AS AN entertainment coordinator, your job might involve planning activities and events that appeal to various audiences, from children’s plays to reggae concerts. Entertainment coordinators are known to plan and organise diverse events that are age-appropriate for a specific target audience and see that they run smoothly.
WHAT THE WORK INVOLVES?
A typical day for an entertainment coordinator may involve:
• Participating in planning meetings.
• Planning entertainment events.
• Locating and contracting entertainment acts.
• Creating, managing, and reviewing an entertainment budget.
• Supervising other staff members depending on your level.
• Evaluating entertainment performances.
• Socialising with event participants.
• Conducting and participating in all activities.
• Developing new entertainment ideas.
• Enforcing all health and safety policies and procedures.
• If in tourism and hospitality, in some cases planning guest weddings and standing in as a witness.
• Being responsible for the upkeep and decorations at the location.
With this job, you can expect a lot of fun and excitement, but be prepared for the long working hours, as you have to attend meetings, rehearsals and the event itself. This is not a desk job.
WHO IS THIS CAREER FOR?
Are you young (‘ish’ or at heart), energetic, sociable, people-loving and with great organisational skills – somewhat of a jack of all trade. Physical fitness is a must in order to effectively perform the tasks and maintain the energy levels needed for this position. As an entertainment coordinator, desk time will be limited and work will most likely cause you to be on your feet for many hours at a time. Having the ability to work with diverse populations and great communication skills are important. Being tech-savvy and having problem-solving skills are also key, as well as being able to relay information from upper management to employees effectively.
WHAT CAN I EARN?
You can earn a medium-level salary in this position, but salary varies in different businesses.
HOW DO I QUALIFY?
There are many short courses and associate degree programmes available. Degree programmes in tourism and hospitality, communications or public relations also include this option.
WHO OFFERS TRAINING IN JAMAICA?
• University of the West Indies
• The University of Technology
• University of the Commonwealth Caribbean
• Vocational Training Development Institute
• Excelsior Community College
• Information provided by CHOICES Career & Education Advice. For more information, advice or guidance, email Angela deFreitas, general manager of CHOICES Career & Education Advice, at info@choicesonlinejm.com. You can also send us your comments and suggestions on what you want to know more about.
