VMA introduces 'Accredited Venue Manager' program

The Venue Management Association (Asia and Pacific) [VMA] has announced the implementation of its new Accredited Venue Manager Program.

The program will form part of a two tier achievement program which includes:

1. The new Accredited Venue Manager (AVM) designed to recognise extensive venue management experience, contribution and qualifications for middle to senior managers;

2. The internationally recognised Certified Facilities Executive (CFE) under the auspices of the International Association of Venue Managers at the higher level.

Accredited managers will be able to place the designation AVM or CFE after their name as appropriate.

The AVM program has been designed to act as a 'stepping stone' towards the higher achievement of the designation of CFE. Becoming an AVM will be acknowledged as a stand alone achievement, but will also assist greatly in taking the next step towards becoming a CFE.

The objective is to enhance career prospects and encourage VMA members to take part in personal development as venue management professionals. The AVM program includes acknowledgment of formal education and industry knowledge, experience and skills.

The AVM accreditation will provide professionals with peer recognition while also identifying them as a practising Venue Manager with a high level of accomplishment.

The new accreditation program will simplify the accreditation process, increase industry relevance, create more take-up and provide a pathway to the internationally acknowledged CFE accreditation.

There are four parts to the AVM accreditation process:

1. Eligibility Criteria for eligibility, include:

Education

Experience in the venue management industry
Graduation from the Venue Management School
Attendance at Venue Management Congress
Other relevant training and conferences attended
Articles published

2. Referees:

Two written references are required from Senior Managers within the Venue Management Industry. Please advise your referees that they will be asked to submit a written reference, answering questions that will be forwarded by the VMA. Referee questions will be provided to the two Referees nominated by the candidate following receipt of the successful assignment.

3. AVM Assignment Undertake an assignment:

Overall philosophy of managing venues

Personnel and HR
Marketing
Finances
Maintenance
Security
Event production
Food and Beverage

4. Interview:

An Interview will be held with representatives of the Professional Development Committee following successful transition, by the applicant, through the first three processes.

Members achieving the accreditation will be recognised each year at the Congress Dinner.

VMA members will be encouraged to consider AVM achievers in their recruitment.

Professionals wanting to gain recognition for their achievements within the venue management industry and become an AVM need to complete an Entry Criteria Scoresheet to determine their eligibility.

For more information on AVM contact Karen Windram, VMA General Manager, call 07 3870 4777, E: Karen.windram@vma.org.au, www.vma.org.au/learning-and-development

22nd June 2012 - INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATION FOR WIN CENTRE MANAGER