Explore: Event Assistant

Hospitality, Tourism & Sport

Durban

Part-time

6 months

Brief description of the role

As an Event Assistant at a boutique hotel and conference centre, I support the events team in planning, setting up, and running various types of functions—ranging from corporate meetings to weddings and private celebrations. My role involves liaising with clients, assisting with venue setup and décor, coordinating suppliers, and making sure everything runs smoothly on the day of the event. I get to experience the behind-the-scenes work that goes into hosting professional, high-quality events and develop both hospitality and organizational skills in a fast-paced environment.

Key responsibilities and day to day tasks of the job

My daily tasks vary depending on the event schedule, but they generally involve both preparation and on-the-day coordination. I assist in setting up venues by arranging seating, décor, and technical equipment like projectors or microphones. I help ensure that all event materials—such as name tags, signage, or programs—are printed, packed, and placed correctly.

Before each event, I confirm bookings with suppliers, help with guest list check-ins, and liaise with kitchen or catering staff to coordinate food and beverage timing. During events, I welcome guests, guide them to their seats, assist speakers or performers as needed, and ensure that everything runs according to the event schedule. I’m also responsible for post-event tasks like packing down, collecting feedback, and compiling summary notes for the events team.

Skills most important for success in this role

Organisation & Time Management
Attention to Detail
Ability to deal with clients, guests, and suppliers professionally and courteously.
Clear verbal and written communication with internal teams and external partners.
Bringing unique ideas for event design, décor, and guest experiences.
Teamwork & Collaboration

School subjects / tertiary courses / required certificates

All these are recommended :)
Business Studies will give you a foundation in planning, coordination, and understanding how events support business goals.
Tourism is useful for understanding the hospitality and service industry
English – strong communication skills are key in this role, both written and spoken

Tertiary
Hospitality Management
Event Management
Public Relations or Communications
Tourism Management
Business Administration with Event Planning electives
Project Management (short course or module)

These can be taken at universities, universities of technology, or TVET colleges.

Kind of work environment (e.g Office based, remote, fieldwork etc)

My time is spent mostly in-person at the hotel or conference venue. It involves a mix of indoor and outdoor work, depending on the event setup. You’re often on your feet, moving between conference rooms, function halls, kitchens, and outdoor spaces.

It’s a hands-on, client-facing role that requires being physically present to coordinate logistics, assist guests, and support real-time event execution. You may also work evenings or weekends, depending on the event schedule.

Potential career progression opportunities in the field

Manage smaller events independently, from planning to execution.
Take full responsibility for larger conferences, weddings, and corporate functions.
Oversee the hotel’s entire banqueting and event services division, managing staff and client relationships.
Manage event marketing, partnerships, and promotions to attract new clients.
Run operations for a dedicated venue space (such as a wedding venue or conference centre).
Plan and coordinate events for businesses or organisations (corporate retreats, product launches, conferences).
Specialise in planning high-end social events or weddings, either in-house or as an independent consultant.
Start your own event planning business or open a boutique event venue.