Corporate Event Planner

What is a corporate event planner?

A corporate event planner is someone who plans and organizes events for companies or businesses. They are responsible for everything from choosing the venue to coordinating vendors and managing budgets.

What does a corporate event planner do?

Usually, a corporate event planner does the following:

• Works with clients or stakeholders to understand their event objectives and requirements
• Researches and selects venues that fit the event's needs
• Coordinates with vendors such as caterers, decorators, and audiovisual technicians
• Creates event timelines and manages budgets
• Handles logistics like arranging transportation and accommodations
• Oversees event setup, execution, and breakdown
• Ensures client satisfaction and resolves any issues during the event

What does the day-to-day life of a corporate event planner look like?

A corporate event planner usually works regular office hours, but they may need to work evenings and weekends when events are scheduled. They spend their time:

• Meeting with clients or stakeholders to discuss event details and requirements
• Researching and contacting potential venues and vendors
• Managing budgets and creating event plans and schedules
• Coordinating with vendors to arrange services and deliveries
• Attending site visits and making sure event spaces are set up properly
• Overseeing event execution, ensuring everything runs smoothly
• Handling post-event tasks like reviewing feedback and settling invoices

Where does a corporate event planner work?

Corporate event planners can work in different settings:

• Some companies have in-house event planning teams, so you'll work on events for that specific company.
• Other event planners work for event planning agencies or companies that specialize in organizing corporate events for various clients.
• Some planners also choose to work freelance, where they find their own clients and plan events independently.

Most of the work is office-based, but you'll also spend time on-site at event venues.

What tools/software/hardware does a corporate event planner use?

A corporate event planner uses a variety of tools including:

• Event management software: This helps with tasks like managing guest lists, RSVPs, budgets, and event timelines. Examples include Cvent, Eventbrite, and RegFox.
• Communication tools: These are used to collaborate with clients, vendors, and team members. Examples include email, phone, and project management platforms like Asana or Trello.
• Presentation software: Used to create event proposals, signage, and slide decks. Examples include Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, and Canva.
• Budgeting tools: Used to track and manage event expenses. Examples include Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or specialized event budgeting software.

What do I need to become a corporate event planner?

There are a number of ways you can become a corporate event planner, including:

• Bachelor's degree: While not always required, a degree in event management, hospitality, or a related field can give you a competitive edge and provide valuable knowledge and skills.
• Certifications: Professional certifications like Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) or Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.
• Industry experience: Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions in event planning can help you develop the necessary skills and industry connections.

What career paths are available?

There are several career paths available to you as a corporate event planner, including:

• Senior Event Planner: As you gain experience, you can take on larger and more complex events, managing a team of event planners and handling high-profile clients.
• Event Manager: In this role, you would oversee multiple events and manage the overall event planning process for a company or agency.
• Event Marketing Manager: This career path combines event planning with marketing expertise. You would focus on aligning events with a company's marketing strategies and goals.

Starting out, you can gain experience by interning or assisting with event planning tasks. As you progress, you can take on more responsibilities and work your way up through the ranks.

What jobs are similar to a corporate event planner?

• Wedding Planner: Similar to a corporate event planner, but specializing in planning weddings.
• Conference Planner: Focusing on organizing conferences and conventions.
• Trade Show Coordinator: Specializing in planning and managing trade shows and exhibitions.