Event organiser : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates and diplomates, the following degree/HND subjects may increase your chances:

• event management/coordination;
• hotel or catering management;
• leisure and tourism;
• business;
• marketing.

There is no typical route to becoming an event organiser, and you are unlikely to find a graduate training scheme in events management or direct-entry jobs advertised on a regular basis. However, the industry is expanding and graduate-level positions do exist. Most organisations will recruit as vacancies arise, and jobs are generally open to all graduates who demonstrate the right skills and qualities. Speculative approaches are more likely to be successful when made to larger organisations.

Entry without a degree or HND is sometimes possible with relevant work experience.

A pre-entry postgraduate qualification in events management is not required but a relevant course could be advantageous if your first degree/HND is not related. Communication Advertising and Marketing (CAM) Education Foundation  and the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) , for example, offer marketing and sales courses that are relevant to the events industry.

Organisations are keen to recruit applicants with experience and knowledge of the industry so work experience, either paid or voluntary, is essential. Organising or helping with events for a student society, charity or other organisation is particularly useful, as is work in the hotel or travel industry and sales, marketing or customer service experience. Work experience also provides a valuable opportunity to network and develop contacts in the industry.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• excellent organisational skills and attention to detail;
• project management experience;
• time-management skills and the ability to work under pressure;
• problem-solving skills and diplomacy;
• strong communication, teamwork and negotiation skills; sales and/or marketing skills;
• the ability to manage budgets;
• a flexible and adaptable approach.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.