Events & Venue Rental Manager

National Museum of Forest Service History
Missoula, Montana

Company Description

The National Museum of Forest Service History is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich legacy of the U.S. Forest Service and the American conservation movement. Open seven days a week, the museum welcomes visitors of all ages to explore stories, exhibits, and experiences that connect people to our shared public lands history. The Museum is located approx.. 1 mile west of the Missoula Airport at 6305 Highway 10 West.

On 17 July 2026, the National Conservation Legacy Center, a new world class museum opened its’ doors creating opportunities to welcome visitors and bring the American conservation story to life. This is an especially exciting time to join the National Museum of Forest Service History as we continue to grow and expand our impact.

We are seeking someone that is highly organized and customer service driven.

Position Summary

The Events & Venue Rental Manager is responsible for developing and growing the National Conservation Legacy Center as one of western Montana's premier destinations for meetings, conferences, weddings, nonprofit events, corporate gatherings, and community celebrations.

This newly created position combines event sales, customer relationship management, venue operations, and community outreach. The successful candidate will actively build awareness of the museum's rental opportunities while creating exceptional experiences for every client, from the initial inquiry through the successful completion of each event.

As an ambassador for the museum, this individual will cultivate relationships throughout Montana with businesses, government agencies, nonprofits, tourism organizations, chambers of commerce, wedding professionals, and community partners to increase venue utilization and strengthen awareness of the museum's mission.

Primary Responsibilities

Venue Sales & Business Development

• Develop and implement strategies to increase facility rentals throughout the year.
• Respond promptly to rental inquiries and guide prospective clients through the booking process.
• Conduct tours of the facility for prospective clients.
• Prepare rental proposals, contracts, pricing, and follow-up communications.
• Build long-term relationships that generate repeat business and referrals.
• Maintain an active sales pipeline and track prospective clients.

Community Outreach & Relationship Building

• Represent the museum at community events, trade shows, tourism conferences, wedding expos, chamber events, and business networking opportunities.
• Develop partnerships with local businesses, hotels, tourism organizations, caterers, wedding planners, and event vendors.
• Promote the National Conservation Legacy Center as a premier venue throughout Montana.
• Serve as an enthusiastic ambassador for the museum's mission.

Event Planning & Client Experience

• Coordinate logistics with clients before each event.
• Serve as the primary point of contact before and during events.
• Coordinate with museum staff, volunteers, vendors, and outside contractors.
• Ensure events are executed professionally and exceed client expectations.
• Resolve issues calmly and professionally.

Marketing & Promotion

• Work with museum leadership to develop promotional materials highlighting venue spaces.
• Assist with social media content showcasing successful events.
• Gather testimonials, photographs, and success stories.
• Identify new markets and seasonal opportunities for rentals.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain event calendars and booking systems.
• Prepare contracts and invoices.
• Track revenue, rental activity, and sales metrics.
• Maintain vendor and client databases.
• Recommend improvements to rental policies and procedures.

Qualifications

Required

• Outstanding interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Strong customer service orientation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Exceptional organizational and project management abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple events and deadlines simultaneously.
• Comfortable working evenings and weekends as events require.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel throughout Montana.

Preferred

• Experience in hospitality, event planning, venue management, tourism, sales, nonprofit organizations, or customer relationship management.
• Experience coordinating meetings, conferences, weddings, or special events.
• Experience working with volunteers and community organizations.
• Familiarity with CRM or event management software.

Employment Type

Permanent, full-time position including benefits. Please note the Museum currently does not offer a group health insurance policy.

Work hours are flexible depending on Museum activities. Weekend and occasional evening work is expected. Pay starts at $20 to $22 per hour DOE.

To apply please send your resume to lisa.tate@forestservicemuseum.org

No phone calls please.