Event Organiser

Event organisers are responsible for planning events and ensuring that they run as smoothly as possible. They work on:

• large-scale events, such as the 2012 Olympics
• conferences, seminars, workshops and meetings, both national and international
• corporate events, such as team building sessions or training courses
• incentive travel - trips and other events given by companies to their staff
• trade fairs and exhibitions
• festivals, concerts, charitable and sporting events
• private events, such as banquets, weddings and parties.

The organiser's exact role depends on the type of event and the organisation they are working for, but is likely to include research, planning, administration, marketing, preparing budgets and managing income and expenditure. Event organisers liaise closely with a wide range of people.

Event organisers may work long, unsociable hours, including evenings and weekends.

Organisers divide their time between working in an office, visiting venues and meeting clients. This may result in lengthy periods away from home.

Salaries range from around £14,000 to £60,000 or more at senior levels.

An event organiser should:

• be well organised and efficient
• be able to multi-task
• have good project-management and problem-solving skills
• be able to cope with pressure and tight deadlines
• have excellent communication skills
• be interested in the events industry.

The main employers are independent event management companies and large organisations that have their own in-house departments to organise events. The events industry is growing, but entry is competitive.

Many event organisers have a degree, foundation degree, Higher National Diploma/Certificate (HND/HNC) or postgraduate qualification, although this is not essential. Colleges throughout the country offer relevant courses, for instance in events management or hospitality and events management.

Event organiser is often a second career. Previous experience in the travel industry, hotels, publishing, sales and marketing or any customer service role is useful.

Event organisers gain skills and knowledge on the job and by working alongside more experienced colleagues. There are many training courses available from the industry's professional organisations, covering all aspects of the job, from sponsorship to crowd safety.

Career progress often involves moving to a different employer. Self-employment and overseas work are possible.

Further details