Equestrian Event Manager – Planning, Executing, And Thriving
If you enjoy entertaining, planning events, and are super organised, perhaps a career as an equestrian event manager is on the cards?
A career as an equestrian event manager combines your organisational prowess and your knack for creating memorable experiences! From organising delicious delicacies to contacting celebrities and managing promotional and advertising campaigns… A passion for horses may also help, although this is not strictly necessary for events where horses are not present.
So, what does it take to become an equestrian event manager? In this guide, we provide a comprehensive overview of a career in this field. Seasoned professional looking to transition or aspiring individual fascinated by the world of event management – this guide walks you through the key skills, responsibilities, and duties associated with the role.
We also provide training and certification information, possible career paths, and the type of working environment you can look forward to.
What Is An Equestrian Event Manager?
An equine event manager is an events manager who specialises in planning, coordinating, and executing functions and events within the horse industry. These events could range from high-profile functions associated with international events like the Olympics, Melbourne Cup, and World Cup Show Jumping events to local exhibitions and also social gatherings. Regardless of the level of function, event managers play a key role in ensuring events run seamlessly, without incident, and are enjoyed by attendees.
Equestrian Event Manager Vs Equine Show Organiser
Although the role of equestrian event manager sounds like it is associated with horse shows, there is a difference. An event manager typically focuses on the broader management of social events and functions. This includes organising catering, dealing with VIPs, and so on. Some of these events may be associated with horse shows and events.
Conversely, a show organiser organises horse shows and horse events. While they may also be involved with the social aspect of the event, it’s not their sole focus, and often not their primary role either. Big horse shows, like Royal Shows for example, may in fact have both a show organiser and an event manager.
Equestrian Event Manager Key Skills, Responsibilities, And Duties
What personal skills do you, as an aspiring event manager, need? What types of responsibilities and duties can you expect on the job? a versatile set of personal attributes and skills to perform well in this role because it isn’t for everyone.
Skill Requirements For Equestrian Event Managers
Firstly, this is not a career for everyone. If you prefer the company of horses to people, for instance, then it’s probably not your calling!
So – what personal attributes will help you in this career? Topping the list is a bright bubbly personality and a talent for interacting and dealing with people. You’ll also need an innate ability to remain organised, focused, and collected in the face of organised chaos! Further to this, the following will also help.
Excellent communication skills – both written and verbal
Effective communication skills are a key attribute for this career. You will be liaising with event stakeholders including participants, sponsors, suppliers, and the wider community.
Exceptional organisational skills
Organisational ability is at the core of event management. Event managers must be able to coordinate all the various elements of a function seamlessly, from logistics to catering and also entertainment.
Project management skills
Equally important is a keen eye for detail and an ability to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously. From meticulous planning, resource allocation, and deadline management – they’re all your responsibility as an equine event manager!
Problem-solving abilities
Unexpected challenges often arise during an event but your quick thinking, problem-solving skills, and adaptability are up to the task.
Ability to work autonomously
While collaboration is key, equine event managers are also capable of working independently. You can make important decisions, and solve problems on the fly.
Leadership abilities
You also have good leadership skills, and an ability to delegate responsibilities.
Negotiation skills
Your adept negotiation skills will help you deal with various stakeholders, from vendors to sponsors, VIPs and participants.
A knack for numbers
Although you may not be a financial whiz, you still have enough financial acumen to manage budgets, secure sponsorship, and optimise resources.
Time management skills
Events usually have tight schedules. This is where your excellent time management skills will stand you in good stead as an equine event manager.
Interest in horses
Finally, an interest in horses and an understanding of horse sports, and horse people, can set you apart as an equine event manager.
Key Responsibilities and Duties of Equestrian Event Managers
As an equestrian event manager, you will shoulder a range of responsibilities. Ultimately, your job is to ensure the success of each event you organise. While job specifics may vary depending on employer or function, there are still many common responsibilities and duties.
For example, as an equine event manager, you will orchestrate every aspect of an event from conception to completion. You’ll secure suitable venues, collaborate with facility owners, and manage logistics to create ideal event settings. Then there is the responsibility of building and maintaining strong relationships with horse owners, sponsors, vendors, and regulatory bodies.
Financial success is often a key element of any event. To ensure this, you will actively seek out, and manage, sponsorships. To this end, you will develop creative marketing strategies, attract participants, and engage the community. This will involve leading marketing campaigns, coordinating with agencies, and distributing materials to partners. There may also be media coverage and press interactions to manage.
You are also a team leader. You assign responsibilities, and ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards. This will involve proactively identifying and addressing potential risks to prevent disruptions, and create a safe event..
Finally, as an event manager, there are detailed event schedules to create, equipment to manage, and participant and spectator safety to oversee. You may also be called upon to arrange accommodations, catering, and amenities for attendees.
Event Manager Certifications and Licenses
Equine event managers ideally gain qualifications and certifications in general event management before moving into the horse industry. The skills are transferable across industries. Functions are functions regardless of the interests and hobbies of the attendees!
The following certifications and diplomas are available.
Diploma of Event Management
Provider: Various RTOs
Details: The training course equips individuals with event-related skills and a comprehensive understanding of event management processes, enabling them to effectively coordinate various event operations.
Advanced Diploma of Event Management
Provider: Various RTOs
Details: At a senior level, the course represents the role of individuals who utilize specialized managerial skills and extensive knowledge of event management processes. This empowers them to conceive, plan, and successfully stage events with a high level of autonomy.
Executive Certificate In Event Management Courses (Business And Public Events)
Provider: Event Training Australia
Details: Specifically designed for individuals already employed in event planning and delivery, the course aims to enhance their skill and knowledge base, providing a solid foundation for career growth in the dynamic field of event management.
One and Two-Day In-house Event Management Workshops.
Provider: Event Training Australia
Details: The course effectively upskills staff engaged in event planning through customized workshops, focusing on essential aspects like event project planning, risk management, sustainability planning, and thoughtful event design.
Successful Event Management
Provider: Evolve WA
Details: Tailored for beginners and individuals with limited professional experience, the course provides a gateway to the world of event management, offering foundational knowledge and skills necessary for success
Certificate III In Events
Provider: WA TAFE
Details: Participants gain practical knowledge and skills essential for successful event coordination, including facilitating reservations, organizing and supplying food and beverages, managing ticketing, providing entry and seating advice, fostering teamwork, and ensuring workplace health and safety.
Event Basics
Provider: College of Event Management
Details: The course offers an insightful introductory perspective into the working life of an event manager, providing valuable information for individuals considering a career in event management.
Event Express Diploma pathway
Provider: College of Event Management
Details: For those seeking entry into the events industry, the course provides an entry-level event management skill set along with access to Event Talent Agency, offering opportunities for practical experience and networking.
Diploma of Event Management
Provider: College of Event Management
Details: Geared towards those desiring a comprehensive learning experience, the course provides a full event qualification. Participants gain a high level of skills and knowledge, preparing them for successful careers in event management.
Event Management
Provider: ACS Distance Learning
Details: The course enables participants to organise and manage a variety of events, including parties, concerts, exhibitions, weddings, and celebrations to develop comprehensive skills for diverse event coordination.
Bachelor of Commerce (Event Management)
Provider: Various universities
Details: Provides comprehensive knowledge in the events industry, covering diverse areas such as marketing, communications, sponsorship, service experience management, human resource management, funding, finance, sport venue, business events, research, event staging, logistics, and operations management.
Bachelor of Business (Event Management)
Provider: Various universities
Details: Provides solid business knowledge and expertise. The course focuses on event management and marketing, equipping participants with the skills needed to navigate the industry successfully.
Career Paths for Equestrian Event Managers
Event management is a versatile field. The skills and experiences you gain organising events are transferable across sectors. However, event managers who specialise in the horse industry can enjoy a unique career trajectory with various opportunities for growth and specialisation.
You may for example start out as an event coordinator (most entry-level professionals in this field do). In this role, you will gain experience in organising functions such as breed showcases, horse competitions, and industry exhibitions.
From here, you can branch out into a range of specialist event management areas. Marketing, venue management, festival management, event consultant, corporate event planner, trade show manager, or even run your own event management company. Alternatively, consider getting involved in tourism event management. Become an industry educator. Focus on providing event technology, or even specialise in organising eco-friendly events.
These diverse career paths offer equestrian event managers the flexibility to follow your interests.
Work Environment of Equestrian Event Managers
Most equine event managers do not directly work with horses or organise horse shows (stay tuned for our career guide for Horse Show Organisers). However, the role nevertheless revolves around orchestrating events within the equestrian industry.
The work environment of an equine event manager is a blend of office-based tasks, on-site coordination, and community engagement. You may spend part of your day in your office dealing with administrative tasks.
You’ll also attend meetings with stakeholders, check in with on-site activities, and attend community functions to garner support and promote the event. In addition, you will probably be on-site during the event itself, overseeing logistics, ensuring schedules are followed, and generally keeping an eagle eye on proceedings.
This is a dynamic, fast-paced working environment that requires mental dexterity, and the ability to multi-task.
Salary Range for Event Managers in Australia (2024)
The salary for Equine Event Managers in Australia varies based on factors such as experience, location, and the scale of events managed. As of 2024, the average annual salary for an equine event manager in Australia ranges from $70,000 to $100,000 AUD.
Managers overseeing large-scale, international events may earn higher salaries. Conversely, those managing smaller, local events may fall within the lower end of the spectrum.
Job Outlook for Equine Event Managers in Australia
The job outlook for Equine Event Managers in Australia is positive. We have a vibrant equestrian community and horse-related events are growing in popularity. As more individuals and organisations recognise the value of professionally managed equine events, the demand for skilled equine event managers is expected to increase.
Overview of a Career as an Equestrian Event Manager
In summary, a career as an Equine Event Manager offers a dynamic and fulfilling path for individuals passionate about horses and event management. Success in this field hinges on a combination of organisational skills, effective communication, and an in-depth understanding of the equestrian world.
