Canadian National Exhibition

Seasonal Assistant to the Corporate Secretariat, Events, Hospitality and Government Relations

Toronto, ON

Seasonal

About This Job

Contract Period: Mid-June - September 2nd, 2025

Location: Toronto, ON, (Onsite)

Schedule: Monday through Friday, 9am – 5pm (Flexibility / Overtime Required)

Pay Rate: $20/ HR

About Us

Looking for a paid internship that extends into the summer that’s fun, by the waterfront and gets you access to one of Toronto’s most iconic events? Come join our team at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)!

The CNE fair is a cherished tradition, attracting approximately 1.5 million visitors annually over the course of its 18-day run. Be a part of this summer tradition and help us inspire Canadians and create memories.

The CNE, often affectionately referred to as The Ex, is Canada’s largest community event and one of the top ten agricultural fairs in North America. With something for everyone, our event offers a wide variety of attractions and interactive entertainment experiences including: concerts, midway rides and games, shopping, exhibits, tech and gaming hubs, food and wacky treats!

About the Role

Reporting to the Manager of Corporate Secretariat Services & Government Relations, the Seasonal Assistant Events, Hospitality and Government Relations to the Corporate Secretariat’s role will be to provide general administrative assistance and support to the Corporate Secretariat and to support the department responsibilities in preparation for and on the opening day of the CNE. Other responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

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Miscellaneous support, including supporting the larger CNE staff team, CNEA and corporate entertainment events (receptions, dinners, BBQs etc.)

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Assist with paperwork, filing, phone calls, database updates and other administrative duties as needed

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Support CNEA Board & Committees or other meetings as needed

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Provide support for the CNE Association (CNEA) Membership Exhibit Booth which includes duties such as:

o Greeting participating Members and directing them to the booth

o Ensuring the set-up, maintenance and dismantle of the area surrounding the booth

o Supporting Members during their Exhibit booth day

o Participating in and supporting the CNEA being showcased at the booth

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Act as a delivery service, i.e. drop off items across the grounds and off site

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Assist the CNEA President and other Executives as required throughout the fair, i.e. accompany the President and/or Executive Member to events in their schedules.

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Support the development of and delivery of various events;

o Tracking of event responses

o Following up on event responses

o Event logistics – including setup, execution and clean-up

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Support the participation and event tours of elected or government officials

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Support the Corporate Secretariat to help meet the overall goals and objectives of the department and the association during the fair

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Upon request, assist with drafting letters, briefs, invitations and correspondence to stakeholders including government officials

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Upon request, conduct follow-up calls with the offices of elected & government officials

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Liaise with the other CNE departments and elected or government officials’ offices as required

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Provide support to the CEO / office of the CEO as needed

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Perform other duties as assigned

Special Conditions

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Comfortable working in areas that may contain bright lights, loud noises and crowds of people

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Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions

What We Offer

We offer a dynamic and engaging work environment where interns gain hands-on experience while developing valuable industry skills. Working with the CNEA is a notable opportunity that provides real-world experience, professional mentorship, and access to a strong network of industry professionals. Many of our past interns have gone on to secure successful careers in their fields, leveraging the skills and connections they built during their time with us. As part of our team, you’ll collaborate with experienced professionals and contribute to real projects that directly impact the overall goal of executing the CNE, all within a supportive and social atmosphere designed to foster growth, creativity, and career advancement.

Qualifications & Requirements

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Minimum Age Requirement: 18 years

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Must have a valid G2 or G license

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Available to work flexible hours, late evenings and weekends and available for all 18 days of the CNE from August 15th to September 1st, 2025

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Preference will be given to candidates with related education, volunteer or work experience

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Event experience would be helpful

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Experience in business writing —emails, letters, draft communications, etc.

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Comfortable communicating with a variety of stakeholders including government officials

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Some knowledge of politics / government or any political experience would be helpful

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Hospitality or Customer Service experience would be helpful

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Organized & great attention to detail!

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Ability to perform basic lifting requirements

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Great interpersonal skills

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Energetic, confident, and professional

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Proficient in Microsoft Office

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Previous experience working with a Contact Management Database

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Ability to work independently or as part of a team

Invitation to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume outlining related experience and qualifications to the attention of Human Resources. Please note only candidates invited for an interview will be contacted.

At the CNE we are committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible work environment, where all employees feel valued, respected and supported. The CNE offers accommodation for applicants with disabilities as part of its recruitment process. If you are contacted for an interview, please advise us if you require any accommodation.