• Conferences
• Exhibitions
• Product launches
• Fund raising events
• Weddings
• Parties
• Festivals
The task and responsibilities of the event program management is to look for and reserve the appropriate space that is required for the event to take place. The Events Program Manager also finds the catering services, other than setting up the equipment that is necessary for the event.
If you are planning to become an events manager, you will require a college degree and relevant experience in the field. The first step towards becoming an Events Program Manager is to study and prepare you for a bachelor's degree in a field that is related to management. Choose from an events management program or degree. Going for a qualification in business management with specialization in tourism and hotel management will prove beneficial in the long run. However, you need to remember that whatever your qualifications are, you may still have to work your way up into a management position.
Training in event program management helps if you work as an event staff member for the special as well as sporting events in your college. Planning as well as promoting the local music shows in your school is also effective training for the aspiring events managers as there are event areas available for use by the students. While you may not reap financial rewards by promoting a local band, but the training and experience you receive can be very useful.
A lot of schools hire students for working as ushers when the special events are in progress. When you are in an event program management job, this experience in the entry level can help build your resume. Trying an internship with a special events program group can be helpful as you will learn all about handling concerts or business conferences. Even if your internship in event program management is not challenging, you can still make some very important contacts in the industry.
Entry level planning jobs are helpful for events managers. Start at the bottom and you can work your way upwards with the experience you gained in college. This should help you get hired directly to the planning staff of a local group. Volunteer in an events management program to help at the local events. If you are registered or affiliated with a religious organization or a community group, inform them about your interest in being an Events Program Manager, as you may be hired for working as a part timer and help them in the planning of events.
The career prospects of events managers are based on the success and ability of your present role. Chances are better if you can demonstrate a work hard attitude and taking on additional responsibility. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has estimated that the prospects for the events managers are likely to grow by the year 2014. Added to that, you can get promoted by taking on additional work responsibility.
The median annual salary for the events managers is between $58,000 and $86,000, depending on the expertise and experience of the staff. At the starting level, you can earn between $32,000 and $34,000. Once you reach the senior level, you can make up to $42,000, although the salaries vary on the basis of size, nature, and location of the company.
The task of the event program management staff is to work for agencies or as a part of an in house team for a larger organization. They create budgets and venue proposals, book venues, hire equipment, select and manage caterers, designers, and subcontractors. Other than that, the events manager also manages finances and monitors the effectiveness of an event. The duration of work is long and irregular and weekend schedules are often the norm. Get your foot in the door with relevant qualifications and work experience.
