Community Engagement Manager

JOB DESCRIPTION: The Community Engagement Manager plays a key role in building and strengthening relationships between Visit Bentonville, local stakeholders, community partners, residents, and visitors. This position focuses on increasing community awareness and participation in tourism initiatives, fostering collaboration among local organizations within tourism industry, and ensuring that Bentonville’s tourism growth aligns with the needs and values of its residents, businesses, and community. 

The ideal candidate is a creative communicator and relationship builder who understands the importance of community in destination development and is passionate about showcasing Bentonville as a welcoming and vibrant destination. He/she must perform all duties in a safe and prudent manner and have ethical behavior to attain our mission.

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES: These roles and responsibilities are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the individual assigned to this position. They are not intended to be a complete list of all duties, responsibilities, and/or skills required. Other tasks may be assigned as needed.

Key Responsibilities:

Community Relations & Partnership Development

·        Serve as the primary liaison between Visit Bentonville and the CEO with our local hospitality businesses, restaurants, lodging, and attractions.

·        Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with local businesses, event organizers, and tourism partners.

·        Collaborate with the City of Bentonville, Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Bentonville Inc., and other partners to support community and tourism initiatives.

·        Support community events, engagement sessions, and committee happenings to gather feedback and share tourism updates.

·        Represent Visit Bentonville at community meetings, events, and public forums.

Public Engagement & Communications

·        Develop and implement a community engagement plan that promotes awareness of Visit Bentonville’s mission, programs, and impact.

·        Support storytelling efforts that highlight local people, places, and experiences connected to tourism.

·        Collaborate with the marketing team to ensure consistent messaging across community and public channels. (IE. Love our locals, Bentonville Best Practices)

Program Development & Support

·        Assist in developing and promoting local programs such as tourism ambassador initiatives, volunteer opportunities, and local tourism education.

·        Collect community feedback to inform Visit Bentonville’s strategic planning and visitor experience initiatives.

Visitor & Resident Experience

·        Advocate for inclusive tourism that benefits residents and visitors alike.

·        Work with local attractions, cultural organizations, and hospitality partners to enhance visitor experiences.

·        Support initiatives that connect residents with tourism-related opportunities and information (IE: Bentonville Belong – Resident Engagement Program and Walmart New Employee program).

Qualifications:

Education & Experience

· Bachelor’s degree (not required but recommended)

· Minimum 2-4 years of experience in community engagement, tourism, public relations, or nonprofit management (recommended).

· Experience working with municipal, tourism, or community development organizations preferred.

Skills & Attributes

·  Strong relationship management and communication skills (verbal and written).

·  Proven ability to engage diverse audiences and build trust in community settings.

·  Excellent organizational, event planning, and project management skills.

·  Creative problem solver with a passion for local culture and community collaboration.

·  Proficient in social media, CRM systems, and Microsoft Office / Google Workspace tools.

·  Familiarity with destination marketing and tourism trends is a plus.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE:

·  Knowledge of a cross-section of business disciplines, including sales, marketing, hospitality industry operations, financial and accounting systems, e-commerce, and business communications

·  Knowledge of standard office practices and procedures

·  Knowledge of cycling industry

·  Knowledge of correct English grammar, spelling, and punctuation

·  Knowledge of internet tools, research, social media tools, and other basics used in communications

·  Skill in the operation of a personal computer, utilizing database, internet, spreadsheet, and word processing software.

·  Ability to review and correct ad proofs

·  Ability to compose and type correspondence and reports

·  Ability to compile data and prepare narrative and statistical reports

·  Ability to conduct research and analyze and interpret research findings

·  Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

Work Environment

Full-time, on-site role with occasional evening and weekend responsibilities for events or community meetings.

Active presence in community spaces and events across Bentonville.

Some travel may be required for regional and state tourism activities.

Salary

$50,000 to $60,000 Annually

About Visit Bentonville

Visit Bentonville is the official tourism bureau for the City of Bentonville. Our mission is to promote Bentonville as a premier destination for leisure travel, meetings, sports, and cultural experiences. We work to enhance the local economy, celebrate our creative community, and showcase Bentonville’s unique blend of art, cycling, cuisine, and hospitality.