How to Become an Exhibition Manager (Curating Success and Art!)

If you’ve always been intrigued by the idea of curating and organizing exhibitions that captivate audiences, or wondered what it takes to become an Exhibition Manager, you’re at the right place.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to follow to launch your career as an Exhibition Manager. We’ll discuss:

The skills you need.
The education that can help you succeed.
How to secure a job as an Exhibition Manager.

So, whether you’re a novice to the world of art and exhibitions or an experienced individual looking to enhance your career, stay tuned.

We’re about to unfold the blueprint to become an Exhibition Manager.

Let’s get started!

Contents show

Steps to Become an Exhibition Manager

Step 1: Understand the Profession

Before embarking on the path to becoming an Exhibition Manager, it’s crucial to understand the profession in depth.

An exhibition manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and managing various events and exhibitions.

This includes liaising with clients, coordinating with various departments, overseeing the design and layout of exhibition spaces, ensuring the timely and efficient set-up and break-down of events, managing budgets, and more.

This role requires strong organizational and managerial skills, along with the ability to handle stress effectively, as managing exhibitions often involves juggling multiple tasks and responsibilities simultaneously.

Strong communication skills are also critical, as the job involves frequent interactions with clients, suppliers, event planners, and staff.

You should also be aware that the role often requires working outside of normal hours, including evenings and weekends, especially during the planning and execution stages of an exhibition.

Understanding these facets of the profession will help you decide if this is the right career path for you.

Moreover, it’s beneficial to attend various exhibitions and trade shows to get a feel for the environment, observe how events are conducted, and understand the intricacies involved in putting together successful exhibitions.

This firsthand experience can provide valuable insights into the realities of the profession.

Step 2: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in a Relevant Field

To become an Exhibition Manager, it is generally required to have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

This could be in business management, marketing, arts management, or museum studies.

These programs provide a strong foundation in the administrative and management skills necessary for the role.

In these programs, students can learn about various aspects of exhibition management such as project management, exhibition design and planning, marketing strategies, and public relations.

Students also learn about negotiation, financial management, and strategic planning, which are crucial for managing exhibitions.

In addition to classroom learning, it’s advantageous to gain practical experience through internships at museums, galleries, trade shows, or other venues.

This provides an opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge gained during the course and acquire hands-on experience in the field.

It’s also a chance to network with professionals in the industry, which can lead to job opportunities in the future.

It’s important to note that some Exhibition Managers may start in other roles within the industry, such as assistants or coordinators, and work their way up to a management role.

Therefore, gaining a solid foundation in the industry and continually upgrading skills through further education or professional development is crucial.

Step 3: Gain Experience in Event or Exhibition Management

After earning your degree, the next step in becoming an Exhibition Manager is to gain practical experience in the field of event or exhibition management.

This could be in various forms such as internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work in museums, galleries, trade shows, conferences, or any event planning organization.

Learning the ropes of the industry is crucial and this will involve handling tasks such as planning and coordinating events, managing budgets, negotiating contracts, liaising with vendors, and more.

During this time, you’ll also learn how to handle unforeseen issues that can arise when planning and executing an exhibition, such as dealing with last-minute changes or managing the expectations of various stakeholders.

Additionally, this is an excellent opportunity to build a network of contacts in the industry, which can be beneficial for your future career.

Some exhibition managers start their careers as coordinators or assistants in larger organizations, and gradually move up the ranks as they gain experience.

Also, take the time to understand different types of exhibitions and what makes each unique.

This will aid you in tailoring your management and planning approach to each particular event.

Remember, the aim is to gain as much knowledge and experience as you can – this is what will help set you apart as a professional Exhibition Manager.

Step 4: Volunteer or Intern at Museums, Galleries, or Trade Shows

Gaining practical experience in the field is crucial to developing the necessary skills for becoming an Exhibition Manager.

Volunteering or interning at museums, galleries, or trade shows can provide you with valuable exposure to the industry and enable you to understand the day-to-day tasks of an Exhibition Manager.

Volunteering opportunities can be found at local museums or galleries, where you may assist in curatorial tasks, visitor services, or even help with the organization of new exhibits.

Internships, on the other hand, can provide more structured experience and are often available through university programs or directly from larger museums, galleries, and trade show organizations.

In these settings, you’ll learn how to interact with different stakeholders like artists, vendors, and the public.

You’ll also gain experience in setting up, managing, and breaking down exhibits, understanding how to maximize space utilization and visual appeal.

Both volunteering and interning will help you build up a network of contacts within the industry, which could prove beneficial when seeking future employment.

Keep in mind that this step often requires patience and dedication, as many of these positions may not be paid.

However, the experience and connections you gain will be invaluable in your professional development.

Step 5: Master Skills in Project Management and Budgeting

As an Exhibition Manager, you’ll be involved in planning and executing various events, which requires strong project management and budgeting skills.

You may be in charge of coordinating a team, managing timelines, and ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently.

This involves a lot of organization, communication, and leadership skills.

Take courses or gain experiences that help you master project management principles.

This could involve learning how to set project goals, managing resources, and understanding how to create and implement a project timeline.

In addition, you’ll also be responsible for creating and managing budgets for each exhibition.

It’s important to have a strong understanding of financial management to ensure you can keep the exhibition within budget while still achieving the desired impact and results.

Taking courses in financial management or business can be beneficial, but you can also gain these skills through practical experience.

Try to get involved in projects or roles that require budget management and financial decision-making.

Being proficient in these areas will make you a more effective Exhibition Manager and can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs.

Step 6: Enhance Interpersonal and Networking Skills

As an Exhibition Manager, your role requires a lot of interaction with different people including clients, vendors, and staff.

Therefore, it is crucial to have strong interpersonal skills.

This will help you to communicate effectively, resolve any issues promptly, and foster good relationships with all stakeholders involved in an exhibition.

Attending workshops or courses focused on improving communication and leadership skills can be very beneficial.

Networking is also an essential part of an Exhibition Manager’s role.

Building a wide network of industry contacts can lead to new opportunities and collaborations.

You should attend industry events, conferences, and trade shows to meet potential clients, learn about the latest trends, and stay updated with new technologies and practices in the exhibition industry.

Additionally, joining professional associations or online communities for exhibition managers can provide valuable insights and also offer opportunities for professional development.

By constantly developing your interpersonal and networking skills, you can improve your job prospects and advance your career as an Exhibition Manager.

Step 7: Get Familiar with Exhibition Technologies and Design Softwares

As an Exhibition Manager, you will need to familiarize yourself with a variety of exhibition technologies and design software.

This will include understanding how to use computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D modeling software, as these tools are often used in the planning and design stages of an exhibition.

In addition, knowledge of audio-visual (AV) technology is crucial as exhibitions often incorporate AV elements.

You may also need to understand how to use project management software, budgeting software, and CRM systems, as these tools can assist with the logistical planning and management of an exhibition.

In this digital era, exhibitions are not just physical but also virtual.

Familiarity with virtual reality or augmented reality platforms is a plus as more exhibitions are now taking place online.

These platforms can provide interactive experiences to visitors who cannot physically attend the exhibition.

You can learn to use these technologies and software through various online courses, tutorials, or by gaining hands-on experience during internships or entry-level roles.

Remember, being technologically savvy will not only help in planning and managing exhibitions but also make you stand out in the competitive job market.

Step 8: Join Professional Organizations for Networking and Learning Opportunities

Being an Exhibition Manager involves constant learning, networking, and keeping up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices.

Joining professional organizations can greatly help in this regard.

Professional organizations often provide members with educational resources, professional development opportunities, and networking platforms.

You can attend workshops, seminars, and conferences that these organizations often hold to enhance your understanding of the industry.

They also provide opportunities to meet with other professionals in the same field, which can lead to job opportunities, partnerships, or simply gaining insights from experienced peers.

In the exhibition industry, some of the prominent organizations you might consider joining include the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), the Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia (EEAA), and the Museums Association.

Each organization offers a unique perspective and resources specific to their region or scope.

By actively participating in these organizations, you can continue to learn and grow, and stay informed about the latest trends, technologies, and regulations in the exhibition industry.

This can not only help you perform your current role more effectively but also open doors for career advancement.

Remember, one of the key benefits of professional organizations is the opportunity to engage with other industry professionals.

Networking is a crucial aspect of any career, and it’s even more important in a role like an Exhibition Manager, where connections can often mean the difference between a good exhibition and a great one.

Step 9: Obtain Certification in Exhibition Management

Obtaining certification in exhibition management can be a crucial step if you’re looking to further validate your skills and expertise in the field.

Certifications such as Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) or Certified Trade Show Marketer (CTSM) are highly regarded in the industry and can open up new career opportunities.

To earn these certifications, you typically need to have a certain amount of experience in the industry and complete a series of courses covering various aspects of exhibition management, such as strategic planning, exhibition program development, marketing, operations and more.

Upon successful completion of these courses, you’ll need to pass an examination to earn your certification.

Not only does getting certified provide you with a professional edge, it also boosts your credibility and competence to potential employers.

Furthermore, it allows you to stay updated with the latest trends and best practices in the industry, which is essential in this rapidly evolving field.

Remember, the process of getting certified may require a significant investment of time and money, but the benefits in terms of career development and opportunities make it a worthwhile endeavor.

Step 10: Apply for Jobs as an Exhibition Manager

After gaining the necessary skills and qualifications, the next step is to start applying for jobs as an Exhibition Manager.

Use job boards, networking events, and social media platforms like LinkedIn to find potential job opportunities.

Make sure your CV is updated, highlighting your skills and experiences that are relevant to the role, such as planning, organizing, managing exhibitions, and team leadership.

Also, tailor your cover letter for each application to demonstrate your interest in the organization, providing specific examples of how your skills and experiences align with the job description.

If you have a portfolio of your work or a record of exhibitions you have managed in the past, ensure you include this in your application.

Preparing for interviews is also a crucial step.

Practice responding to potential interview questions and familiarize yourself with the company’s mission and values.

Showcase your knowledge about the industry and discuss the exhibitions you have managed, the challenges you overcame, and the success you achieved.

Remember, you may not land your dream job immediately, but gaining experience in any exhibition management role will help you progress in your career.

Keep learning, network with professionals in the industry, and keep yourself updated with the latest trends in exhibition management.

Step 11: Continuously Update Your Knowledge about Industry Trends

As an Exhibition Manager, it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments within the industry.

This could include advancements in exhibition technology, changes in audience behavior, evolving marketing strategies, or shifts in design trends.

You can achieve this by attending industry events and expos, subscribing to industry-specific publications, and following influential people within the sector on social media.

Joining professional organizations can also provide opportunities to learn from and network with other professionals in the field.

It’s also important to keep track of feedback from exhibitors and visitors, as this can provide valuable insights into what works and what doesn’t in the world of exhibitions.

By continuously updating your knowledge and skills, you’re ensuring you stay relevant in the industry and can adapt to changes effectively.

Consider participating in professional development or continued education courses to further your knowledge and skillset in the industry.

In this digital age, staying updated on virtual and hybrid event technology is also important, as more exhibitions are moving towards incorporating these elements.

Remember, the exhibition industry is constantly evolving, and as an Exhibition Manager, it’s your job to evolve with it.

Step 12: Consider Further Education or Specialization.

In the role of an Exhibition Manager, you may want to enhance your expertise and credibility by pursuing further education or specializing in a specific field within the industry.

This could be anything from a Master’s degree in Arts Administration or Museum Studies, to specialized courses in Exhibition Design or Curatorial Practice.

By pursuing further education, you can gain advanced knowledge in managing exhibitions, curating art collections, and understanding the nuances of running a successful museum or gallery.

This will also provide you with a competitive edge and open up opportunities for higher roles within the industry.

Furthermore, choosing a specialization can help you focus on a particular type of exhibition or genre of art.

For example, if you are passionate about contemporary art, you may want to specialize in exhibitions that feature modern artists.

Or if you are more interested in history, you may choose to specialize in exhibitions that showcase historical artifacts or periods.

This step of specialization not only enhances your career prospects but also allows you to work in an area that you are genuinely passionate about.

Whether you are just starting or are already an established Exhibition Manager, continuous learning and specialization can significantly impact your career trajectory.

Exhibition Manager Roles and Responsibilities

An Exhibition Manager oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of events such as art exhibitions, trade shows, and conventions.

They are responsible for every aspect of event preparation and presentation.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

Event Planning

Design and plan events according to customer requirements.
Ensure all necessary arrangements such as layout, logistics, and schedule are planned and finalized.
Coordinate with clients, vendors, and team members to ensure a successful event.

Vendor Management

Select and negotiate with vendors such as decorators, caterers, and audio-visual teams.
Ensure vendors deliver as per the contract and to the highest standard.

Logistical Coordination

Oversee the transportation, installation, and dismantling of exhibition materials.
Manage staff and volunteers during the event setup and execution.
Ensure all safety regulations are adhered to during event setup and execution.

Marketing and Promotion

Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote the event.
Coordinate with the marketing team to create promotional materials.
Use various platforms, including social media, to market the event and attract attendees.

Customer Service

Ensure all attendees, clients, and vendors have a positive experience.
Address any issues or complaints in a professional and timely manner.

Budget Management

Create and manage the event budget.
Negotiate contracts to get the best value for services.
Monitor expenses and make adjustments as necessary to stay within budget.

Documentation

Document the event planning process, including vendor contracts, schedules, and layouts.
Maintain records of event expenses and revenues.

Post-Event Evaluation

Evaluate the success of the event based on attendance and feedback.
Prepare and present post-event reports and analysis.

Business Development

Network and build relationships with potential clients and sponsors.
Identify new opportunities for events or partnerships.

Compliance

Ensure all events comply with relevant laws, regulations, and insurance requirements.
Ensure all health and safety regulations are followed.

Continuous Learning

Keep up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.
Attend relevant seminars, conferences, and workshops.

What Does an Exhibition Manager Do?

Exhibition Managers typically work for museums, art galleries, private corporations, or any institutions that hold regular exhibitions.

They can also work as freelance consultants or for exhibition management firms.

They collaborate with artists, curators, technicians, and other staff members to plan, coordinate, and execute exhibitions.

They are often in charge of managing the logistical aspects of an exhibition, such as the transportation and installation of artwork, ensuring the safety and security of exhibited items, and maintaining a conducive environment for visitors.

Their job also involves developing and managing exhibition budgets, scheduling exhibition timelines, sourcing for exhibition materials, and supervising the set-up and dismantling of exhibitions.

Exhibition Managers may also be responsible for promotional activities related to the exhibition, such as marketing campaigns, press releases, and social media management.

In addition, they often oversee visitor experience, ensuring that the exhibition is accessible and engaging to the public.

This may involve coordinating public programs like tours, workshops, or lectures related to the exhibition.

Lastly, Exhibition Managers often handle administrative tasks such as paperwork, contracts, and compliance with legal and ethical guidelines.

They ensure all activities are conducted within the framework of the institution’s policies and objectives.

Essential Exhibition Manager Skills

Organizational Skills: An Exhibition Manager is responsible for the planning, set-up, and execution of exhibitions, which requires exceptional organizational skills, including time management and prioritization.
Communication: Exhibition Managers interact with a range of stakeholders such as exhibitors, visitors, contractors, and staff. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are necessary to liaise effectively and ensure smooth operations.
Project Management: Managing an exhibition is essentially a project, requiring skills in budgeting, scheduling, risk management, and resource allocation.
Leadership: As a team leader, an Exhibition Manager must guide, motivate, and supervise staff, ensuring all tasks are completed on time and to a high standard.
Problem-Solving: No exhibition runs without hiccups. An Exhibition Manager needs to anticipate potential issues and quickly develop effective solutions when problems arise.
Negotiation: Exhibition Managers often negotiate contracts with suppliers, sponsors, and exhibitors. Strong negotiation skills can lead to better deals and enhanced relationships.
Knowledge of Exhibition Trends: Being aware of industry trends, technological advancements, and visitor expectations can help create exhibitions that are engaging and relevant.
Marketing: Promoting the exhibition to drive attendance requires skills in digital marketing, public relations, and the use of social media platforms.
Financial Acumen: Budget management is a critical aspect of an Exhibition Manager’s role, including preparing budgets, controlling costs, and ensuring profitability.
Attention to Detail: An Exhibition Manager must oversee every aspect of the exhibition, from the layout design to the final teardown, requiring a keen eye for detail.
Technical Knowledge: A basic understanding of the technical aspects such as lighting, sound, and staging is beneficial to coordinate effectively with technical teams.
Customer Service: Providing excellent service to exhibitors and attendees is crucial for the success of an exhibition. Good interpersonal skills and a customer-focused approach are essential.
Venue Management: This includes understanding the venue’s capacity, safety regulations, and logistic requirements.
Flexibility: Exhibition Managers must be adaptable and flexible to handle unexpected changes or challenges.
Teamwork: Collaborative skills are crucial as Exhibition Managers often work with diverse teams and partners to execute a successful event.

Exhibition Manager Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Assistant Exhibition Manager

As an Assistant Exhibition Manager, you are in the initial stages of your career, learning the ropes and gaining an understanding of the intricacies of the exhibition industry.

Your tasks may include assisting with event planning, coordinating with suppliers, and helping with marketing efforts.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

Understand the Industry: Learn about different exhibition formats, markets, and audience preferences.
Communication Skills: Develop strong communication and negotiation skills to liaise effectively with different stakeholders.
Attention to Detail: Pay attention to every detail to ensure smooth execution of exhibitions.

The Ascent: Exhibition Manager

With experience, you will grow into the role of an Exhibition Manager.

This role involves managing the entire exhibition process, from planning to execution.

You’ll work closely with clients, suppliers, and attendees, ensuring a seamless exhibition experience for all.

Here’s how to thrive:

Project Management: Enhance your project management skills to handle multiple exhibitions and ensure their successful execution.
Networking: Build strong relationships with vendors, clients, and industry professionals.
Budget Management: Develop skills to manage budgets effectively and negotiate contracts.

Reaching New Heights: Senior Exhibition Manager

As a Senior Exhibition Manager, you’ll play a leadership role, overseeing the work of other Exhibition Managers and making key decisions that affect the success of the exhibitions.

To excel in this role:

Leadership: Lead and inspire your team to meet exhibition goals.
Strategic Planning: Develop and implement strategies to enhance exhibition experiences and increase visitor footfall.
Problem Solving: Be ready to face and overcome challenges that may arise during the planning and execution of exhibitions.

Beyond the Horizon: Exhibition Director and Beyond

In the later stages of your career, you may transition into roles such as Exhibition Director or even CEO of an Exhibition Company.

These roles involve a higher level of strategic decision-making and responsibility:

Vision and Strategy: Drive the vision and strategy for exhibitions, identifying new markets and opportunities.
Management Skills: Oversee large teams, managing their performance and development.
Innovation: Stay abreast of industry trends and innovate to maintain a competitive edge.

Pinnacle of Success: CEO of an Exhibition Company

At the peak of your career, you may become the CEO of an Exhibition Company.

In this role, you will be responsible for shaping the company’s direction, making strategic decisions, and ensuring the company’s growth and profitability.

Exhibition Manager Salary

Entry-Level Exhibition Manager

Median Salary: $35,000 – $50,000 per year
Entry-level exhibition managers typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold a bachelor’s degree in museum studies, art history, or related fields. They are responsible for assisting in the organization and execution of exhibits.

Mid-Level Exhibition Manager

Median Salary: $50,000 – $70,000 per year
Mid-level exhibition managers have 2-5 years of experience and often take on higher-level responsibilities such as planning, coordinating, and implementing exhibitions, and may manage junior staff members.

Senior Exhibition Manager

Median Salary: $70,000 – $90,000 per year
Senior exhibition managers possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for overseeing all aspects of exhibition planning and execution, from conceptualization to final display. They also supervise other team members and may have a role in budgeting and fundraising efforts.

Exhibition Director / Museum Director

Median Salary: $80,000 – $120,000+ per year
These roles require substantial experience, managerial skills, and deep knowledge of the arts and exhibits. Responsibilities may include strategic planning, budget management, and liaising with artists, donors, and stakeholders.

Exhibition Manager Work Environment

Exhibition Managers typically work in museums, art galleries, and convention centers, but they can also find roles within universities, corporate organizations, and retail industries where exhibitions are a key component of their marketing strategy.

Exhibition Managers usually work regular office hours, but due to the nature of exhibitions, they may also need to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays to oversee the setup, running, and dismantling of exhibitions.

They often work in a team with curators, designers, technicians, and other professionals and spend a significant amount of time liaising with artists, sponsors, and vendors.

Their role requires them to be on-site during the exhibition period, which may involve travel and working in different locations.

After gaining substantial experience and contacts in the industry, an Exhibition Manager may choose to work independently as a freelance consultant or even start their own exhibition management company.

FAQs About Becoming an Exhibition Manager

What qualifications do I need to become an Exhibition Manager?

Typically, an Exhibition Manager requires a bachelor’s degree in business, event management, or a related field.

Some employers may also prefer candidates with a master’s degree in these fields.

Along with formal education, practical experience in event planning or project management is highly beneficial.

Skills such as excellent organizational abilities, time management, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving are also crucial.

Do I need any specific training or certification to become an Exhibition Manager?

While there’s no formal certification requirement to become an Exhibition Manager, various professional training programs and courses can enhance your skills and employability.

These could include project management, event planning, or hospitality management courses.

Also, knowledge of certain software like event registration systems or digital marketing tools could be advantageous.

Is practical experience important for an Exhibition Manager?

Absolutely, practical experience is crucial for an Exhibition Manager.

This experience can come from working in related roles, such as event planning, marketing, public relations, or hospitality.

Internships in these areas can also provide valuable experience.

It’s particularly beneficial to have experience coordinating large-scale events or exhibitions, managing budgets, and working with a variety of stakeholders.

What does the career progression look like for an Exhibition Manager?

An Exhibition Manager can progress to higher roles such as Senior Exhibition Manager, Exhibition Director, or Event Management Director with experience and demonstrated success in managing large-scale exhibitions.

Some may also choose to specialize in certain types of exhibitions or events, or move into related fields like marketing or public relations.

What are the working conditions for an Exhibition Manager?

Exhibition Managers typically work in an office setting, but they also spend a significant amount of time at event venues.

They often have to travel, sometimes internationally, depending on the location of the exhibitions.

The role can be quite demanding, especially as the exhibition date approaches, with long hours, tight deadlines, and high-pressure situations.

However, it can also be rewarding and exciting, especially when the exhibition is successful.

Is the Exhibition Manager role in demand?

Yes, the demand for Exhibition Managers is expected to grow, especially as industries recognize the value of exhibitions and events for networking, promoting products and services, and generating business.

Opportunities can be found in a variety of sectors, including arts and culture, education, technology, and tourism.

The increasing trend towards virtual and hybrid events due to the COVID-19 pandemic has also created new avenues for Exhibition Managers.

Conclusion

And so, we arrive at our destination.

Embarking on the journey to become an exhibition manager is indeed a unique challenge, but the rewards are truly inspiring.

With the right combination of skills, education, and tenacity, you’re on the path to making a significant contribution to the world of events and exhibitions.

Remember, the journey might be demanding, but the potential for achievement is boundless. Your creativity and management skills could lead to the creation of the next groundbreaking exhibit that revolutionizes how we experience art, history, and culture.

So, take that initial step. Immerse yourself in knowledge. Connect with industry professionals. And most importantly, never cease to innovate.

Because the world is waiting for what you can curate.

And if you need tailored advice on launching or advancing your career in exhibition management, do explore our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool offers personalized guidance and resources to help you navigate your career path in the most effective way.

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