What are the roles and responsibilities of event managers?

The event manager plays a critical role in the planning, coordination and subsequent success of any event. This is a complex task as it often requires the event managers to assume the role of creative director, human resource manager, operations coordinator, trouble shooter, public relations officer, licensee, accountant, health and safety officer, and master of ceremonies.

With these multiple roles and significant responsibilities, event managers generally need help. Coordination and consultation with key stakeholders is not only advisable but essential if an event is to be safe and successful.

The success of events is often assessed against economic, social, health, and safety measures. The measurements generally include the impact the event has on patrons, event staff, police, emergency services and the community.

If alcohol is sold or available then the behaviour of patrons, in and around an event's licensed or permitted area, becomes the responsibility of the licensee. Penalties under the Liquor Act apply for breaches of the law.

Unruly and disruptive patron behaviour can be an indication of intoxication, which may result in penalties for licensees under the Act. Also, a number of licensees have been successfully sued for failing to demonstrate the necessary duty of care towards their patrons. An event manager may also be liable for an incident resulting from a poorly organised event or irresponsible serving of alcohol.

There is increasing government and community awareness of the legal responsibilities of event mangers, specifically in relation to duty of care, negligence and workplace health and safety issues.

Event managers need to be aware of these responsibilities and, as much as possible, ensure that their event management plans account for the health, safety and comfort of event patrons and staff, and minimise any disruption and harm to the community.

 Next - The event management plan