BENTONVILLE, Ark., Feb. 19, 2025 — Visit Bentonville reveals significant growth in its sales department following a record-breaking year that generated $41 million in economic impact from events. The organization welcomes several key appointments and announces plans for continued expansion in 2025.
"Our growing sales team reflects Bentonville's emergence as a premier destination for events of all sizes," said Kalene Griffith, CEO and president of Visit Bentonville. "Each new team member brings specialized expertise that will help us build upon our tremendous success in 2024."
Wesley Oliver will lead the expanded sales team as director of sales. He brings over a decade of tourism and hospitality experience to Visit Bentonville. Most recently, he served as director of tourism and communications at the Springdale Chamber of Commerce, where he managed marketing, tourism alliances, and grant programs. His career began at Explore Charleston, where he developed extensive expertise in visitor services and group sales.
Working alongside Oliver is Kim Krutsch as meeting sales manager, leveraging nearly two decades of hospitality experience in northwest Arkansas. Prior to joining Visit Bentonville, Krutsch served as general manager of Staybridge Suites in Rogers and held director of sales positions at several Bentonville hotels.
Amy Springer joins the team as sports sales manager, bringing valuable experience in event management and sports administration. Her background includes roles with USA Softball, Marucci Sports, and various sports academies.
Nicole Curbow, outdoor events and sales manager, supports Visit Bentonville’s cycling and outdoor recreation events and programs, recruiting new events and serving as a key liaison between Visit Bentonville and community organizers. Her work supports returning events like Bentonville Bike Fest, Bentonville Half Marathon, the Life Time Big Sugar Classic.
The team expansion continues with the creation of a new position, event services coordinator, in Q2 2025, further strengthening Visit Bentonville's ability to serve event organizers across all sectors.
"Our sales team's role goes far beyond simply booking events," Oliver said. "While we're focused on bringing new business to Bentonville, our true impact comes from the comprehensive support we provide throughout the entire event process. Our elevated service, attention to detail, and event expertise take each visiting group's experience to the next level. When groups experience this level of support, they don't just have a successful event—they become long-term partners who choose Bentonville again and again."
For more information about hosting events in Bentonville, please visit www.visitbentonville.com.
About Visit Bentonville
Visit Bentonville is funded by the Bentonville Advertising and Promotion Commission which was established in 1996. The commission is supported by a 2% tax on lodging and meeting space and a 1% tax on restaurant and dining establishments. The organization's mission is to promote Bentonville as a vibrant experience for all, enhancing the quality of life and stimulating economic development that will strengthen our local economy. Visit Bentonville leads the planning of sports, meetings and group tours while also marketing leisure experiences that include arts, cycling, culinary, film, music and aviation. Visit Bentonville also collaborates with tourism offices throughout the state of Arkansas to create positive economic impact while increasing tourism amenities for both visitors and residents.
