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Hannah Smyth , Events Programme Coordinator
Tourism & Hospitality

Hannah Smyth , Events Programme Coordinator

Name: Hannah Smyth

Role/Position: Programme Coordinator

Business Name: Event Partners Ireland

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Hannah Smyth , Events Programme Coordinator

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How did you go about getting your current job?

Hannah Smyth , Events Programme Coordinator

I received a place on a Fáilte Ireland Graduate Programme, I worked with the Dublin Region Team supporting a number of large-scale projects that contribute towards Dublin as a destination.

I absolutely love to travel and discover new destinations. Equally, I love the island of Ireland and feel that it has so much to offer. Therefore, I gain fantastic satisfaction in being able to provide others with ultimate itineraries to discover Ireland get the most out of their trip in order to leave Ireland feeling like they have immersed themselves in the culture and natural beauty.

What are the main tasks and responsibilities?

Hannah Smyth , Events Programme Coordinator

I create bespoke programme itineraries for international clients when they enquire about Ireland as a destination for an incentive trip based on their requirements and in line with their budgets.

I complete proactive sales activity, for example, providing content for ezines and supporting logistics in organising webinars, FAM trips and sales trips.

I continually update the company’s CRM system with any new contacts or opportunities.

What are the main challenges?

Hannah Smyth , Events Programme Coordinator

The rising costs across accommodation, dining and activities in Ireland are making it increasingly challenging to offer clients exceptional value for their incentive trips. While the country’s unique charm and premium experiences remain a draw, balancing budget constraints with the high standards expected by incentive groups has become a delicate task.

 

What do you like most?

Hannah Smyth , Events Programme Coordinator

The programme’s feature many suppliers across the island of Ireland, from hotels, to transport providers, to activities, to restaurants and venues. Therefore, I am constantly discovering new suppliers and keeping up to date with what they offer, so that I can offer client’s the best possible experiences to suit the needs of their groups. I enjoy learning about new Irish suppliers and it brings me joy when I can offer a high quality service to guests travelling to Ireland. Equally, I am passionate about supporting Irish businesses and love to offer them to potential clients.

 

What aspects of your education have proven most important for your job?

Hannah Smyth , Events Programme Coordinator

I completed a work placement during my time in education. This has been invaluable for me. I worked in the marketing and events team of a software company to help organise two of their annual company events. I was given a lot of responsibility, along with excellent guidance which really boosted my confidence and provided me with the foundations that I needed in order to proceed with my career post studies.

 

 

Does your job allow you to have a lifestyle you are happy with?

Hannah Smyth , Events Programme Coordinator

Yes, usually I work regular hours Monday – Friday. Occasionally, weekend work or longer hours are required when on site, however, this is always exciting work and my favourite part of my role when I am out meeting new people and working with fantastic Irish suppliers.

 

What advice would you give to someone considering this job?

Hannah Smyth , Events Programme Coordinator

The Irish tourism product is a diverse one, this role requires knowledge of multiple elements of Irish tourism. Therefore, it is so important to keep up to date with trends, offerings and be proactive about developing your knowledge of what is on offer in Ireland. With great knowledge of what is on offer, this will enable fantastic creativity and flexibility when developing itineraries for clients.

What are the three most important personal characteristics required for the job?

Hannah Smyth , Events Programme Coordinator

Attention to detail – With incentive trip planning, often you are looking after every detail for the client. Therefore, it is so important to ensure that you know about all aspects of their requirements. Often, you will foresee requirements that they are unaware of. It is these little touches that help to build successful programmes and create the ultimate client satisfaction.

Relationship Management – Day-to-day, the role requires constant communication with suppliers and clients. It is imperative to create and maintain relationships with suppliers, as they are what make an incentive programme a success. An excellent relationship with a supplier ensures that you can work with them to create the best services for clients. Equally, it is important to build rapport with clients in order to establish trust, understand their needs and ultimately create the most amazing experiences for their guests travelling to Ireland

What kinds of work experience would provide a good background for this position?

Hannah Smyth , Events Programme Coordinator

Roles where you are constantly speaking to multiple stakeholders, this will allow you to build confidence in speaking to different kinds of people and how to adjust your communication styles in order to build lasting relationships.

Experience in budget management, this will help to build confidence in creating budgets for clients in line with their needs and what numbers they are working with. Budgets can be meticulous and require great attention to detail; practise and experience will enable more accurate management of such.

What is your current job title?

Hannah Smyth , Events Programme Coordinator

Programme Coordinator at Event Partners Ireland

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