The job market for event planners in the United States

There are currently an estimated 116,700 event planners in the United States. The event planner job market is expected to grow by 10.9% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are event planners?

CareerExplorer rates event planners with a C employability rating, meaning this career should provide moderate employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 20,200 event planners. That number is based on 12,700 additional event planners, and the retirement of 7,500 existing event planners.

Are event planners in demand?

As globalization increases and businesses and associations continue to recognize the value of professionally planned meetings, conventions, and events, the demand for event planners is expected to grow. Despite the proliferation of electronic forms of communication, face-to-face interaction remains a vital tool of professional networking and cooperation. In fact, these alternative communication methods have connected individuals and groups that previously would not have collaborated. This has led to greater demand for these parties to interact in person and further fuel the need for planners of their meetings. Although the job outlook for this occupation is relatively positive, it is important to note that opportunities in the field fluctuate with economic activity. Downturns generally signify corporate budget cuts and a reduction in meetings necessitating travel, accommodation, and other related expenses. Some industries, such as healthcare, however, are less susceptible to these fluctuations. In the medical and pharmaceutical sectors, attendance at continuing education meetings is often required for employees to maintain their license. These sectors are also in a high-growth trend and projected to increase their meeting and convention activity. One particularly beneficial aspect of event planning experience is its transferability. Professionals in the field can almost seamlessly move to different industries in response to growth or declines in particular sectors of the economy. Those who have gained cross-industry experience by working with event planning companies that service clients from a variety of businesses should encounter superior prospects. Job seekers with a Bachelor’s Degree in hospitality, tourism, or event management and who have earned a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation will further enhance their employability. The Society of Government Meeting Professionals (SGMP) offers the Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) designation for planners who work for or contract with federal, state, or local government. While neither the CMP nor the CGMP certification is mandatory, both designations are looked upon very favourably in an occupation which attracts many applicants. Entry-level planners tend to focus on meeting logistics, such as attendee registration. Experienced planners are charged with client relations and contract negotiations. Advancement for planners generally means that they become responsible for larger and more complex events with larger budgets. They may also become independent consultants.

What’s the supply of event planners?

The event planner industry is concentrated in California, New York, Texas

Event Planner job market by state