Managing Director

About the role

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Requirements

• 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

Benefits

Additional Information

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.

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