Media Relations Coordinator, Public Relations

Contract Period: July 20th to September 11th, 2026

Location: 210 Princes’ Blvd. (Onsite, No Remote Work)

Schedule: Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm

                   * Flexibility Required, Including Evenings & Weekends during CNE (August 21st - September 7th)

Pay Rate: $23.40 / hr

ABOUT US

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

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, attracting approximately 1.6 million visitors annually over the course of its 18-day run. With something for everyone, the CNE offers a wide range of attractions and interactive entertainment experiences including: concerts, midway rides and games, shopping, exhibits, tech and gaming hubs, food and wacky treats!

Join the team and be part of this summer tradition, helping us inspire Canadians and create memories!

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Media Relations Coordinator will report to the PR Director and work alongside the CNE Marketing and Communications team. The successful candidate should be a self-starter, effective communicator, enjoy working outdoors in a fast-paced environment, and be able to problem solve in high pressure situations. Candidates should have a good knowledge of Toronto-based media (television, print, online) in various sectors including news, arts/entertainment, lifestyle, food, business etc. and be familiar with relevant social media influencers in the GTA.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Brainstorm creative and engaging angles to garner media coverage for the CNE
• Identify targeted media to pitch various stories and secure interviews for spokesperson(s) and programming priorities
• Regularly update and maintain proprietary media lists
• Support the marketing team with developing tailored social media campaigns, paid partnership opportunities and content
• Coordinate in-studio and/or on-site live remotes for morning shows, lifestyle taping, photo shoots and live remotes
• Organize, and keep detailed records of media accreditation requests; and work with ticketing team to manage distribution of passes
• Write press releases, media advisories, press kit contents
• Draft speeches for CNE spokesperson(s)
• Participate in emergency preparedness sessions and issues management practice
• Respond to media requests in a timely manner
• Staff Media Office (rotating shifts) and respond to all media-related enquiries
• Manage and supervise all on-site television crews; coordinate interviews and logistics as required including IATSE union support as needed
• Assist with CNE Media Preview Day, coordinating logistics with vendors, participants and CNE spokesperson(s)
• Distribute press releases to proprietary lists; distribute daily advisories during the fair, and follow up with assignment desks daily to sustain coverage
• Report any media or public issues to PR Director and follow appropriate communications protocols for issues management
• Daily media monitoring to track coverage
• Compile final coverage report
• Perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

• Must have a valid G2 or G driver's licence
• Must be available to work flexible hours and rotating shifts (morning and late-night shifts) from August 21st to September 7th for the duration of the 18-day fair including weekends and Labour Day holiday
• Currently enrolled in or completed post-secondary education in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field preferred
• Proven experience in media relations, PR, or communications, preferably in a fast-paced or event-driven environment
• Strong knowledge of Toronto-based media across television, print, and online platforms, including news, arts/entertainment, lifestyle, food, and business sectors
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, including experience writing press releases, media advisories, speeches, and press kit content
• Ability to develop creative and engaging media angles to secure coverage and interviews
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and problem solve in high-pressure situations
• Experience supporting social media campaigns, paid partnerships, and content development an asset
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and social media platforms
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with internal teams, media, vendors, and stakeholders
• Comfortable working in areas that contain bright lights, loud noises and crowds of people
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions
• Ability to engage in physical tasks, including safe lifting and moving heavy items
• Comfortable standing and walking for extended periods of time

INVITATION TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter (optional) outlining related experience and qualifications to the attention of the CNE, Human Resources Department.

At the CNE we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive and 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 to arrange an interview, please advise us if you require accommodation. Please note only candidates invited for an interview will be contacted.