[Hiring] Trip Development Manager @Iconic Adventures

Role Description

Iconic Adventures is seeking experienced Trip Development Managers to design, develop, and deliver high-quality travel experiences for our nonprofit, corporate/affinity, and FIT/luxury clients. The Trip Development Manager is responsible for the full trip development lifecycle, from initial concept, costing, and itinerary design through handoff to on-the-ground execution.

• Transform client goals into thoughtful, logistically sound itineraries that meet Iconic’s standards for guest experience, risk mitigation, and profitability.
• Bring deep, hands-on experience in trip design, group travel logistics, group block contracting, and budget management.
• Operate with a high degree of ownership and autonomy.

Key Responsibilities

• Trip Design, Development, and Proposal Creation:
  • Own the full lifecycle of trip development for assigned programs across Iconic’s portfolio.
  • Collaborate with Client Engagement Directors to understand scope, client objectives, constraints, and budget.
  • Demonstrate expert client relationship management and professionalism in all client communications.
  • Conduct destination and activity research; identify, evaluate, and vet vendors (hotels, DMCs, transport, activities).
  • Build detailed itineraries, including timing, flows, contingency plans, and guest experience touchpoints.
  • Partner with internal stakeholders to refine proposals for operational feasibility.
• Financial and Vendor Management:
  • Build and maintain accurate trip budgets by managing costs.
  • Lead group block contracting for hotels, DMCs, and transport partners.
  • Support accurate invoicing, payables, and reconciliation for trip-related financials.
  • Negotiate with vendors to optimize value and protect trip quality.
• Planning, Execution Support, and Continuous Improvement:
  • Identify potential risks in trip design and planning and develop proactive mitigation strategies.
  • Coordinate with Field Operations and Client Engagement teams to ensure trip plans are clearly communicated.
  • Collaborate with the Trip Development & Operations Coordinator to share required passenger information with vendors.
  • Use technology and internal tools to improve trip development workflows.
  • Participate in post-trip debriefs and prepare trip performance summaries.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of progressive experience in the travel industry, focusing on trip development, product design, and/or operations.
• Demonstrated experience turning client objectives into structured programs, trips, or experiences.
• Proven, hands-on experience with:
  • Trip costing and budget management.
  • Group block contracting (hotels, DMCs, transport).
  • Vendor negotiation and relationship management.

Preferred Qualifications and Attributes

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (hospitality, tourism, communications, marketing, journalism, English, or related discipline).
• Self-motivated, results-oriented, with a warm, professional communication style.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and highly developed negotiation skills.
• Proven ability to work well with cross-functional team members and manage critical deadlines.
• Ability to establish trust, inspire confidence, and collaborate effectively.
• Comfortable working effectively in both an office environment and remotely.
• Experience leading trip-related initiatives focused on achieving defined goals.
• Spanish language proficiency is preferred but not required.

Compensation

• Compensation commensurate with experience. 2026 starting salary range: $60,000-$80,000.
• This is a full-time, exempt position.
• Details regarding employment classification, schedule, and benefits eligibility will be confirmed in the offer stage.
• All offers will be contingent on clear background check.

Benefits

• Health and dental coverage.
• Unlimited PTO.
• 401(k) plan with employer match.
• Paid parental leave.
• FAM opportunities.
• An annual discretionary allowance to support your working environment.
• An annual company retreat to reset and connect with colleagues.
• Optional use of our Steamboat Springs, Colorado office.

Hiring Process and What to Expect

• We are hiring immediately and reviewing applications as they arrive.
• The window closes Friday, November 6, 2026, and may close sooner.
• Candidates are encouraged to highlight itineraries they personally designed and developed.
• Be prepared to provide up to 3 professional references.

Background Check Disclosure

• Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a job-related background check.
• Candidates will receive any required disclosures and authorization forms before a background check is conducted.

Equal Opportunity

The Iconic Adventures LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.