Job description

Event organisers are responsible for the production of events from conception through to completion. Events can include:

• exhibitions and fairs;
• festivals;
• conferences;
• promotions and product launches;
• fundraising and social events.

The role of event organiser is hands-on and often involves working as part of a team. Event organisers must be able to complete a wide range of activities requiring clear communication, excellent organisational skills and attention to detail. They must work well under pressure, ensuring the smooth and efficient running of an event.

Typical work activities

The role of event organiser varies depending on the organisation and type of event involved. Typical activities include:

• researching markets to identify opportunities for events;
• liaising with clients to ascertain their precise event requirements;
• producing detailed proposals for events (e.g. timelines, venues, suppliers, legal obligations, staffing and budgets);
• agreeing to and managing a budget;
• securing and booking a suitable venue or location;
• ensuring insurance, legal, health and safety obligations are adhered to;
• coordinating venue management, caterers, stand designers, contractors and equipment hire;
• organising facilities for car parking, traffic control, security, first aid, hospitality and the media;
• identifying and securing speakers or special guests;
• planning room layouts and the entertainment programme, scheduling workshops and demonstrations;
• coordinating staffing requirements and staff briefings;
• selling sponsorship/stand/exhibition space to potential exhibitors/partners;
• preparing delegate packs and papers;
• liaising with marketing and PR colleagues to promote the event;
• liaising with clients and designers to create a brand for the event and organising the production of tickets, posters, catalogues and sales brochures;
• coordinating suppliers, handling client queries and troubleshooting on the day of the event to ensure that all runs smoothly;
• overseeing the dismantling and removal of the event and clearing the venue efficiently;
• post-event evaluation (including data entry and analysis and producing reports for event stakeholders).

Although this area of work is open to all graduates and Diplomates, the following degree/HND subjects may increase your chances:

• event management/coordination;
• hotel or catering management;
• leisure and tourism;
• business;
• marketing.

There is no typical route to becoming an event organiser, and you are unlikely to find a graduate training scheme in events management or direct-entry jobs advertised on a regular basis. However, the industry is expanding, and graduate-level positions do exist. Most organisations will recruit as vacancies arise, and jobs are generally open to all graduates who demonstrate the right skills and qualities. Speculative approaches are more likely to be successful when made to larger organisations.

Entry without a degree or HND is sometimes possible with relevant work experience.

A pre-entry postgraduate qualification in events management is not required but a relevant course could be advantageous if your first degree/HND is not related. The Communication Advertising and Marketing Education Foundation (CAM) and the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) run courses which are relevant to the events industry.

Work experience is essential as organisations like to see applicants with experience and knowledge of the industry. Paid or voluntary experience gained from organising or helping with events; work in the hotel or travel industry; sales; marketing; or customer service are advantageous. This also provides an opportunity to develop contacts in the industry. Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• excellent organisational skills and attention to detail;
• project management experience;
• time-management skills and the ability to work under pressure;
• problem-solving skills and diplomacy;
• strong communication, teamwork, and negotiation skills;
• sales and/or marketing skills;
• the ability to manage budgets;
• a flexible and adaptable approach.

It is illegal for employers to discriminate against candidates on the grounds of age, gender, race, disability, sexual orientation or religious faith. For more information see Handling Discrimination.

For more information see work experience and find courses and research.

Please apply using the following form and attach your current C.V.