What Does an Event Manager Do?

Do you have what it takes to plan, organize, and execute a small- or large-scale event? Would you like to plan a retreat for workers or a street fair in your neighborhood? If so, read on to see if a career as an event manager is right for you. Learn about an events manager's salary, the duties involved, and the certification required.

Event Manager Job Description

What is events management? An event manager is in charge of planning, organizing, and executing all types and sizes of events, like musical concerts, food festivals, and conventions. You'll meet with clients to assess their needs and determine the purpose of the event. After setting an objective, you'll meet with organizers, vendors, and other event specialists to develop an agenda. Financial management is also an important component of this career; an event manager must work within budgetary constraints set by the client.

Important Facts About Event Managers

On-the-Job Training	None
Professional Certification	Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) offered by the Convention Industry Council, Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) offered by the Society of Government Meeting Professionals
Work Environment	Office setting with regular travel to events
Similar Occupations	Administrative service managers, food service managers, lodging managers, travel agents

Event Manager Duties

The role of an event manager involves hiring and supervising staff, reserving locations, arranging catering services, and setting up other accommodations for the event. You might, for example, hire someone to run audio-visual equipment or arrange for limousines to pick up guests. You may monitor the event while it's taking place and resolve issues on site as they arise. An event manager is also responsible for ensuring compliance with all health and safety regulations. Additionally, you may help promote the event and develop advertising plans.

Required Skills

Event managers must have excellent organizational skills. You'll also need to be detail-oriented and have the ability to work well within deadline restrictions. Because this job entails working closely with cast, crew, outside vendors, and sponsors, you'll also need superb written and oral communication skills. Event managing is a hands-on position, and you may do some physical labor when deemed necessary.

Education Options

Most event planners have a bachelor's degree in an applicable field, like marketing, event planning, or hospitality management. In addition to education, employers favor applicants with a lot of relevant experience. You might choose to supplement experience by earning a certificate in event management.

Career Outlook and Salary Information

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicted that the employment of meeting, convention, and event planners would grow 11% from 2016-2026 (www.bls.gov). This growth will be spurred by business globalization and an increased need for events that bring world-wide professionals together. In May 2018, the BLS reported that these professionals earned a median salary of $49,370 per year.