EVENT MANAGER

〉〉 MAIN DUTIES Planning, managing and coordinating all types of events and functions, such as weddings, seminars and workshops. Tasks include coming up with a theme, drawing up a budget, hiring caterers and entertainment, organising décor, and so forth. It encompasses the entire process behind planning and executing an event.

〉〉 BEST SUITED TO someone who’s creative and detail-oriented. You also need good people and management skills, be able to coordinate various teams, be able to manage a budget, and work well under pressure.

〉〉 WHAT TO STUDY There’s no typical route to becoming an events manager, and entry into this field without a degree or diploma is sometimes possible with relevant work experience. But a degree or diploma in the following subjects will give you an advantage: business, event management, hotel or catering management, leisure and tourism, and marketing. Intec and Damelin offer courses in event planning. Contact the Exhibition and Event Association of Southern Africa at exsa.co.za for more information.

〉〉 EARNING POTENTIAL Entry-level positions for event planners start at R13 000 a month, with an average salary of R35 000 a month after five to 10 years’ experience. Some experienced planners who work with high-end clients can make up to R180 000 a month. What you need to keep in mind with this industry is that it’s volatile and it can take a while to build a client base and a name for yourself.

PROS You get to throw fabulous parties with other people’s money.

CONS Long hours that are often irregular, and handling multiple events at the same time. You might also encounter difficult clients.