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BACKGROUND

The Sydney Downtown Development Association (SDDA) is a voice and trusted resource for businesses that has been operating in Downtown Sydney since 1989. The SDDA’s membership includes over 250 businesses. SDDA is a non-profit organization and, with two full-time employees and a volunteer Board of Directors. It supports the growth and development of Downtown Sydney through marketing initiatives, member advocacy and support, government relations, placemaking projects, programming, and events to make Downtown Sydney a more vibrant place to gather.
 

Core funding of SDDA comes from a levy on commercial property taxes collected by the municipality and disbursed monthly to SDDA. These properties must be located within the boundaries of SDDA (from the Waterfront to George Street; and from Dorchester to Townsend Street). Additional project-specific funding is received through government grants, community support, and the management of a parking lot. 

VISION | MISSION | MANDATE

Vision: 

Downtown Sydney is Cape Breton’s choice for shopping, dining and entertainment. It is a place where businesses thrive.

 

Mission: 

To champion collaboration, vibrancy, and economic prosperity for Downtown Sydney.

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Mandate:

  • To be the voice of Downtown Sydney and advocate for change/progress on issues that matter to the membership

  • To promote Downtown Sydney and its businesses through marketing, events, and initiatives

  • To lead efforts to make Downtown Sydney a beautiful place to work, live and visit

  • To support Downtown businesses by providing practical resources and connections to make it easier to operate/start a business Downtown Sydney

JOIN OUR TEAM

Administrative Coordinator

 

Job Summary:

The Administrative Coordinator plays an important role in supporting the activities and initiatives of the Sydney Downtown Development Association (SDDA) to enhance community engagement and support economic development. Working closely with the Executive Director, this position provides administrative support while also assisting with marketing, communications, events, programs and member engagement.

The Administrative Coordinator will be responsible for managing assigned tasks and projects independently, staying organized and ensuring work is completed in a timely manner. This is a varied, hands-on position suited to someone who is organized, personable, creative and comfortable taking initiative in a small, community-focused organization.

 

About our Working Environment:

The Board of Directors of the Sydney Downtown Development Association is committed to supporting its staff and fostering a positive and collaborative work environment. The office is open 5 days a week and closes over the Christmas holidays. During this time staff are paid, and this is in addition to their vacation time. The Administrative Coordinator is entitled to 15 days of vacation each fiscal year, which is Apr - Mar. Professional development is considered an asset, and staff are encouraged to work with the Board to achieve desired outcomes.

 

Responsibilities:

  • Administrative: Provide administrative support to the Executive Director, including but not limited to general clerical duties, managing calendars, scheduling meetings, preparing documents and correspondence, maintaining records and assisting with general office coordination. Work independently on assigned tasks and follow through to completion.

  • Marketing: Assist with the development and implementation of marketing activities to promote the BID's initiatives, events and programs. Help manage SDDA's online presence, including website content, social media channels and email newsletters. Create engaging and informative content to communicate events, programs and initiatives.

  • Event Coordination: Assist with planning, organizing and executing various events and programs. Help coordinate event logistics, communications, vendors, volunteers and other details as required. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required for SDDA events.

  • Member & Community Engagement: Assist with communications and outreach to downtown businesses, community partners and other stakeholders. Help maintain positive relationships with members and support initiatives that encourage participation and engagement.

  • Reporting & Evaluation: Assist with tracking marketing metrics, event attendance and program participation. Help organize information and prepare basic reports and summaries to evaluate programs and initiatives.

  • Budget & Administrative Management: Assist with tracking program and event expenses, processing invoices and maintaining organized financial and administrative records. Support the Executive Director with basic budget tracking and other administrative duties as required.

  • Graphic Design & Branding: Assist with creating visually appealing graphics and promotional materials for social media, newsletters, events and other communications. Help maintain consistency with SDDA's branding across marketing materials and programs.

 

Qualifications:

  • Post-secondary education in Marketing, Communications, Business Administration, Tourism, Event Management or a related field is considered an asset. Equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience will be considered.

  • Previous experience in administration, marketing, event planning, customer service, community engagement or a related field is considered an asset.

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with diverse audiences.

  • Basic proficiency with digital marketing tools and platforms, including social media management, email marketing software and website content management systems.

  • Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

  • Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities, with a willingness to learn and take on new responsibilities.

  • Knowledge of graphic design principles and experience using design software is an asset.

  • Ability to work independently, take initiative and manage assigned responsibilities, while also working collaboratively as part of a small team.

  • Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow through on tasks from start to finish.

  • Passion for community development and a commitment to supporting local businesses and enhancing the quality of life for everyone who works, plays and lives in Downtown Sydney.

 

Salary Range: $38,000–$42,000 based on experience

 

Closing date: October 2nd, 2026

 

To apply, please send your cover letter, resume and references to info@downtownsydney.ca with the subject line “Administrative Coordinator.” Applications will be accepted until October 2nd, 2026.

BOARD MEMBERS

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Cory Blundon

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Lindsay Joe

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Kate Zwicker

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Matt MacPhail

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Owen MacPhee
TREASURER

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Jacob MacDonald

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info@downtownsydney.ca

902-562-3399

243 Charlotte Street

PO Box 865, Sydney,

NS B1P 1C6

 

@DowntownSydney

©2023 DOWNTOWN SYDNEY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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