117-Conference and event planners

Job Title: 

Conference and event planners

Job Description: 

Organize and coordinate services for conventions, conferences, events, functions, banquets, workshops and seminars.

Summary: 

Conference and event planners plan, organize, promote and conduct events such as conventions, conferences, receptions, launches, shows, functions, meetings, workshops for a variety of organizations, communities and groups. They also, manage the event proceedings and liaise and coordinate with service providers to ensure the event runs smoothly and to schedule. They may develop business contact lists and networks and build and maintain client relations to improve opportunities to conduct events on behalf of clients. They may conduct marketing, client communications and information research and development with respect to potential clients. Maybe required to be licensed, registered or certified to be permitted to work by a government authority, agency or approved certifying body.

Tasks: 

Job activities and tasks include:

  • promoting conferences, conventions and trade shows to potential customers
  • responding to inquiries concerning services provided and costs for room and equipment hire, catering and related services
  • meeting with clients to discuss their needs and outlining package options to meet these needs
  • arranging and coordinating services, such as, conference facilities, catering, signage, displays, audiovisual and computer equipment, accommodation, transport and social events, for participants, logistical arrangements for presenters
  • organizing registration of participants
  • negotiating the type and costs of services to be provided within budget
  • overseeing work by contractors and reporting on variations to work orders
Knowledge: 

Specialist knowledge of principles, concepts and techniques in field of work and/or discipline

  • Higher knowledge of analyzing, planning, organizing and establishing policies, strategies, projections and/or conditions in the field of work and/or discipline
  • Broad knowledge of research principles and methods
  • Broad knowledge of high level governance of systems, processes and procedures including legislative, regulatory, standards, codes and conventions
  • Knowledge of recent developments in the field of work and/or discipline
  • Knowledge of principles, concepts and techniques in management, economics, finance, statistics and fiscal disciplines related to the field of work
  • Knowledge of political, government, legislative and regulatory systems related to the field of work
  • Knowledge of laws, regulations, standards codes and conventions of the UAE and specific Emirates related to the field of work and/or discipline and more general subjects including OHSE and cultural understanding and awareness
  • Knowledge of principles, concepts and techniques in sensitively responding to and observing complex ethical issues
  • Effect information technology, management information systems, management techniques and tools for optimal field of work performance
  • Skills in research, analysis, consultation and synthesis of information to evaluate policies, strategies, projections and/or conditions and develop suggestions and/or relevant options
  • Manage broad level relationships and coordinate related activities of respective stakeholders
  • Broad skills and experience in policy analysis, formulation and research, in a sensitive and confidential environment
  • Produce concepts and convey suggestions from the spectrum of development experience
  • Negotiation cultural sensitivity and diplomatic skills
  • Use of information, tools, resources to support complex work achievement
  • Work sensitively and effectively in a multi-cultural environment
  • Work with others to develop solutions to complex problems
  • Communicate with effect, and proven record of developing and maintaining active partnerships across an organization and with diverse external clients and other key stakeholders
  • Developed higher oral and written communication, interpersonal and representational skills, and a proven ability to use these skills to prepare and present clear, concise, high quality advice
  • Well developed leadership and effective organizational skills, with capacity to organize and sustain improvements within a team environment, as well as the ability to work flexibly and cooperatively as a member of a team
  • Personal drive and integrity, the ability to self-manage and the capacity to identify and control risks associated with change, as well comply with ethical standards
  • Achieving results within tight timelines, and capacity to implement new policy directions
  • Highly developed organizational skills, including the ability to organize priorities and meet tight deadlines
    • Work Context: 

    Typically work in offices and wherever events are held. It includes all types and forms of indoor and outdoor venues and facilities. They may be required to travel to events, meet clients and service providers locally, nationally and internationally. Work conditions may vary depending on the venue and type of event. The work may become stressful leading up to and during the holding of the event. May also, attend conferences and seminars to gain information and ideas.

    Education: 

    Diploma/Associate degree in business administration, events management, higher qualification or equivalent.

    Required Work Experience: 

    2 - 3 years and above

    Probable Employers: 

    Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, Western Region Development Council, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTC)

    Occupational Size: 
    More than 5,000 and less than 30,000
    Expected Earnings: 

    Industry average

    Projected Growth: 
    Good
    Alternate Titles: 

    Examples of job titles:
    Conference and event organizer - Conference planner - Wedding planner
    Examples of some related occupations:
    Event project manage - Event coordinator - Banquet planner - Convention Services Manager (CSM) - Conference Planning Manager - Conference Services Manager - Catering Manager - Events Manager - Conference Planner - Director of Conference Services - Conference Manager - Director of Events

    UAE Industry Groups: 
    Business, administration, tourism, retail and leisure service
    International Careers(ISCO): 
    Similar O*NET Careers (USA) : 
    Source Of Info: 
    Occupations and Careers Handbook for UAE Nationals(Copyright NQA ). Referenced from New York University, Abu Dhabhi