MARS & Companies is a highly recognized and respected group travel company within the Travel & Tourism Industry catering to other tour operators (B2B) as well as individual tour groups (B2C). We work closely with our clients to develop travel itineraries custom designed to their needs and desires. Likewise, we maintain strong partnerships with vendors/suppliers to ensure our clients enjoy the best rates and conditions. Client groups range from senior centers, middle schools, performance troops, reunion groups, other tour operators, AAA and other retail sales agents, and sports teams. Our Family of Brands (Mid Atlantic Receptive Services (MARS), Go Student Tours, Go Sports Tours, SoccerTours.net, Go Performing, and Epicurean Explorations) offer unique travel experiences both domestically and internationally.
Excellent service and unique product packages, which our clients have come to expect, are our professional trademarks. If you have a passion for travel, enjoy problem solving, and are looking to grow your career, we encourage you to apply.
Job Description – Tour Planning Specialist
At MARS & Companies, our tour planning specialists are critical to our success. We’re seeking a qualified tour planner to customize and price our unique, quality tour packages and services to our customers’ individual needs and preferences. Tour planning specialists should have a strong understanding of the tour planning and pricing process and tour product development. This person should also be adept at building relationships with both vendors and customers through strong communication skills. Often tasked with giving presentations, attending networking events and trade shows, our tour planning specialists are personable, professional, and compelling. Entry-level applicants are preferred in Northern, VA or Chicago, IL.
Objectives of this Role:
· Represent our company’s products and services, starting with a deep and comprehensive understanding of the industry.
· Study consumer research to identify how our products and business practices meet the needs of our customers.
· Connect with individual clients in order to tailor sales proposals to individual group needs.
· Collaborate with tour planning team to ensure all deadlines are met.
· Accurately price and time tour products.
· Educate clients on MARS products, travel guidelines and manage client expectations through honest and consistent communication.
Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
· Maintain working relationships with existing clients and vendors to ensure exceptional service and identify potential new sales opportunities.
· Prepare professional, complete, concise, and accurate reports, proposals, booking packages, and other documentation as required for customer proposals and presentations.
· Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing professional publications, establishing personal networks, and participating in professional societies.
· Actively collaborate with tour planning team, sales team, and operations team to ensure seamless customer experience.
· Manage deadlines for numerous proposals at any given time.
· Minimal travel may be required.
Skills and Qualifications
· 3-5 years in sales within the Travel and Tourism / Hospitality Industry.
· Proven track record of successfully managing customer relationships.
· Excellent communication, interpersonal, problem-solving, presentation, and organizational skills.
· Proficiency with tour planning management software and CRM.
· Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
· Candidate will be highly motivated and possess high personal integrity.
· Ability to work as a team as well as independently.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $45,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
Supplemental pay types:
Experience:
- Hospitality or Travel: 2 years (Required)
Work Location: Remote