What Does an Event Manager Do?
Do you have what it takes to plan, organize and execute a small- or large-scale event? Would you like to plan a retreat for workers or a street fair in your neighborhood? If so, read on to see if a career as an event manager is right for you. Schools offering Hospitality Management degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
Event Manager Defined
An event manager is in charge of planning, organizing and executing all types and sizes of events, like musical concerts, food festivals and conventions. You'll meet with clients to assess their needs and determine the purpose of the event. After setting an objective, you'll meet with organizers, vendors and other event specialists to develop an agenda. Financial management is also an important component of this career; an event manager must work within budgetary constraints set by the client.
Duties
As an event manager, you'll hire and supervise staff, reserve a location, arrange catering services and set up other accommodations for the event. You might, for example, hire someone to run audio-visual equipment or arrange for limousines to pick up guests. You may monitor the event while it's taking place and resolve issues on site as they arise. An event manager is also responsible for ensuring compliance with all health and safety regulations. Additionally, you may help promote the event and develop advertising plans.
Required Skills
Event managers must have excellent organizational skills. You'll also need a keen for detail and the ability to work well in deadline-oriented settings. Because this job entails working closely with cast, crew, outside vendors and sponsors, you'll also need superb written and oral communication skills. Event managing is a hands-on position, and you may do some physical labor when deemed necessary.
Education Options
Since event management is a career that depends more on experience that education, it may be possible for you to enter the profession with nothing more than a high school diploma. You might choose to supplement experience with postsecondary education by earning a certificate in event management. Some upper-level event management jobs require you to hold a 4-year degree in an applicable field, like marketing or hospitality management.
Career Outlook and Salary Information
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicted that employment in event management would grow 16% from 2008-2018 (www.bls.gov). This growth will be spurred by business globalization and an increased need for events that bring world-wide professionals together. Event managers who hold bachelor's degrees may experience the best employment opportunities. In May 2010, the BLS reported that the middle half of event planners earned between $34,800 and $59,130 per year.
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:
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