Partner Development Officer

PARTNER DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

Ontario Library Association (OLA)
Remote (Ontario-based), with in-person collaboration as needed.

The Ontario Library Association (OLA) is looking for a dynamic, relationship-driven Partner Development Officer to help power some of the most visible and impactful programs in Canada’s library sector.

This is a role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment—someone who can connect ideas to action, build lasting partnerships, and bring large-scale events to life.

At the centre of this work is the OLA Super Conference Expo, alongside the Forest of Reading Festival and other signature programs. You’ll play a leading role in growing participation, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring these experiences are engaging, welcoming, and financially strong.

Band 4 $64,272 starting.
OLA uses a salary grid based on years of service, with COLA increases considered annually by the Board.  Range $64,272-81,324

How will you spend your time?

Lead growth and revenue generation

• Build and sustain relationships with exhibitors, sponsors, and partners
• Drive sales for exhibits, sponsorships, and advertising across OLA programs
• Identify and pursue new opportunities—both within and beyond the library sector

Deliver exceptional events

• Lead planning and execution of the Super Conference Expo, including vendor experience and floor logistics
• Coordinate vendors across all phases—from onboarding to on-site delivery [
• Support logistics for major events like the Forest of Reading Festival and Library as Place.

Build strong partnerships

• Develop and maintain relationships with Associate Members, sponsors, and partners year-round
• Cultivate new connections across the library sector and adjacent industries
• Support senior leadership in deepening strategic partnerships

Strengthen communications and outreach

• Develop prospectuses, marketing materials, and registration platforms for events and sponsorships
• Collaborate with OLA’s communications team to promote programs
• Ensure clear, consistent communication with vendors and partners

Contribute across the organization

• Support membership outreach and customer service with a solutions-focused approach
• Work across teams to support revenue-generating programs throughout the year
• Contribute to projects, committees, and initiatives that strengthen OLA’s reach and impact

Still reading? Good! We’re also looking for you to bring:

• Experience in event planning, sales, marketing, or partnerships
• Confidence leading conversations with sponsors, vendors, or members
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities
• A proactive, problem-solving mindset and attention to detail
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Demonstrated interest in or familiarity with the library, education, or non-profit sector

We need a connector and a builder—someone who combines strong organizational skills with a natural ability to engage others.

Bonus if you bring:

• Experience with large-scale events or expos
• Negotiation and partnership development experience
• French language skills

In this role, success means:

• A vibrant, well-organized Expo that exhibitors and attendees want to return to
• Strong, long-term relationships with partners, vendors, and sponsors
• Growing revenue streams that support OLA’s mission and programs (this role contributes significantly to overall revenue)
• Seamless coordination across teams, with a reputation as a trusted, solutions-oriented collaborator
• New partnership opportunities that expand OLA’s reach and relevance

The team at OLA

At OLA, we work collaboratively across programs, departments, and sectors to support libraries and the communities they serve.

You’ll be part of a small, dedicated team that values:

• Collaboration – we work across functions and support one another
• Innovation – we adapt and evolve to meet the needs of the sector
• Impact – our work connects people to ideas, learning, and community

This role sits at the intersection of programs, partnerships, and operations—offering a unique opportunity to shape both the experience and the sustainability of OLA’s work.

If you’re excited by the idea of bringing people together, growing partnerships, and delivering exceptional experiences—we’d love to hear from you.

Apply Today!

Interviews will be held over Zoom on July 24 and July 28, 2026. 
Anticipated Start date Sept 1, 2026.
Job Description