What is Applaud – People In Public Service?
Applaud is a membership association that recognizes and amplifies the value of public service. We
connect current and former public service employees across Ontario with programs, resources,
recognition and benefits that support them throughout their careers and beyond.
The Opportunity
Applaud is looking for a collaborative and strategic leader to oversee our programs, events, member
clubs and recognition services. Working with teams across the organization, you’ll ensure our offerings are engaging, inclusive, financially responsible and responsive to member needs. You’ll lead program planning and delivery, evaluate performance and help strengthen the member experience while supporting Applaud’s organizational objectives.
What You’ll Do
- Develop and implement annual program plans aligned with Applaud’s strategic priorities, member needs and organizational objectives.
- Oversee the planning and delivery of webinars, workshops, conferences, community events, member clubs and other programming initiatives.
- Manage project timelines, budgets, speakers, facilitators, venues, vendors and event logistics to deliver high-quality experiences.
- Lead and improve recognition services, including awards, campaigns, ceremonies and employer recognition initiatives, while maintaining strong employer relationships.
- Oversee member clubs, including the Book Club and Travel Club, identifying opportunities to strengthen connections, participation and long-term sustainability.
- Establish and monitor performance measures, including registrations, attendance, participation, member satisfaction, costs and return on investment.
- Gather feedback, analyze results and recommend improvements to ensure programs remain relevant, effective and financially sustainable.
- Manage program budgets and expenditures, working with Finance to support forecasting, resource allocation and value for money.
- Supervise, coach and support the Coordinator, Programming and Recognition, setting priorities, providing feedback and encouraging professional development.
- Collaborate with Marketing & Communications, Member Growth & Relationships, Finance, Data and other internal teams to support promotion, engagement, reporting and organizational priorities.
- Build relationships with speakers, employers, associations, public-sector organizations and community partners, representing Applaud professionally.
What Success Looks Like
You’ll help deliver high-quality, relevant programs and recognition services that strengthen member
satisfaction, participation and engagement across Ontario. Success will include achieving annual
program objectives, delivering effective events and recognition initiatives, improving participation and
return on investment, maintaining responsible budgets, developing sustainable member clubs and
supporting the growth and development of your direct report.
What You Bring
- Post-secondary education in a relevant field, such as program management, business, communications, event management or a related discipline.
- At least five years of progressively responsible experience in program management, event planning, delivery and evaluation.
- Experience supervising, coaching or managing employees and supporting professional development.
- Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, timelines and deliverables.
- Experience developing and evaluating programs, analyzing performance data, measuring outcomes and recommending improvements.
- Knowledge of budgeting, expenditure management, vendor coordination and resource planning.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with the ability to collaborate across teams and with external partners.
- Strong judgment, problem-solving skills, attention to detail and a commitment to inclusion, accountability and continuous improvement.
- Experience in a public-sector organization, non-profit, association or membership-based environment is preferred. Experience with recognition programs and virtual event platforms is an asset.
Why Applaud?
Join a collaborative team helping recognize and celebrate the people who dedicate their careers to
public service. You’ll lead meaningful programs, create opportunities for connection and recognition,
and help build an inclusive community where member needs, collaboration and results guide how we improve.
How to Apply
Send your resume and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and interest to
hr@applaudpublicservice.ca. Use “Manager, Programs & Recognition Services” as the email subject
line.
Applaud – People in Public Service is committed to an accessible and inclusive recruitment process.
Accommodation is available throughout recruitment and selection upon request.
