Career Prospects in Event Management

Events were traditionally organised at a smaller scale with family members and relatives played the role of planners, organisers and executors of the entire function, especially in Indian context. With time, country and men have grown manifold. The preferences, likes, systems, income, family size etc. have likewise changed drastically and these brought about change in dynamics of the way events are planned and executed, although the zest of the celebration remains same but it no longer remained a family affair. Even the smallest of the events today are planned meticulously by trained professionals. It takes much more than just hosting a meal for close family members and friends. Therefore, event management is the road map right form the initiation of the idea to the post event celebration.

What it takes to be an “Event Manager”

From a small birthday party to organising an Olympic sport, all of them require extensive planning, organising and implementing. All such capabilities of an individual are at test, but what is most important is prioritising the tasks and coordination between the team members. Some of the other skills required include the knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, people management, licensing, etc. Some people have natural instinct towards such skills and knowledge. However, joining a prestigious institution where a dedicated programme on Events Management is offered could help gain the required skills and knowledge. The programme range from short-term certificates to full-time degree programmes; graduates can also apply for post graduation in events management.

Scope for Graduates

The scope for event management graduates is immense. There are ample opportunities available not just domestically but internationally as well. Graduates with entrepreneurial skills can venture with their own start-ups. It requires very less capital to set-up, just a few likeminded people with passion to serve and knowledge gained through the certification could lead into setting up small Event Management Company. The company and number of people may be small in size, but there is no limit to executing events of bigger magnitude. However, if one is seeking some hands-on experience before venturing into the business, here is a list of some on the well-known event management companies from around the globe:

• Eventive
• Wonderland
• Quintessentially Events
• Colin Cowie
• MKG
• Sensis
• Wizcraft
• Pegasus
• Tafcon
• Percept

Starting a career would need zeal and passion along with different skillsets. Unlike most of the other businesses, in event management, every event will lead to new challenges and opportunities. Typically, the career ranges from an event assistant to senior manager but some of the prime responsibilities would include:

• Meeting up with the clients
• Presenting the idea and convincing the potential clients
• Forecasting, budgeting and man power planning
• Liaising with all the other stakeholders
• Executing the event
• Post event feedback and review

The event management industry is growing faster than ever; it is still at a relatively novice stage and there is a shortage of skilled manpower. Somebody who joins the industry at the nascent or growing stage will have a very long and rewarding career and one can get the early movers advantage. Starting and growing in the industry would look like working in some of the areas like:

• Event planner / Manager
• Event Manager
• Catering manager and Menu Designer
• Social Media Manager
• Communication Manager
• Theme, Decor and Ambiance Planner

The growing number of institutions is a clear indication of the demand for event management graduates. Event management industry is one of the largest employers in the world and domestically, it is catching up faster than ever. There are limited big players in the Indian market and International companies are yet to explore the Indian market. The popularity of events such as destination weddings, sports events, launch parties, award ceremonies, conferences, international seminars, exhibitions, trade fairs, etc. offer both courage and motivation to look at event management as a rewarding career option. The event management companies are hiring graduates from other discipline because of the shortage of the required manpower. Therefore, opting for a certification and gaining hands-on experience will go a long way in shaping a fruitful career in events management.

About author

Head of School, School of Culinary Excellence Sanjay Sharma holds an MBA from Birmingham City University, UK and brings a rich national and international level work and study experience with him. After completing his bachelor's degree in Hotel Management from IHM Lucknow, he started his career as a management trainee with The Park Hotels, New Delhi, and subsequently worked as chef with them before joining IHM PUSA, New Delhi, as Assistant Lecturer.

Sanjay's first industry interface was his association with Taj Residency, Lucknow. His international work experience includes working with Premier Inn, Birmingham, UK (UK's largest hotel chain). This is now his second stint at Vedatya Institute

Note: This article has been published on the basis of press communication by the college