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Job description
The roles of exhibition organisers/event managers vary,
but the work encompasses identifying potential business,
researching, writing, planning and running all aspects of
exhibitions on behalf of a client or own organisation. They
work on public events, trade and industry exhibitions,
product launches, company events and private events
such as weddings. As well as planning an
event/exhibition in advance, they will usually be present
during the event to deal with any issues as they arise.
Work activities
Planning exhibition hall layouts and activities
programme such as workshops, seminars and
demonstrations
Researching suitable venues and ensuring all necessary
equipment is available
Selling stand/exhibition space to potential exhibitors
Seeking and securing sponsorship
Designing anything from online registration forms to
foral arrangements
Arranging insurance cover and ensuring legal, health
and safety requirements are adhered to
Coordinating caterers, stand designers and equipment
hire
Organising car parking facilities, security, frst aid and
catering
Promoting the event and organising the production of
tickets, posters, catalogues and sales brochures
Supervising the dismantling and removal of stands.
Work conditions
Travel: during the working day and absence from home
overnight is occasional.
Working hours: these are mainly Monday-to-Friday oce
hours, but additional unsocial hours can include evenings
and weekends.
Location: opportunities exist mainly in towns or cities
throughout the country.
Opportunities for self-employment: commonly possible
as many work freelance.
Typical employers
Large companies; exhibition organisers; exhibition
centres.
Career development
Entry to and progression within the business is
competitive. Progression is usually by taking increased
responsibility for events within the same organisation, or
by moving to larger organisations.
Salaries
Salaries will vary depending on the employer. In a sector
essentially based on sales, bonuses are a large part of an
event professional's salary.
Exhibition organiser/event manager
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(continued
Entry requirements and training
Open to non graduates and graduates of all disciplines.
Other relevant degree subjects
Business-related studies
Marketing
Public relations
Postgraduate study
While not a prerequisite for entry, graduates with the
appropriate postgraduate qualifcations are likely to
compete favourably.
Training
Training is usually on-the-job, but external courses are
also available.
Tips for applications
Decide whether it is conferences or exhibitions in which
your interest lies, as they are two totally dierent
disciplines. Pre-entry experience is recommended. Many
entrants have experience in sales, marketing, PR and
advertising etc. Build up any experience which could
develop and demonstrate the required skills, eg assisting
at college open days and employment fairs.
Skills and qualities
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Good interpersonal skills, organisational ability and
time management
Ability to multitask
Attention to detail and ability to work eectively under
pressure
Customer focus is vital
Negotiation skills
Willingness to work unsociable hours
Imagination and creativity
Ability to cope with pressure and tight deadlines.
Exhibition organiser/event manager (continued)
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