.

Any offer of employment is conditional on the completion of positive and satisfactory background checks, which may include, proof that you are legally entitled to work in Canada, professional references, verification of employment history, verification of educational background and criminal background checks.