Events manager apprenticeships - where to start
You can get into this job through
a university coursea college coursean apprenticeshipworking towards this roleapplying directly
University
You can take a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in events management, marketing or communications.
You'll usually need 1 or 2 A-Levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma. You'll need 2 to 3 A-Levels, or equivalent, for a degree.
College
There is no set entry route to become an events manager but it may be useful to do a relevant course like:
- Level 2 Certificate in Event Planning
- Level 3 Diploma in Live Events and Promotion
Some courses in travel and tourism may include an events planning option. You'll usually need 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a Level 2 course. You'll need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a Level 3 course.
Apprenticeship
You could do an events assistant Level 3 apprenticeship. You'll usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths.
Work
You could start as an admin assistant in a marketing or public relations department and work your way up through training and promotion.
Volunteering
Paid or unpaid work as a crew member at large events or exhibitions can be a good way to get experience and build contacts in the industry.
Look out for local announcements for volunteering opportunities.
Direct Application
You can apply directly if you have 2 to 3 years' experience of working in public relations, marketing or hospitality. You could start by organising events and activities for your family, friends, school or college.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Association of Event Organisers and Eventia for training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Events manager apprenticeships - what it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- customer service skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- the ability to work well with others
- to be flexible and open to change
- leadership skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- maths skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Events manager apprenticeships - what you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
In this job you will:
- discuss what type of event the client wants
- come up with original ideas for events
- agree budgets and timescales with the client
- research venues, contacts and suppliers, and negotiate prices
- book venues, entertainment, equipment and supplies
- hire and supervise contractors like caterers and security
- publicise events
- follow health, safety and insurance regulations
- make sure everything runs smoothly on the day
Working environment
You could work at events, at a client's business or on festival sites.
Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers and you'll travel often.
Career path and progression - Events manager apprenticeships
With experience and a good track record, you could run events that have larger budgets and eventually move into senior management.
You could also work freelance or set up your own events management business.