Managing Director

Access Your Potential. Join us to create and deliver experiences that inspire people, spark connection, and bring imagination to life—while having a lot of fun doing it. We’re looking for a Managing Director to join our team in the San Diego area. About the Job We are seeking a Managing Director to lead our San Diego territory—one of our most dynamic, multi-million-dollar markets. This role is both strategic and operational, serving as the senior leader responsible for driving revenue, profitability, and team performance across multiple cities and resort markets. You will partner closely with Executive Leadership and Corporate teams to shape strategy, then translate that vision into execution across Sales, Events, and Creative. Success in this role means building a high-performing, accountable, and engaged team while growing market share, strengthening partnerships, and delivering exceptional client experiences. Location: San Diego, CA Work Model: Hybrid with consistent in-market presence Travel: Regional travel as needed This role requires strong visibility with clients, partners, and internal teams. What You'll Be Doing Business Ownership & Corporate Partnership Co-develop and execute the annual business plan aligned to revenue, gross profit, and net income targets Own full P&L accountability, including forecasting, budgeting, and resource allocation Lead regular business reviews, identifying risks and opportunities and driving performance improvements Team Leadership & Accountability Lead, coach, and develop a team of Directors across Sales, Events, and Creative Set clear expectations and hold leaders accountable to KPIs, performance standards, and behaviors Build a strong, values-driven culture focused on collaboration, ownership, and results Market Leadership & Growth Serve as the face of Access in the market—building and maintaining high-value client relationships Strengthen partnerships with hotels, venues, and key suppliers Identify and drive new business opportunities and market expansion strategies Maintain an active industry presence through networking, events, and thought leadership Cross-Functional Strategy & Execution Partner with Executive Leadership to translate company strategy into market-level execution Collaborate with peers across territories to share best practices and drive consistency Ensure alignment across Sales, Events, and Creative to deliver seamless client experiences Operational & Contract Oversight Oversee client and vendor contract strategy, negotiation, and compliance Ensure agreements align with company risk standards and profitability goals Standardize processes across markets, including contract management and vendor onboarding Support national partnerships and Master Service Agreements (MSAs) Process, Governance & Infrastructure Implement scalable systems, SOPs, and reporting frameworks Drive consistency in forecasting, pipeline visibility, and operational execution Lead adoption of tools, technology, and best practices across the territory About Access Access is a women-owned and women-led destination management company that collaborates with clients to design and execute corporate events and programs. Our expert teams are in coast-to-coast destinations, designing and producing ultimate experiences for our clients. About You You are a business-minded leader who thrives at the intersection of strategy, operations, and people leadership. You know how to scale teams, drive accountability, and build strong market presence. Nice-to-haves: 10+ years of experience in hospitality, events, or DMC environments 5+ years in senior leadership with P&L ownership Proven ability to lead high-performing teams and drive revenue growth Strong commercial acumen and decision-making ability Executive presence with the ability to influence at all levels Deep understanding of client relationships and partnership-driven business Why Access? CULTURE & EXTRAS Certified as a Great Place to Work – 3 years in a row and counting! 50+ years in the industry! Women-owned and women-led Fun, creative, and supportive culture Focus on recognition and employee value – including annual and quarterly awards Paid day off to serve your local community Annual all-company retreat to connect, learn, and have fun together Annual qualifier-based incentive trip for top performers (certain departments eligible) Regional team outings Monthly companywide meetings to connect, learn, and celebrate wins COMPENSATION Highly competitive total compensation, including strong base salary and quarterly bonuses Very strong performance-based quarterly commission plans 401k with company match (eligible after 1 year – up to 4% of salary matched, vested immediately Monthly cell phone stipend WORK LIFE BALANCE Work from home opportunities and flexibility (including full home office setup) Flexible schedule opportunities Generous PTO Sick days 9 full holidays 5 half days off prior to holidays to unplug early 2 floating holidays off to be used on holidays of your choice ½ day Fridays in July & August (based on achievement of goals) HEALTH, WELLNESS, AND FAMILY Extensive menu of health plans to choose from Paid parental leave Pet insurance program Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Mentorship program “Masterclasses” in industry/department-specific topics State-of-the-art technology platforms and tools – including training Annual and monthly meeting content that focuses on professional development Ready to ACCESS your next big opportunity? Apply today! Access is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We are a proud Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at [email protected].