Survey reveals that 86% of in-house event managers have suffered insomnia or burnout because of their work, but there are reasons for optimism in 2026 if better resource planning is prioritised.

A new study by corporate event production and management agency ClinkClink reveals that stress, insomnia and burnout continue to be deeply rooted in the UK events industry, despite warnings from a 2023 global report ranking event management as the third most stressful profession in the world.

Almost 80% of the 150 in-house event managers surveyed reported sleeping poorly in the week before an event, only 20% get anything close to a restful night, and 35% get less than four hours’ sleep before going on site.

Sleep problems appear to be part of a wider wellbeing issue. Of those surveyed by ClinkClink:
· 41% described the event planning cycle, which can run for weeks or months, as very or extremely stressful
· 86% have experienced physical symptoms of stress, including headaches, insomnia and burnout
· 23% say their workload regularly affects their mental health and personal life

Unrealistic timelines dominate as the leading source of pressure, followed by stakeholder demands, underfunding and insufficient internal support. 24% say they feel regularly under-resourced, yet 81% say they only occasionally bring in external support.
The data also shows that when external support is brought in, the impact is immediate: 78% report sleeping better, and 61% say their stress reduces somewhat or significantly.

Though stress levels are high, passion for the industry remains strong. 70% of event managers said that despite the stress, they haven’t considered leaving the industry – suggesting that if the right areas are addressed then big strides toward better industry wellbeing could be achieved for a committed workforce in 2026. Event managers echo that positivity, 64% are very or extremely optimistic that the industry can improve work-life balance this year.

Alex Pearn, ClinkClink founder, commented:
“The events industry continues to deliver extraordinary work and with this insight from in-house event managers it makes it much easier for the wider ecosystem – leadership teams through to external partners – to better support them in 2026.

What we love, is how much event managers love what they do. This isn’t about anyone wanting to leave the industry but about making it even better and more supportive for the people who want to be part of it.”

The full “Do you Sleep Well at Night?” data report can be downloaded here.

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