Career Opportunities

Client Relations & Events Specialist

Toronto
Permanent Full-Time

Overview

Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (Blakes), one of Canada’s largest and most successful law firms, has an exciting opportunity for a Client Relations & Events Specialist to join the Marketing department in the Toronto office.   

Reporting to the Director, Client Relations & Events, the Client Relations & Events Specialist is responsible for planning and executing a variety of client-facing and internal events and seminars that meet the Firm’s business development objectives.  

The ideal candidate is a highly organized and proactive professional with a passion for event planning, relationship management, and delivering memorable experiences. If you are passionate about creating exceptional event experiences and thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply.   

  • Responsibilities

    Primary responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to:

    • Collaborating with the Business Development team, legal professionals and stakeholders to conceptualize and deliver memorable client events and experiences, including seminars, receptions, dinners and special events
    • Planning and executing events and seminars end-to-end, including overseeing logistics, budget management, creative elements, onsite support and post-event reporting to ensure seamless delivery
    • Leading virtual and hybrid seminars by managing planning meetings and rehearsals, liaising with webcast providers, and providing technical and live webcast support
    • Supporting Blakes events focused on diversity and inclusion
    • Sourcing, negotiating, coordinating and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers, restaurants and venues 
    • Leading the client holiday gifting campaign and acting as a liaison for national offices 
    • Working with the Business Development team to help manage event invitation lists 
    • Developing and managing event critical paths, day-of-event schedules and run sheets 
    • Working alongside the Creative Services and Marketing Technology teams to draft event materials, coordinate electronic invitations and communications, and provide coaching to co-op students
    • Supporting the Director, Client Relations & Events with the development and execution of Firm retreats and annual Firm Partners’ Meetings
  • Education & Experience
    • Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing or equivalent, or a college diploma with a focus on marketing and events planning required 
    • Minimum of three to five years of corporate event experience required
    • Proficiency with virtual event platforms such as Cvent, Zoom, Webex or comparable technologies is preferred
  • Skills & Abilities
    • Demonstrates strong communication and interpersonal skills, confidently engaging with legal professionals and clients in a personable, outgoing manner
    • Excels in high-pressure, fast-paced environments by remaining calm, prioritizing effectively and meeting multiple deadlines while managing several events at once
    • Brings a proactive, accountable approach to work, showing initiative in taking ownership of tasks and delivering creative solutions to ensure the best outcomes
    • Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail, strong project management skills and the ability to plan and execute logistics efficiently
    • Flexible with work hours, adapting to early mornings, late evenings and occasional weekend events as needed
    • Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team, using sound judgment and effective problem-solving skills to overcome challenges
    • Proficient in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word and CMS platforms.
  • Compensation

    The anticipated annual salary for the Client Relations & Events Specialist position is $70,000 – $90,000. Salary levels will be determined commensurate with internal and market equity and experience.

  • Other Relevant Applicant Information

    Blakes welcomes applications from all qualified applicants. The Firm is committed to maintaining an inclusive work environment composed of people with diverse perspectives, backgrounds, identities and cultures. The Firm provides accommodation for applicants with disabilities and in respect of other protected grounds during the recruitment process, in accordance with applicable laws. Please contact us to request accommodation.

    While our experienced team will select and interview successful candidates, Blakes may use artificial intelligence to assist with shortlisting, screening and evaluating applications.

  • About Blakes

    At Blakes, we care about our people. We are committed to providing exceptional experiences for our clients and employees. As a winner of Canada’s Top 100 Employers, Canada’s Best Diversity Employers and Greater Toronto’s Top Employers awards, we understand the importance of fostering an inclusive workplace environment that brings out the best in each person. Our success as a firm starts with hiring top talent, retaining our people and helping them thrive.

    Please submit your application, including a cover letter and résumé, directly to our application portal. 

    Blakes wishes to thank all applicants for their interest. However, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

    Apply