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Events Coordinator

Also known as Functions Coordinator, Conference Coordinator and Meetings and Events Manager.

Events coordinators plan and organise special events, including parties, wedding receptions, product launches, banquets, meetings, conferences and conventions.

Depending on the size of the establishment, events coordinators may work independently or as part of a team.

They often work irregular hours, and on weekends and public holidays.

TASKS

Events coordinators may perform the following tasks:

talk with clients about events and offer suggestions to ensure their requests can be met
negotiate the type and costs of services to be provided, in line with a budget
organise the venue and ensure that it is appropriately set up, with regard to seating and decor
consult with management to ensure adequate staff members are rostered for duty, and with catering staff to plan the menu
consult with service providers such as entertainers and transport companies
coordinate staff to ensure the programme of events occurs on time (for example, speeches and the serving of food and refreshments)
oversee work by contractors and report on variations to work orders
find solutions to any problems that arise concerning services or programmes provided
advise senior management on matters requiring their attention and implement their decisions
follow up with clients to arrange payment and, after the event, to evaluate the service provided
collect and analyse data on projects undertaken, and report on project outcomes

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy working with people
good organisational and time management skills
attention to detail
good interpersonal and supervisory skills
good communication skills
neat personal appearance
comfortable working with computers
able to negotiate, delegate and work under pressure

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as an events coordinator without formal qualifications, but employers usually require Year 10. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications and/or experience in the tourism and hospitality industry.

You may like to consider a VOC qualification in events. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.

You can also become an events coordinator through a traineeship in Events.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Tourism, Travel and Hospitality Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Events coordinators work in large hotels, function and conference centres, community centres and tourist resorts. There are also opportunities for self-employment. Events coordinators may specialise in particular kinds of events such as weddings.

Employment prospects depend on the number, size and frequency of special events.