How to Break into Events: Skills, Steps and Opportunities for Aspiring Event Managers.

The events industry is thriving — dynamic, creative, and constantly evolving. From landmark conferences and luxury weddings to festivals, sporting spectacles and corporate showcases, the UK events sector is one of the most diverse career landscapes available today.

Yet with so many pathways, roles and opportunities, it’s not always clear how to take that first step.

At The Event School London, we believe in opening doors. Whether you're a career starter, a career changer or someone seeking to elevate their position in the industry, here’s how you can break into events — strategically, professionally, and with purpose.

Explore the Landscape

Understanding the breadth of the industry is your foundation. Event careers span far beyond what most imagine — from Event Directors to Wedding Planners, Festival Producers to Venue Sales Managers.

There are also supporting roles in marketing, logistics, design, AV, hospitality and more. Discover the full spectrum of the many fields in the event industry at The Power of Events and start shaping a vision of where you’d like to be.

Upskill with Purpose

Investing in your education signals to employers that you’re serious.

Whether you're exploring event management for the first time or seeking to specialise in a niche — such as sports events, venue coordination or luxury weddings — targeted learning gives you both the knowledge and confidence to progress.

At The Event School London, we offer part-time and full-time options, both in London and virtually, designed with today’s industry needs in mind.

Explore our courses at eventschool.london

Get Hands-On Experience

There is no substitute for experience. Volunteer at local festivals and charity events, join paid event crew teams, or take short-term placements with staffing agencies. This is where you build not only your skill set, but your professional network.

Start here:

• Simply Volunteer London

• We Are Event People

• Staffing People

• Envisage Promotions

Search with Intention

Use specialist event recruitment agencies like Live Recruitment or Talent Circle. Broader job platforms such as Caterer.com also feature roles in event operations, planning and hospitality.

Be Present in the Industry

Attend industry events — not just as a guest, but as a curious professional-in-the-making. Events like The Meetings Show, International Confex, or The Event Production Show offer unparalleled opportunities to meet key players, discover new trends, and immerse yourself in the sector.

Explore upcoming events:

• The Meetings Show

• Event Tech Live

• International Confex

Leverage Your LinkedIn

A strong online presence, particularly on LinkedIn, can be a game-changer. Showcase your training, share insights from events you’ve attended, and connect with professionals across the industry. Your digital footprint should reflect your aspirations and evolving expertise.

Learn more: The Power of a Strong LinkedIn Profile

Think Sector-Specific

Different event sectors require different approaches. Whether you’re drawn to weddings, corporate events, music festivals, or major sporting fixtures, it’s worth researching the organisations, associations and agencies that operate in those niches.

We’ve curated sector-specific resources here.

In Summary

Breaking into the events industry is about more than luck — it’s about strategy, connection, and investing in your potential. The sector is calling for talent with fresh ideas, professional skills, and the drive to make a difference.

At The Event School London, we’re here to help you do just that.