Conference and Events Organiser

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Conference and Events Organiser. This occupational qualification will enable creative assistance and coordination of professional, feasible and innovative events. A qualifying learner will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the event industry and put that knowledge into practice in coordinating and executing quality small, medium and micro events to a level of professionalism expected by the client. The learner will contribute positively towards supporting the event industry as a part of Southern Africa's services sector. A learner who has achieved this qualification will be capable of integrating a range of self-organisation and life-long learning skills within a context to produce a professional event that adheres to the high quality standards set by the South African tourism and hospitality industry. In addition, expansion into other sub-sectors of tourism and hospitality is also possible by furthering their learning, practice and career within the events industry, either at further levels or in other areas of practice. A qualified learner will be able to: • Determine objectives and anticipate the exact needs of the client, advise on certain possibilities to obtain the clear and concise brief and ensure that the needs of the client are met as per given specifications. • Demonstrate an understanding of entrepreneurship in relation to events management and coordination as a business venture. • Compile a budget and cost estimation to source quotations for related services. • Communicate effectively using appropriate methods to maintain effective customer relationships according to organisational standards and customer service of internal and external stakeholders. • Collect create and maintain a database of relevant data and contact information of preferred service providers from all key areas that support the event. • Apply basic knowledge of relevant legislative, governance, policies and procedures pertaining to the organisation to ensure compliance. Conduct site inspections to determine suitability for specified event according to applicable health and safety regulations and cancellation policies. • Plan, negotiate, organise, coordinate and control internal tasks and responsibilities according to set objectives and maintain records of event aspects including financial document. • Ensure that a particular event is fit for purpose, displaying a client-driven approach and sensitivity to different expectations and requirements of customers within a culturally diverse society. • Apply basic project management principles and practices to manage an event.

The Events and Conferencing industry is dynamic and continually evolving thereby creating a demand for professional services within the international arena contributing to new venture creation and employment opportunities. This industry makes a significant contribution to both the South African national economy and to the global economy. The growth in the industry is amongst others, resultant from South Africa's involvement in international business, conferencing, sports and other events. In Africa, South Africa has four of the top ten most popular convention cities: Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg and Pretoria. The Occupational Certificate: Conference and Events Organiser is designed to provide learners with skills that will enable them to access opportunities in the South African Tourism Conference Industry. This qualification aligns to the standards required by Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry relating to Events Management. It also provides learners with the planning skills and management perspective needed when venturing into a career in New Venture Creations or contracted employment by large companies, hotels, local authorities, charities, specialist conference companies. The aim of this qualification is to provide a solid industry related foundation, availing opportunities for the individual to enter this employment sector with the applicable background and skills in order to embark on a variety of career choices in this industry.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record. RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: • Level 4 with Communication.

• Determine objectives and anticipate the exact needs of the client, advise on certain possibilities to obtain the clear and concise brief and ensure that the needs of the client are met as per given specifications.
• Demonstrate an understanding of entrepreneurship in relation to events management and coordination as a business venture.
• Compile a budget and cost estimation to source quotations for related services.
• Communicate effectively using appropriate methods to maintain effective customer relationships according to organisational standards and customer service of internal and external stakeholders.
• Collect create and maintain a database of relevant data and contact information of preferred service providers from all key areas that support the event.
• Apply basic knowledge of relevant legislative, governance, policies and procedures pertaining to the organisation to ensure compliance. Conduct site inspections to determine suitability for specified event according to applicable health and safety regulations and cancellation policies.
• Plan, negotiate, organise, coordinate and control internal tasks and responsibilities according to set objectives and maintain records of event aspects including financial documents.
• Ensure that a particular event is fit for purpose, displaying a client-driven approach and sensitivity to different expectations and requirements of customers within a culturally diverse society.
• Apply basic project management principles and practices to manage an event.