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Where are our grads now? Q & A with grad Jessica Newmarch

Head shot of CoEM grad Jessica with cheeky smile

Like many of our students, Jessica has happily made the transition from a career in hospitality to a career in events, taking only one month to secure an event coordinator role in the corporate sector. Read on to see the next instalment of Where are our grads now?

Let’s have a quick look at Jessica’s career path so far…

► Food and Beverage Attendant

► Supervisor

► Banquet Sales Executive

► Event Coordinator with GEMS Event Management

► NOW Senior Event Coordinator with GEMS Event Management (congrats Jess)

Let’s find out how Jessica fared while studying and how she made the transition from a career in hospitality to a career in event management.

Why event management?

I have always wanted to study event management but thought it was too hard. While working in hotels I saw the different functions being booked and thought to myself, ‘Why can’t I do that?’ When looking for event organising roles, I noticed that you needed a qualification for most roles so decided it was in my best interest to study event management.

What program did you chose?

I chose the Event Manager program as it was great to be able to go through the course with a group of class mates as a class. I enjoyed the different ways of learning content as it wasn’t all reading text. There was a variety of content types; videos, case studies, imagery and webinars. At all times I was able to work closely with my course coordinator to ensure I was on the right track which was a great thing.

I noticed that you needed a qualification for most roles so decided it was in my best interest to study event management

Where are you currently working?

I’m an Event Coordinator with GEMS Event Management

How long did it take you to secure a job in events after graduating?

One month.

Why do you feel you got the job over others?

I had the right attitude, willingness to learn and assist with all tasks. By the end of the course I had a sound understanding of events and what is needed to make an event successful.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Each day can be very different depending on the events we have coming up. My day can consist of any or all of these tasks:

  • Management of registrations
  • Setup and monitor EventsAIR system for conferences
  • Liaise with organising committee in regards to presentations, keynote speakers etc,
  • Answer delegate enquiries
  • Confirm sponsors and exhibitors
  • Source and liase with venues
  • Create event collateral including powerpoints, workbooks, program, Website.
  • Follow project plan to ensure all tasks are delivered on time
  • Assist other coordinators with their events
  • Talk with delegates to ensure they are enjoying themselves

Phew! How satisfied are you with your current role?

I’m extremely satisfied with my current role.

What’s a highlight of the job so far?

It was an amazing experience to work on the Transplant Nurses Association Conference 2018. I worked closely with the organising committee and between all of us we put together a successful and enjoyable event for a group of people (nurses) who do so much for our community. We had fantastic feedback from our client who told us what an enjoyable experience it was. Our team exceeded all expectations which was amazing.

Seated crowd at indoor corporate event

SEPLA-CON 19. A GEMS event for 1,400

Did the course contribute to you securing this position?

The fact that I studied EventsAIR while studying put me at a distinct advantage over other candidates. Another advantage was having my Major Project as I was able to show the interviewer such a comprehensive document which showed that I understood the workings of an event from start to finish and exactly how the process is managed and implented.

I love that every event is different and no two days are the same.

While studying how valuable was the Industry Engagement Program?

The Industry Engagement Program (IEP) was very valuable as it allowed you to see what is happening in the industry and the many different avenues there are in events. IEP also allowed me to network with other event professionals including other CoEM Students who were part of other classes.

What other valuable lessons did you take away from the course?

  1. The way events run from start to finish.
  2. Looking at how an event is put together including all the pieces needed to make the final product
  3. Learning about how the components of an event correlate with the next step in the event cycle
  4. The importance of the project plan and working closing with your team
  5. Industry contacts, how powerful they are and how they can help you with your event
  6. How the industry is growing rapidly and fast changing

Do you have any advice for anyone wanting a career in events?

Take every opportunity that comes your way. Where you think you will end up in events isn’t always where you end up – I never thought I would enjoy being a PCO (Professional Conference Organiser). But here I am!

Welcome reception for Stormwater 2018 at ANZ Stadium

Welcome reception for Stormwater 2018 at ANZ Stadium

What do you love about events?

I love that every event is different and no two days are the same. Also, being on-site at events, talking with the delegates and seeing my hard work come together is something that’s great. Watching everyone enjoy themselves is wonderful but the bit I enjoy the most is the organisation of events and the structure of events to create a successful event.

What does a future in events look like for you?

I plan to continue to grow in the PCO world and to learn as much as I can to challenge myself by working on events in different states (maybe international). I will continue to ensure my events are successful and an enjoyable experience for all.

Want to see more of our Student Stories? READ MORE HERE >>

Or see what courses we’re offering now. SEE MORE HERE >>

Graduates from College of Event Management are job-ready! If you’re wanting to find out more about a career in event management there’s plenty of information on our website about our specialised event courses. Any of our course advisors will be more than happy to chat to you on 02 9280 4912 or you can contact us HERE >>

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