Exhibition organizer

What does a trade fair organizer do? – Tasks and work environment

A trade fair organizer is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing various types of fairs, exhibitions, and large events. Tasks include booking venues, managing logistics, marketing the event, and ensuring exhibitors and visitors have a positive experience. Contact with partners, suppliers, and authorities is a central part of the work, along with budget management and scheduling. The pace is often fast, and the work environment varies between office work and presence on the trade fair floor during busy periods.

Salary development over time

The salary development for trade fair organizers has shown clear fluctuations over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,400 SEK per month, which increased sharply to 41 600 in 2023, corresponding to an increase of over 24%. In 2024, the average salary stabilized at 40 000, representing a slight decrease of about 4% compared to the previous year. This variation can largely be explained by the pandemic's effects on the events industry, where recovery in 2023 led to a temporary salary boost. The demand for qualified organizers remains high, but competition for assignments and changing budgets at organizing companies have influenced salary trends over the past year.

Trade fair organizer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,800 SEK/month (female, post-secondary education, various sectors)
• Highest salary: 44,000 SEK/month (male, private sector employee)
• Hourly wage: 240 SEK/hour (part-time, average 166 hours/month)
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 38 600 SEK/month, men 44,000 SEK/month (women 88% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location, with higher averages in metropolitan areas.

Education and qualifications

To work as a trade fair organizer, a post-secondary education in event management, marketing, or similar fields is usually required. Practical experience from the event industry is highly meritorious, and many employers value project management experience and good organizational skills. Several pathways into the profession are possible, but a combination of formal education and practical work provides the best prospects.

• Post-secondary education: YH or university programs in event, tourism, marketing (1–3 years)
• Internships: Internships or trainee positions at event or fair companies are recommended
• Courses: Short courses in project management, communication, and digital marketing are advantageous
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with focus on economics, media, or service
• Certifications: Opportunities for certificates in event management and safety

Common benefits and compensations

Trade fair organizers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, pension schemes, and flexitime. Other common compensations include access to company cars when needed, the possibility of remote work during quieter periods, and bonuses linked to successful completion of major projects. Training grants and professional development are also common within the industry.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a trade fair organizer is relatively high, especially in larger cities where many seek to work in the event industry. One of the biggest challenges is consistently delivering successful events despite tight schedules and constrained budgets. The industry is sensitive to economic fluctuations and quickly affected by changing market conditions. Additionally, high demands are placed on flexibility and problem-solving skills, as unforeseen situations often arise during planning and execution of fairs. Success requires good stress management and working systematically under pressure.

Tips for aspiring trade fair organizers

To succeed as a trade fair organizer, good communication skills and a natural ability to build and maintain relationships with clients and partners are important. A structured approach makes it easier to keep track of many details and deadlines simultaneously, and strong organizational skills are crucial for smooth project flow. Flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to changes are key qualities, especially when unforeseen challenges occur. Being solution-oriented and thinking creatively helps find new ways when problems arise. Engagement and a genuine interest in the event industry also make the work more enjoyable and successful.

Key facts about trade fair organizers

• Education level: Post-secondary education in event, marketing, or similar (1–3 years)
• Work environment: Varies between office and event venues, often fast-paced
• Work form: Commonly project-based employment with varying working hours
• Demand: High, with 550 available jobs in the profession
• Gender distribution: Women constitute a majority but have lower average salaries than men

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a trade fair organizer can advance to roles such as project manager, event director, or responsible for larger international fairs. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas such as digital events, marketing, or business development. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the future outlook is stable, with continued demand for experienced organizers, especially in larger cities and growth regions. The industry is rapidly evolving with increased digitalization and demands for sustainable events, opening new skills and career paths. The total number of advertised positions, currently 550 in the profession, indicates good employment opportunities even for recent graduates.

Frequently asked questions about trade fair organizers

• What does a trade fair organizer earn?
  - The average salary for a trade fair organizer is 40 000 SEK per month, with variations depending on gender and experience.
• Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 38 600 SEK per month, which is 88% of men's average salary of 44,000 SEK.
• What education is required to become a trade fair organizer?
  - Post-secondary education in event management, marketing, or tourism is recommended, often combined with practical experience.
• What is the job market like for trade fair organizers?
  - Demand is high with 550 available jobs according to recent statistics.
• What are the job responsibilities of a trade fair organizer?
  - Responsibilities include planning, logistics, marketing, and executing trade fairs and events.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, with experience, one can advance to project manager, event director, or specialize in new areas.
• What is the hourly wage for trade fair organizers?
  - The hourly wage for a part-time trade fair organizer averages 240 SEK per hour.