Events and Communications Specialist

THE HEART RESEARCH INSTITUTE (HRI) is an internationally recognised medical research institute that performs cutting-edge cardiovascular research from our state-of-the-art facilities in Newtown, Sydney and the Charles Perkins Centre (CPC) at The University of Sydney. 

For over 30 years, HRI has been one of Australia's leading research organisations working to detect, prevent and treat heart disease. Our vision is to improve global health through excellence in medical research. Central to our success is generous philanthropic giving, growing and retaining a loyal and engaged database of donors. 

The Role:

The Events and Communications Specialist reports to the Head of Communications and is an integral member of the Development Philanthropy and Communications team. The role is responsible for coordinating the planning and delivery of Events and Communications requirements with leadership from the Head of Communications and diverse stakeholders within HRI, to support the ground-breaking cardiovascular research delivered at HRI. 

You will work collaboratively with your colleagues across the Development and Philanthropy team to deliver a range of strategic Events and seminars that build and reinforce donor relationships and lead to revenue conversion.  

This is a full-time role based in Newtown. We are a nimble, diverse and flexible team. 

Specific responsibilities include:

• Coordination of numerous internal and external HRI events in consultation and collaboration with the extended Development, Philanthropy and Communications and Research teams. 
• Effective management of relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring event requirements are delivered on time and on budget. You will be responsible for developing event plans and timelines, pre and post event briefing and debriefing and reporting.
• Development and coordination of event plans, run sheets and budgets, in collaboration with the Head of Communications and revenue stream leaders.
• Briefing, development, sourcing and coordination of event collateral, merchandise, display materials and core event requirements.
• Coordination of event related communication opportunities including relevant photography, videography, website and social media requirements.
• Effective management of relationships with suppliers/partners including venues, catering, photographers and other third-party organisations, including the negotiation of pricing and fees.
• Planning, sourcing and effective coordination of speakers, volunteers and case studies to be involved in key events. 
• Coordination of event working groups involving internal and external stakeholders.
• Preparation of presentations and speaker notes in collaboration with the revenue stream leaders, Research and Communications teams.
• Effective and timely coordination of all event administration including the coordination of invoicing and payment, database venue and supplier bookings, the coordination of travel and accommodation as required.

To be successful in the role, you will have:

• At least 5 years’ experience in a similar role or a role that requires detailed project and/or account management.
• Proficient use of Microsoft Office including Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint.
• A keen interest and/or qualification in research and/or health would be valuable as would experience in the NFP sector.
• Degree qualified in Business, Arts, Communications, Marketing, Events or related field of study.
• Enthusiasm, energy and passion are key to achieving success in this role.
• Keen attention to detail, a healthy obsession with quality and excellence and impeccable management of event timelines.
• Confidence in negotiating with suppliers and events partners.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to engage different stakeholder groups.
• Ability to coordinate and influence fellow team members and other internal stakeholders.
• Ability to thrive under pressure, deliver against tight timeframes with limited budget and 
• Manage multiple and competing priorities.
• Flexibility and willingness to work outside of standard work hours including after hours and some weekends to deliver key events.
• Align with HRI values of Excellence, Curiosity, Teamwork, Transparency and Inclusivity.

Join The Heart Research Institute during a time of growth and innovation, as we transition the organisation from being very traditional in focus to one focussed on strategic philanthropic giving. For further information on this position, please contact Katrina Dowling at ***************@hri.org.au or on 02 82088*** for a confidential discussion.

To view the benefits of working at HRI, please view our Benefits page: https://www.hri.org.au/join-us/benefits

How to Apply:

Please submit your application online and include the following documentation in your application:

• A cover letter addressed to Katrina Dowling, Director Development, Philanthropy and Communications.
• A detailed resume

Eligibility:

To apply for this position you must have an appropriate Australian or New Zealand work visa.

Closing date: Friday 2nd February 2024

Please note: Due to the volume of applications expected, only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

The Heart Research Institute supports Equal Employment Opportunity. 

We value diversity and encourage applications from women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, people with disability, LGBTQI individuals and applicants of diverse cultures and ages. 

We are committed to the safety and wellbeing of our employees and affiliates, and our community. Whoever you are, you are welcome at HRI.

If you have a disability and need support to submit your application, please email *******@hri.org.au