Special Events Coordinator - (Expired Job)

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, located in Bentonville, Arkansas, is a prestigious institution dedicated to celebrating the American spirit through a unique fusion of art and nature. Founded by philanthropist and arts patron Alice Walton, the museum opened to the public in 2011 as a public, non-profit charitable organization with the mission of actively collecting, exhibiting, interpreting, and preserving outstanding works that illuminate the American heritage and the boundless artistic possibilities inherent in the culture of the United States. Admission to the museum is free, underscoring its commitment to accessibility and community engagement. Alongside Crystal Bridges, the Momentary serves as its contemporary art satellite in downtown Bentonville, having opened in February 2020. The Momentary is an innovative space dedicated to visual, performing, and culinary arts, focusing on championing contemporary art and exploring its role in everyday life within an international context. Together, these institutions reflect a comprehensive approach to American art, both historical and contemporary, and are deeply rooted in the cultural and social fabric of the region and beyond.

The Special Events Coordinator position at Crystal Bridges is a full-time, non-exempt role within the Operations & Administration division, specifically in the Hospitality department. Reporting directly to the Manager of Special Events, this role carries the important responsibility of supporting the Special Events team by promoting and coordinating private and internal events. These events contribute significantly to Crystal Bridges' overall mission by creating memorable experiences for guests and fostering connections within the community. The coordinator will engage in client interaction through both in-person and virtual planning sessions, as well as meal tastings, requiring superior customer service skills and the ability to manage multiple projects in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. This position demands excellent organizational, time management, and follow-up skills alongside proficiency in using the Momentous database to schedule and track event particulars. A positive, professional attitude and the flexibility to work evenings and weekends are essential to meet the demands of this role.

Primary responsibilities include designing and planning events such as weddings, corporate functions, community engagement programs, and VIP or stakeholder gatherings, always working within the client's expectations and budget. The coordinator acts as the liaison with service providers and vendors, ensuring smooth and successful event execution. Collaboration with various internal departments—such as Culinary Services, Education, Advancement, Security, and Facilities—is crucial to align event operations with the mission and logistics of the museum. The role also involves onsite coordination during events to oversee event flow and adherence to museum standards, training team members, and conducting client follow-ups to assess satisfaction and encourage future collaborations. The Special Events Coordinator’s efforts help maintain the high standards and dynamic environment for which Crystal Bridges is known, ultimately enriching both the visitor experience and the institution's community engagement.