Events management

Working in the events industry can encompass a wide range of job roles and overlap many industries. For example, events can include major festivals, corporate training days, weddings or part of a long running marketing campaign.

Events vary in their size and impact, with terms such as mega-events, special events and hallmark events to describe and categorise them. Events are also categorised according to their type and sector, such as public, cultural, festivals, sporting, tourism and corporate events. The business events sector includes meeting, incentives, conventions and exhibitions.

You can work for an Event Management company where you will be organising events for the client however there are also in-house management roles where you are responsible for organising events specifically for your organisation.

  • Many large charities have event managers to organise their fundraising events.
  • Some large public sector and educations institutions recruit event managers to organise events ranging from large scale community events to smaller business and trade forums.
  • In the hospitality world, many large conference hotels have their own event management team and it is also worth considering heritage sites and stately homes, for example including National Trust properties, who often require a dedicated events team.

Getting into events management

Although a degree in Event Management is a recognised and useful route into this field of work, it is not always required, work placements and short term voluntary positions will stand you in good stead for a career in the events industry.

A degree in Marketing, Management, Hospitality Management, People Management or Communications may be useful. There are also a range of vocational courses in Event Management which may be worthwhile.

Get involved in organising events whenever you can, eg for a society, voluntary/charity group or join an events or hospitality company as field staff.

  • Association of Event Organisers AEO is the trade body representing companies which conceive, create, develop, manage, market and sponsor supply or service trade exhibitions and consumer events. Useful careers advice sections and job vacancies directory.