Position: Special Event Account Manager

FLSA Status: Exempt

Department: Special Event and Group Sales

Our Mission: Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, our organization has aimed to connect people to the natural environment and human history.

Join our team and enjoy a benefits package that truly supports your well-being and lifestyle:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance.

• Financial Security: Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future.

• Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones.

• Exclusive Perks: Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.

We're dedicated to enhancing your life both at work and beyond!

The Special Event Account Manager is responsible for managing and executing private and corporate special events at the Field Museum, from initial client inquiry through event completion. Serving as the primary point of contact for clients, this role ensures exceptional guest experiences while meeting revenue goals and upholding the Museum’s brand, mission, and operational standards. The ideal candidate is highly organized, client-focused, and experienced in managing complex events in a dynamic, high-profile venue.

Duties and Responsibilities

Client Relationship Management

1. Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned event clients, building and maintaining strong relationships while delivering high-quality responsive customer service.

2. Manage events from contract execution through post-event follow-up, proactively coordinating details to ensure client expectations are met or exceeded.

3. Conduct client site visits, planning meetings, and event walkthroughs of Museum spaces.

4. Provide guidance on event logistics, Museum policies, vendor coordination, and available enhancements.

Event Planning & Execution

1. Plan and execute a wide range of events, including corporate events, galas, weddings, donor events, and social functions, ensuring alignment with client objectives and Museum standards.

2. Develop detailed event orders and timelines that clearly outline logistics, staffing needs, audiovisual requirements, catering, security, and facilities support to ensure coordinated execution.

3. Coordinate with Visitor Services, Facilities, Security, Culinary partners, Retail, and other Museum departments to align resources and ensure seamless execution.

4. Provide on-site guidance and leadership to internal staff, contractors, and external vendors to support efficient operations and positive guest experience.

5. Serve as the on-site event lead, managing logistics, resolving issues, and ensuring a high-quality guest experience.

Sales & Revenue Support

1. Support revenue goals by managing assigned accounts efficiently and identifying opportunities for event enhancements, upgrades, and additional services.

2. Respond to and manage sales inquiries via email, phone, and various inquiry websites in a timely and professional manner.

3. Prepare and manage event-related documentation, including contracts, amendments, estimates, and final billing.

4. Participate in sales-related meetings and brainstorming sessions to develop and implement marketing and advertising strategies.

5. Maintain accurate, up-to-date event details and communications in the Museum’s event management and CRM systems.

Operational & Administrative Duties

1. Ensure all events comply with Museum policies, safety protocols, and preservation standards.

2. Maintain accurate event records, budgets, and post-event reports to support financial accountability and continuous improvement.

3. Contribute to process improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, consistency, and client satisfaction.

4. Support departmental projects, reporting, and peak-season event coverage as needed.

Skills and Qualifications

1. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.

2. Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in special events, hospitality, venue management, or a related field.

3. Proven experience managing multiple events simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

4. Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.

5. Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.

6. Proficiency with event management software and Microsoft Office (or Google Workspace).

7. Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by event schedules.

Preferred

1. Experience working in a museum, cultural institution, nonprofit, or landmark venue.

2. Knowledge of catering, audiovisual, and event production practices.

Supervision Received:

Receives general supervision by Senior Director of Business Enterprise.

Supervision Exercised:

The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Work Hours and Shift:

Varies with Nights and Weekends required

Hybrid Eligibility:

Eligible

Location: 1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive. Chicago, IL 60605

Union Representation: This position is represented by Field Museum Workers’ United, AFSCME Council 31, AFL-CIO.

Pay Range: $62,500 - $64,500

PLEASE READ: *When you apply for multiple positions, please make sure to delete your previous resume and cover letter and upload the latest version of your resume and cover letter that is relevant to the job you are applying for, every time you apply. This will help our hiring managers access the correct documents. Please note that removing the resume and cover letter will not delete any previously submitted resumes and cover letters.

The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.

At the Field Museum, we are dedicated to making our career website and recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you encounter any difficulty when using or accessing our online application, or if you need a reasonable accommodation for completing your application, participating in interviews, or any other part of the selection process, please reach out to us at recruitment@fieldmuseum.org.