The events industry is one of the most exciting and fast-growing sectors in Ireland and around the world. From international conferences and large-scale sporting occasions to music festivals, community celebrations, and corporate launches, events play a vital role in how people and organisations connect. Next week’s Pathways conference is an event that requires meticulous planning and organisation.
Behind every successful event lies a team of professionals who combine creativity, organisation, and strategic thinking to bring experiences to life. As the demand for memorable, well-executed events continues to rise, so too does the need for skilled event managers who can plan, coordinate, and deliver them effectively.
What is event management?
Event management is all about creating experiences that leave a lasting impact. It involves planning, organising, and executing events of all types and sizes — from weddings and concerts to exhibitions and conferences. Event managers must balance creativity with logistics, ensuring that every element, from décor and catering to scheduling and safety, runs smoothly.
A successful event management team is made up of professionals with diverse skills and specialisations:
Event Coordinator – Oversees the planning and delivery of events, ensuring that all aspects — food, décor, personnel, presenters, and technology — come together seamlessly.
Wedding Planner – Works closely with couples to design and deliver weddings that match their vision and budget, handling everything from venue selection to supplier coordination.
Venue Manager – Manages event spaces such as concert halls, arenas, and hotels, ensuring events are executed efficiently while maintaining high standards of safety and service.
Catering Services Manager – Coordinates food and beverage operations, combining culinary expertise with planning and problem-solving skills.
Staff or Volunteer Coordinator – Manages the recruitment, scheduling, and supervision of staff or volunteers, a crucial role in festivals and large-scale events.
Marketing and PR Professional – Promotes events across social media, publications, and broadcast channels, generating awareness and audience engagement.
These roles are supported by general event staff who help with set-up, guest assistance, ticketing, and logistics — proving that successful events are truly a team effort.
Why choose a career in events?
A career in events is ideal for those who thrive in fast-paced, people-focused environments. It offers variety, creativity, and the satisfaction of seeing ideas come to life. Every event presents new challenges and opportunities — whether it is designing a festival layout, negotiating sponsorship deals, or managing live performances.
Moreover, the events industry has proven to be remarkably resilient. Post-pandemic, there has been a strong resurgence in in-person gatherings, complemented by the growth of hybrid and virtual events. This expansion has opened doors for professionals skilled in technology, communications, and digital engagement, alongside traditional event management expertise.
Pathways into event management
Ireland offers multiple educational routes into this exciting profession, catering to different learning styles and career ambitions.
Higher Education – CAO Courses
Several universities and institutes of technology offer degree programmes focused on events and tourism management.
AU905 – Tourism and Event Management, ATU Sligo
This diverse business degree equips students with a broad foundation in event management, tourism, and marketing. Students benefit from industry projects, guest lectures, and real-world collaboration with national and international event professionals.
DK752 – Event Management, Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT )
This programme teaches students how to plan, manage, and evaluate events from start to finish. Coursework covers marketing, PR, technical operations, and financial management, while practical assignments help students develop hands-on experience through client projects and risk assessments.
Further Education – PLC and FET Courses
For those who prefer a more direct or practical entry point, Ireland’s Further Education and Training (FET ) sector offers excellent programmes in event management.
6M3618 – Arts Events Management, Inchicore College of Further Education
This course prepares students to manage arts and cultural events at community, national, and international levels. It develops marketing and entrepreneurial skills essential for producing creative and sustainable events, and also offers progression routes to higher education.
5M2102 – Event Management, City of Dublin FET College, Ballsbridge Campus
Focused on the fundamentals of event planning, this course trains students in areas such as public relations, organisation, planning, IT, and time management. Graduates emerge with the practical and communication skills needed to begin a career in this dynamic field or to advance to degree-level study.
Building your career
Beyond formal education, many professionals gain experience through internships, volunteering, or working part-time at festivals, venues, or hospitality events. The Irish events industry values hands-on experience, initiative, and problem-solving. Building a portfolio of successful projects — no matter how small — demonstrates your capability to manage real-world challenges.
Networking is also key. Joining professional associations, attending industry events, and connecting with peers can open doors to job opportunities and mentorship. With experience, event professionals can progress to senior management roles, consultancy positions, or even establish their own event companies.
As organisations continue to seek innovative ways to engage audiences, the need for skilled event managers is stronger than ever. Whether your passion lies in cultural festivals, business conferences, sports events, or weddings, a career in event management offers creativity, variety, and the chance to make a tangible impact.
With Ireland’s robust education system and thriving events scene, there has never been a better time to step into this exciting and rewarding industry.
