Conference centre manager : Training

Most conference centre managers will already have relevant experience in the hotel, catering or travel industry and will have moved into this role from a more junior or related position. Training is usually provided in-house and mostly involves on-the-job training. This enables employers to gauge the level of training required so that it can be tailored to the employee’s individual needs. You will be expected to learn from experienced colleagues and managers. External courses are also offered by private training providers.

It is important that conference centre managers keep up to date with relevant skills and training. The Institute of Hospitality  offers its own programme of hospitality and tourism management qualifications which offer continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities to all managers and aspiring managers in the hospitality, leisure and tourism industries. Topics covered include business management, financial and business planning and professional development.

Graduates with a non-relevant degree may choose to take a postgraduate qualification in hospitality management. Those with management experience may go on to undertake an MBA specialising in hospitality management.