Event organiser: Salary and conditions

Range of typical starting salaries: £18,000 - £25,000 (salary data collected Sep 08).
Range of typical mid-level salaries: £25,000 - £40,000 (salary data collected Sep 08).
Range of typical salaries at senior level/with experience (e.g. after 10 - 15 years in the role): £50,000 - £70,000 (salary data collected Sep 08).
Salaries vary according to employer, sector and geographical location.
Performance-related pay/commission/bonuses are typical and can increase earnings.
Working hours can be fairly regular between events but may involve additional and unsocial working hours depending on the nature of the event.
Event organisers are mainly office based but will travel to visit clients, partners/sponsors, venues and other suppliers. They may work indoors or outdoors, in all weather conditions, to plan and deliver events.
Self-employment/freelance work is possible for those who have experience and an established network of contacts in the industry.
Part-time work and career breaks are possible but not especially common in this fast-paced business.
Jobs are available throughout the UK, although they tend to be more closely associated with larger towns/cities or locations with large conference/event venues.
Travel within a working day, absence from home at night and overseas work or travel will vary according to your area of specialism and the nature of the events you are working on.

AGCAS

Written by Katie Williams, University of Southampton

Last updated:

October 2008