Examining the Career Trajectory of Event Presentation Producers

Event presentation producers play an important role in delivering successful events; however, their career trajectories remain unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to examine the career trajectory of event presentation producers. To collect data, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 event presentation producers. Findings showed that participants went through five common career stages: exploration, establishment, career break, continued advancement, and disengagement. Additionally, a combination of situational and personal determinants shaped participants’ career progression. Situational determinants included proximity to major events, the maturity level of the profession, and networks and connections, while personal determinants included the sheer joy, personal and professional fulfillment, spillover effects, and cultural intelligence. Findings contribute to the literature on career development within the event context and provide implications for how the event sector can support the advancement of event presentation producers’ careers.