PROFESSION

Events Manager

Name:
Ben Aherne

Degree:
BSc Sports Science

Employer:
Loughborough University

Typical Day
Advantages
Qualifications
Resources

A day in the life of a...
Events Manager

Job Description
An Events Manager organises and manages key events such as exhibitions, conferences, product launches and social events. They work with and support events committees as well as coordinate and support major sporting events.

A day in a life of an Events Manager
The key to being successful in events management is being methodical, very organised and an excellent communicator, as you will have to multi-task a number of projects at one time. My day often starts with writing a list of 'things to do' which I gradually work my way through - although the list tends to grow rapidly! Depending upon the stage of the event will determine your duties but typically your time is best spent in the office on the telephone or computer.

3 great things about being a Events Manager

1.	Plenty of variety. No two events are the same

2.	You learn to thrive under pressure and challenge yourself by correcting things that may go wrong

3.	Your event portfolio is an enjoyable and impressive measure of your development

3 not so great things about being in events management

1.	At events, even as a spectator, you are constantly analysing and seeking ideas

2.	Very unlikely to enjoy what you are staging without being disturbed

3.	Long and stressful hours on the eve of an event

Qualifications recommended you gain

Many sports science courses offer modules in Event Management which can give you an excellent insight into Project Management, Health & Safety for Risk Assessments and Budget Management. The Institute of Sport & Recreational Management (ISRM) delivers comprehensive professional qualifications across a broad range of sport occupations and teaches you the latest in best practice. However, there is no substitute for actively being involved in assisting at any event!

Salary range?
£25,000 - £35,000

3 opportunities and experiences you recommend people gain?

1.	Develop your team skills and learn to work with a wide range of personalities by joining school / college committees or voluntary groups

2.	Don’t hold out for your dream event, climb the runs of the ladder and look at getting your foot in the door. After all, the skills you acquire will always be transferable. For instance, my first event was the British Open Chess Championships and ten years later I’m working with Olympic athletes

3.	Source opportunities to become involved in major sporting events. The UK will be hosting a number of prestigious events in the build up to London 2012 and will require assistance to help them run efficiently. Volunteering is one of the most important aspects of staging a successful event and the process to completing application forms will stand you in good stead for the future