WHO WE ARE
MT Sobek, the leader in adventure travel for over 52 years, offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences to more than 100 destinations worldwide, specializing in trekking, hiking, rafting, kayaking, wildlife, natural history and safaris. We explore the world in imaginative ways and our journeys range from high-horizon treks to walking safaris, from quick escapes to month-long expeditions. MT Sobek has a reputation for excellence, a deep commitment to environmental preservation and a never-ending passion for showcasing the marvels of the world. If you’re looking for an opportunity with an established company but like to work in a friendly, collaborative and dynamic environment, where you’ll have ownership of your work, then you’ll fit right in!
Position: Custom Travel Consultant – USA
Reporting to: Director of Custom Travel
Location: San Francisco Bay Area – Emeryville, California – Remote
Term: Full-Time
WHAT YOU’LL DO
The Custom Travel Consultant plays a critical role designing and selling custom itineraries to direct guests and travel professionals. You will be responsible for responding to North America custom trip requests – working closely with the Custom Trips operation roles.
PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
• Assist guests, travel agents and other MTS staff in planning and selling custom itineraries with a high level of detail and customer service for the one or more of the following regions: Alaska, California, Pacific Northwest, Southwest and Rockies
• Meet or exceed established sales goals
• Provide top-level, prompt customer service, assuring inquiries and calls are answered and serviced efficiently
• Build and maintain exemplary working relationships with travel agents, hotel partners and suppliers
• Design logistically sound, custom itineraries with a high level of efficiency, adaptability and accuracy based around the client’s wish list, interests, goals, activity level, group dynamic and budget
• Discuss and manage realistic expectations as a regional specialist
• Create trip costings, write itinerary copy and generate initial itinerary documents
• Ensure all details of each inquiry and booking are entered and maintained accurately in Tour Cube
• Manage vendor relations including, but not limited to, the identification and vetting of new vendors, negotiation of rates, establish and maintain vendor agreements
• Collaborate with custom team members and other MTS departments to facilitate the booking process by assisting in booking services, problem solving, guest relations and reconciliation of trip financials
• Maintain a high-level of knowledge of current offerings and destination information
KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES
• Adept ability to build high level, custom itineraries utilizing existing systems and outfitters as well as sourcing all aspects of itinerary as a vertical operation
• Minimum of 5 years proven experience developing and selling custom FIT travel
• Excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal and negotiation skills
• Previous experience designing, costing and managing private departures and custom FIT trips
• Ability to manage multiple critical deadlines for various departments
• Customer service experience and a true willingness to exceed guest and agent expectations with every interaction
• Superb sense of detail
• High level of initiative
• Can work effectively and remain focused in a fast-paced work environment
• Can juggle multiple priorities simultaneously
• Excellent organizational and computer skills: proficient and comfortable with Word, Outlook, PowerPoint and Excel. TourCube experience is a plus
• A willingness to learn new, complex systems is required
• Value and embody integrity, teamwork, empowerment, and sense of ownership
• Enthusiastic about working for MT Sobek and have a passion for active travel and the outdoors
Competitive salary plus incentive program. Excellent employee benefits package including comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance and 401K. Hours are typically M-F from 8am to 5pm.
To apply, please send a cover letter letting us know why you think you’d be a great fit at MT Sobek along with your resume and salary requirements to mtsjobs@mtsobek.com with “Custom Travel Consultant” in the subject line of your email. Please attach your cover letter and resume in PDF format. No phone calls please.
MT Sobek is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.