People can build rewarding careers and “great livings” in events, but the opportunities are not always visible to the next generation.
The events industry must do more to show young people that they can build rewarding, long-term careers within the sector.
That is the message from Serkan Uzunogullari, Senior Lecturer in Tourism, Hospitality and Events at the University of Sunderland, and Paul Borg, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Newcastle – Stephenson Quarter.
Speaking in the latest episode of the hotel’s Talking People with Paul Borg podcast, the pair discuss why many people still “fall into” events and how the industry can make its career pathways clearer.
“Events can be someone’s first job, a part-time job or a graduate role, and then develop into a career in management, operations or one of many other areas,” Serkan said. “It has a low entry point but a very high ceiling.
“However, students don’t always see that pathway. I think we have to put our hands up and admit that we are still underselling it.”
Paul began his own hospitality career behind a bar before becoming a hotel General Manager. He believes the industry should speak more confidently about the opportunities it offers.
“There can be long days and unsociable hours, and we should be honest about that. However, the reward from delivering an event can be huge,” Paul Said. “There is real potential to progress and make a great living, and I don’t think we talk about that enough.”
The episode also explores how education providers and employers can work together to prepare and retain new talent.
The University of Sunderland works with employers through mentoring, placements, live projects and site visits. Several of its students and graduates have joined Crowne Plaza Newcastle, starting in areas including reception and food and beverage before progressing into conference, events and management roles.
Serkan said universities can teach event design, planning, marketing and audiovisual production, but cannot fully recreate the pressure of live delivery.
“We can expose students to controlled pressure and give them opportunities to organise smaller events,” he explained. “What we cannot replicate in a classroom is the pace, emotion and experience of managing hundreds or thousands of people.
“That is why universities and employers must work closely together. Graduates may understand the theory, but employers need to meet young talent halfway and help them develop operational confidence.”
Paul concluded: “We need more event and hospitality professionals to go into schools, colleges and universities, talk openly about their own careers and show young people where an entry-level role can lead.
“But this cannot stop at telling them the opportunities are there. Employers need to open their doors through placements, mentoring, workplace visits and part-time roles – and then give young people the training and support to progress. If we want the talent our industry needs in the future, we all have a part to play in developing it now.”
Talking People with Paul Borg is a six-part podcast series featuring event leaders, creatives, educators, media professionals and emerging talent from across the meetings and events industry.
The episode featuring Serkan Uzunogullari is available now via Talking People with Paul Borg.
