Event Project Manager: missions, skills, training, salary and career development

In a context where the importance of communication and event management is paramount, the role of Event Project Manager has become indispensable. This professional plays a key role in the planning, organisation and management of events, ensuring that each project is carried out efficiently and in line with expectations.

Description of the job of Event Project Manager

The Events Project Manager is responsible for designing and implementing events projects for various occasions such as seminars, conferences, product launches and other corporate or public events. He or she acts as a true orchestral conductor, coordinating the various stages of the project, from conception to completion, including the management of service providers and the supervision of teams.

What is the role and remit of the Event Project Manager?

Project management

The Event Project Manager oversees all aspects of project management, drawing up the schedule, defining objectives and setting deadlines. They are responsible for managing event projects from start to finish, ensuring that deadlines and budgets are met.

Coordination of service providers

You select and negotiate with service providers (caterers, technicians, entertainers, etc.) to ensure the quality of the services provided. They are also responsible for customer relations, ensuring that customers' needs and expectations are met.

Communication strategy

They help to define the event's communication strategy, including digital communication and communication media. They often work in collaboration with communications agencies to maximise the impact of the event.

Monitoring and evaluation

The Event Project Manager is responsible for monitoring the progress of the project, evaluating its impact and carrying out post-event reporting . He analyses the results in order to improve future events.

Tools and technologies used by the Event Project Manager

Project management tools

Tools such as Trello, Asana and Microsoft Project are essential for planning and tracking tasks, assigning responsibilities and managing deadlines.

Communications and marketing software

For digital communication, it uses tools such as Mailchimp, Hootsuite and CRMs to manage marketing campaigns and relations with participants.

Event technologies

Platforms such as Eventbrite or Bizzabo are used to manage registrations and ticketing, while solutions such as Zoom or Hopin can be used for virtual events.

What skills do you need to be a good Events Project Manager?

Professional skills:

• Project management: Mastery of project management techniques and planning tools.
• Coordination and logistics: Ability to organise and coordinate the various logistical aspects of an event.
• Communication: Skills in digital communication and public relations.
• Negotiation: Ability to negotiate with service providers and manage contracts.

Personal skills:

• Versatility: Ability to manage several projects simultaneously.
• Creativity: Ability to propose innovative concepts and solve problems creatively.
• Team spirit: Ability to work as part of a team and motivate colleagues.
• Responsiveness: Ability to react quickly to the unexpected and adapt to change.

What are the current challenges facing an Events Project Manager?

Digitalising events

With the rise of digital technologies, Event Project Managers need to master the tools and platforms for webinars and virtual events if they are to remain competitive.

Risk management

They must be able to manage the unexpected and put in place fallback solutions to ensure the success of the event.

Respecting budgets

Strict control of budgets is crucial to avoid overspending and ensure the profitability of the event.

How do I become an Events Project Manager?

Education and training

To become an Event Project Manager, it is recommended that you have a degree at Bac+3 to Bac+5 level in fields such as communications, marketing orevent management. The following courses are particularly popular:

• BTS Communication or Licence Professionnelle in event project management.
• Bachelor's degree in event communications or marketing.
• Master's degree in project management or communication.

EM Normandie also offers a MSc International Events Management that trains specifically for careers in the events industry, providing a comprehensive course tailored to the requirements of the sector.

Professional experience

Previous experience as a project manager, assistant project manager or in a communications-related position is often required. Initial experience in event organisation is a considerable asset.

What are the career prospects for an Events Project Manager?

• Progression to Events Director or Events Communications Director.
• Opportunities in large companies, event communications agencies or local authorities.
• Possibility of becoming an events management consultant or setting up your own agency.
• Transition to event project management or event programme coordination.

What does an Event Project Manager earn?

The salary of an Event Project Manager varies according to experience, the size of the company and the sector of activity:

• Beginner: Gross monthly salary (approx.): €2,500 - €3,500
• 2-5 years' experience: Gross monthly salary (approx.): €3,500 - €4,500
• 5+ years' experience: Gross monthly salary (approx.): €4,500 and more

What does an Event Project Manager do?

A variety of employers:

Event Project Managers can work in various types of organisation, including:

• Communications and events agencies.
• Companies in all sectors with event organisation needs.
• Public institutions or non-profit organisations.
• Marketing agencies and advertisers.

Main areas of expertise:

• Marketing and communications: Planning events to promote products or services.
• Public relations: Organisation of conferences, seminars and other public relations events.
• Technology: Management of digital and virtual events.
• Culture and leisure: Organisation of festivals, exhibitions and other cultural events.

In summary

The job of Event Project Manager is essential for orchestrating the success of events, whether physical or digital. As the conductor of operations, they must combine organisational, creative and interpersonal skills to guarantee memorable and successful experiences. It's a dynamic and varied role that offers many career opportunities in a variety of sectors, requiring strong organisational skills, versatility and an ability to deal with the unexpected.