Name: Karen Burt
Age: 44
Works for: Planet Productions

What does an events co-ordinator do?
Pretty much what the title says – we co-ordinate events. That includes everything from the pre- to post-production stages. The co-ordinator will manage and oversee all elements that contribute to a successful event, from the suppliers to guests and everything else in between. It encompasses so much it’s difficult to narrow down what the duties entail.

Where and what did you study?
I didn’t study events coordination at all – it was an industry I was interested in and passionate about. Consequently, I forced my way in the back door and worked from the bottom up.

What subjects do you need to do well in at school to become an events co-ordinator?
Languages help, computer literacy is essential and art could help unleash your creative side.

Describe a typical day at work.
Nothing in this business is ever normal or typical, as no two events are ever the same. Pre-production days generally involve a lot of strategic planning: visiting sites, co-ordinating schedules, and having meetings and brainstorming sessions. The actual event days range from set-ups, to ensuring suppliers’ schedules are kept, and doing rehearsals and sound checks if entertainers or models are used. Crisis management is almost always involved!

Do events co-ordinators find work easily in South Africa?
If you’re good at what you do, deliver a good service and can conceptualise innovative elements, work is not difficult to find

Is the job financially rewarding?
Absolutely, but it varies from event to event.

What personality traits should an events coordinator have?
You should be outgoing, level–headed and must be able to multitask.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?
When the image I had of the event or the production in my head is what I see in front of my eyes. That and customer satisfaction, which is also very rewarding.

Is there anything you don’t like about it?
Egos! An event is never about one person – it takes a team to build the big picture and everyone’s role is crucial to the ultimate success. So tantrums and fragile egos have no place at any of my events.

What advice would you give aspiring events co-ordinators?
It’s not for the faint-hearted and it looks more glam than it is. Find work as an assistant to see what’s involved. If you’re really passionate about the industry it’s an exciting career.

FACT CHECK
Many tertiary institutions have a course in public relations or marketing, which could be used in the events co-ordinating industry. Go to www.tertiaryeducation.co.za for a list of institutions and the courses they offer.