The arts and entertainment industry requires all types of skilled personnel, not only performers, actors and musicians but also agents, accountants, assistants, editors, managers, engineers, producers, lawyers, administrators and executives
Employment in this industry is extremely competitive though it can be very rewarding and lucrative for successful individuals. Qualifications depend on the specific position; executives, managers and administrators often need at least a bachelor’s degree and industry-specific knowledge/experience whilst performers, editors and producers are expected to have ample training in the respective art or craft
Salaries for persons working in the entertainment industry span the entire spectrum; the average figure for all positions in the industry is £23,000; those above £33,000 are considered to be in the high range and the lower end sees some figures below £20,000. However, several positions offer higher earning opportunities: those working as an actor have an average per annum figure of about £30,000; musicians earn an average of £47,000 per year, whilst industry lawyers see an average annual figure of nearly £70,000.

Entertainment area covers different sectors including film, drama, TV, music, among others. Professionals working on this area may perform work behind scenes or direct work. Examples of people working on this industry are entertainment managers. They are required to plan and organise events in discos and cabarets, street festivals, children´s activities, competitions, firework displays, etc.

Entertainment managers usually perform many of the following tasks:
• Arranging publicity.
• Negotiating fees.
• Researching suitable performers.
• Finding venues.
• Contacting agents.

• Being able to work under pressure.
• Having good communication skills.
• Being flexible and versatile.
• Being able to work alone or with a team.
• Having knowledge about safety requirements.
• Having interpersonal abilities.
• Being confident and reliable.
• Having interest in the entertainment industry.
• Being able to work on different tasks at the same time.
• Having negotiation skills.

Entertainment manager jobs are open for applicants having suitable degrees or candidates without academic qualifications but having enough relevant work experience. Among relevant degrees and Higher National Diplomas for this area are drama, music, marketing, production, business studies, hospitality, and event management. These courses require two A levels/three H grades and five GCSE’s/S grades (A-C/1-3) as a minimum.

There are training schemes offered by various organisations including on-the-job learning that may provide formal qualifications such as City and Guilds in Recreation and Leisure, Institute of Leisure and Amenity Management qualifications, NVQs in Arts and Entertainment, among others.