 |
| Steve Martin, an event operator for
TRO, a leading marketing services agency. |
Event operator
Answers supplied by Steve Martin, an event operator
working for TRO, a leading marketing services agency established
in 1982 with offices in West London and Norwich. From their
Norwich Logistics base they deliver more than 1,000 events
every year on behalf of their clients, who include BMW, Land
Rover, Vauxhall, Orange, Volvo and Rolls Royce.
What does the job entail?
Event operators transport promotional stands, trailers and
resources to, from and in-between event venues. They are responsible
for preparing, checking and loading all equipment in preparation
for an event. Event operators may travel all over the UK and
Europe to events such as motor shows, track events, shopping
centre promotions, county shows and product launches where
they set up promotional stands and equipment.
What skills and qualifications are
needed?
The job requires a practical nature, good manual skills and
a good standard of driving with relevant entitlements and
no major convictions. Just as important though, you need to
be presentable and be able to work in a team and communicate
confidently with anyone.
What type of person will fit in?
Event Operators need to be energetic with an enthusiastic
and flexible attitude to work. Self-motivation and commitment
are key qualities, with an ability to get a job done to tight
and exacting deadlines. You must be able to work well in a
team environment as well as on your own initiative.
What are the pluses and minuses of the job?
The pluses are that the nature of the job requires you to
travel around the country meeting new people and visiting
different places, so you will never be bored. Many event operators
enjoy the variety, independence and diversity of work that
the job offers. The minuses are that the job is seasonal (April
to September) and hours can be long, often working in difficult
conditions, over weekends and bank holidays.
What opportunities exist for career
progression?
There are numerous opportunities for self-development and
career progression within event companies such as TRO, based
in Norwich. Every year the company puts event operators through
LGV, forklift, first aid, driver and electrical training,
as well as having an extensive three-day training programme
for all new event operators. Many seasonal event operators
have progressed to senior positions within the company.
What can I expect to earn?
The daily rate varies with experience — starting from
£59.22 day, including holiday pay. Plus generous overnight
and subsistence allowances. Companies also provide your uniform
and tools for you to carry out your job.
Any hints on getting a job in this
area?
TRO is currently recruiting for the 2004 season. If you would
like to find out more about event operator vacancies or any
other career opportunities within the TRO group please visit
their website on www.tro-group.co.uk
|
