ABOUT US
MT Sobek (Mountain Travel Sobek), the leader in adventure travel since 1969, offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences to more than 150 destinations worldwide. We specialize in hiking, trekking, rafting, kayaking, wildlife safaris, and cultural discovery adventures, and offer a range of unique travel itineraries led by incredible local guides. MT Sobek has a reputation for excellence, a deep commitment to environmental preservation, and a never-ending passion for sharing the marvels of the world. If you are looking for an opportunity with an established company but like to work in a friendly, collaborative, and dynamic environment, then you will fit right in.
We are seeking an exceptional individual to join a team of expert regional Program Directors in stewarding our active international travel programs. Proven experience in the adventure travel industry and substantial travel experience, including hiking and trekking, is essential. The ideal candidate will bring enthusiasm and a commitment to the highest standards of trip development and quality assurance in the industry. The ideal candidate is guest focused and driven to deliver top notch experiences of a lifetime.
Position: Program Director, Asia
Reporting to: Senior Director of Trip Development and Operations
Location: San Francisco Bay Area – Emeryville, California – Potential for Remote
Term: Full-Time
Salary Range: The salary range for this role is $70,000–$90,000, based on in-person work at our Emeryville, CA headquarters. For remote-eligible roles, compensation may be adjusted based on the candidate’s location to ensure equity and market alignment.
RESPONSIBILITIES
• Develop and oversee all aspects of a portfolio of trips, including itinerary creation, ensuring itinerary accuracy, and collaborating with outfitters, guides, and vendors to deliver successful, high-quality trip experiences.
• Uphold stringent quality assurance standards for all trips.
• Manage scheduled group trips, private departures, and custom itineraries.
• Update and ensure the accuracy and timeliness of sales tools, including trip itineraries, FAQs, pre-departure and final details, and training materials.
• Conduct regular Product Knowledge (PK) training sessions.
• Provide ongoing trip and region expertise to support Sales and Customer Service teams.
• Create and maintain trip budgets, ensuring profitability.
• Participate in the Emergency Phone rotation.
• Conduct annual competitive and regional trend analysis, designing innovative solutions for evolving markets.
QUALIFICATIONS
• A passion for adventure travel including hiking and trekking.
• Extensive knowledge and expertise in Asian geography and cultures
• Demonstrated experience conceptualizing and designing group tour itineraries.
• Understanding of trip economics, including yield, profit, volume, cost, and optimal pricing
• Proficiency in budget management
• Proven negotiation skills with a successful history in negotiating service terms with outfitters and third parties.
• Strategic and systematic thinker with strong execution skills
• Ability to multitask and meet numerous deadlines.
• Excellent work ethic with a strong commitment to company goals and objectives
• Collaborative team player, coordinating with Finance, Sales, Guest Services, and Marketing teams to drive sales growth, trip quality, and profitability.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with both guests and colleagues
• Proficiency in the entire MS Office suite
• Strong critical thinking skills
• Excellent time-management skills
• Enthusiastic, positive attitude and a can-do spirit
• Outstanding people skills with the ability to build strong relationships with outfitters and internal staff.
MT Sobek pays a competitive wage and provides an incentive program. Excellent employee benefits package offered including comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance and 401K. To apply, send your resume with “Program Director, Asia” in the subject to mtsjobs@mtsobek.com.
MT Sobek is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.