Tania studied both Event Management and Art History and is Head of Events at EPIC & CHQ in Dublin.
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What were the main 'career decision' milestones in your life so far?
I started in hospitality quite early. I studied event management, and after my first internship, I was hooked. It did not take long for me to realize that this was the path I wanted to follow.
Who are the people who most influenced your career direction?
Tourism was a natural choice for me. I come from a family with several members working in hospitality, and even before my degree, I spent summers helping out at the hotel reception where my mum worked. From the beginning, I felt privileged to be part of such a happy industry—serving people on holiday or hosting extraordinary events. After more than 20 years, I still cannot imagine doing anything else!
Describe a typical day?
As Head of Events, I am the primary point of contact for clients. I drive event bookings, manage client relationships, and coordinate with internal and external stakeholders. My day usually includes hosting site visits, showcasing EPIC & CHQ, visiting clients at their offices, responding to email inquiries, and reviewing business performance. We also have regular internal meetings to align on company culture and plan future strategies.
What are the main tasks and responsibilities?
As Head of Events, I am the primary point of contact for clients. I drive event bookings, manage client relationships, and coordinate with internal and external stakeholders. My day usually includes hosting site visits, showcasing EPIC & CHQ, visiting clients at their offices, responding to email inquiries, and reviewing business performance. We also have regular internal meetings to align on company culture and plan future strategies.
What are the main challenges?
One of the biggest challenges is ensuring that everyone is consistently motivated and delivering the highest level of service. We work with a lot of different teams and keeping that enthusiasm up across the board can be tricky, especially when external factors affect people’s moods.
What do you like most?
Meeting incredible people every day is a highlight. And seeing the joy on the faces of clients and guests when we have helped make their event special—that is the most rewarding part of it all.
Is there anything that isn't great?
One of the biggest challenges is ensuring that everyone is consistently motivated and delivering the highest level of service. We work with a lot of different teams and keeping that enthusiasm up across the board can be tricky, especially when external factors affect people’s moods.
What particular skills do you bring to your workplace?
First and foremost, be a good listener. Understand your clients' needs by asking the right questions. You also need confidence and in-depth knowledge of your business, as well as a strategic mindset. Always think ahead and anticipate potential challenges before they arise.
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I studied event management and later art history. Both have been invaluable—event management gave me the technical skills and knowledge, while art history helped me develop a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for beauty, both of which are crucial in event planning.
What is your education to date?
I studied event management and later art history. Both have been invaluable—event management gave me the technical skills and knowledge, while art history helped me develop a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for beauty, both of which are crucial in event planning.
What have been the most rewarding events in your career so far?
Meeting incredible people every day is a highlight. And seeing the joy on the faces of clients and guests when we have helped make their event special—that is the most rewarding part of it all.
What personal qualities do you have that helps you in your career?
First and foremost, be a good listener. Understand your clients' needs by asking the right questions. You also need confidence and in-depth knowledge of your business, as well as a strategic mindset. Always think ahead and anticipate potential challenges before they arise.
Does your job allow you to have a lifestyle you are happy with?
Absolutely! There are busy times when the work demands more from me, but it balances out with quieter periods. Plus, I get to meet so many interesting people and travel to new places, all of which contribute to the lifestyle I love.
What advice would you give to someone considering this job?
Be passionate about the work you do and the people you serve. It is a dynamic field, and no two days are the same, so embrace the variety and the opportunity to create memorable experiences.
What are the three most important personal characteristics required for the job?
First and foremost, be a good listener. Understand your clients' needs by asking the right questions. You also need confidence and in-depth knowledge of your business, as well as a strategic mindset. Always think ahead and anticipate potential challenges before they arise.
What kinds of work experience would provide a good background for this position?
Experience in event coordination and sales is crucial for this role.