What Do Event Organisers Do?
Millions of events take place each year, from the small and intimate to the large and spectacular; event management is the art of making sure that they go off without a hitch. Here we will look at what it is like to work in this fast-paced industry.
What is Event Management?
Event management involves planning and managing everything from fundraisers, festivals and sporting events through to weddings, conferences and awards ceremonies. Tasks can include researching venues, lining up caterers and liaising with clients through to planning the music, lighting and seating arrangements. Once those events get started the role becomes all about ensuring that your detailed plans come together perfectly.
Positions in Event Management can include the following;
- Event Organiser
- Fundraiser
- Tourism Officer
- Activities Co-ordinator
- Resort Manager
The days can be long, tiring and often stressful; however, a career in Event Management can also be extremely gratifying, especially when those more elaborate plans come to fruition. According to seek.com, Event Coordinators in Australia make an average salary of $58,119.
To succeed in this industry, the following skills are required;
- Attention to detail
- Ability to thrive under pressure
- Effective collaborator
- Clear communication
- Strong organisational skills
- Social media savvy
One of the easiest ways to get started in Event Management is by volunteering as this will give you a close-up look at what the industry is all about while providing you with invaluable skills, knowledge and contacts. Your volunteer experience will also boost your resume considerably.
“If you are an organised type, love meeting people and like the idea of pulling off awesome events regularly, consider a career in Event Management”
What Qualifications do I Need?
The best way to sharpen your skills, show your commitment to the industry and position yourself for success is by taking an event management degree. Programs range from wedding planner courses and diplomas of events through to studying event management at TAFE and below are just a few of your many great options;
Diploma of Events (SIT50212)
This nationally recognised program covers all of the finer details of professional events management and will have you ready to plan and manage events of every description.
Bachelor of Business (Event Management)
This online course will teach you how to design, plan and implement events, as well as market them effectively. By covering the core components of business, finance, marketing and management, this widely respected program will have graduates primed and ready for careers such as Event Management, Conference Manager and Fundraising Manager.
SIT30612 Certificate III in Events
Get your career in events off the ground fast with this nationally recognised course that covers everything from preparing documents and presenting graphics to using the latest industry-relevant software. Graduates will be ready to go straight into roles such as Entry-level Coordinator, Event Assistant and Event Operations Assistant.
Where Will my Career Take me?
There are openings all over the world for event management professionals, with many roles also including travel opportunities. The following are just a few of the many sectors where you could end up;
- Travel and Tourism
- Hospitality
- Wedding planning
- Sporting events
- Entertainment
- Corporate functions
- Not-for-profit fundraising
According to joboutlook.gov.au, Event Coordinator positions in Australia have grown in number every year since 2013, making this one of the few industries still considered future-proof. The vast majority of jobs can be found in NSW (47%), with QLD (17%) and VIC (16%) your next best options.
If you are an organised type, love meeting people and like the idea of pulling off awesome events regularly, consider a career in Event Management. To get started simply choose the course that resonates most with you and you’ll be well on your way to one of the world’s most exciting careers
