Senior Associate, Business Development for International Concert Tours: 2026-3648

Hf Hq • Washington, DC

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

At KI Concerts, we design and deliver transformative international performance experiences for choirs, bands, and orchestras around the world. The Senior Associate of Business Development for International Concert Tours plays a key role in building relationships with new and returning ensemble Directors, designing customized performance tours, and fostering long-term partnerships. This is a relationship-driven, mission-oriented role for someone who is passionate about music, inspired by global travel, and energized by connecting with people. You’ll work closely with directors from first conversation through tour launch, helping them create unforgettable experiences for their performers. You’ll also drive new business through a variety of channels (social media, marketing leads, events, outreach, and referrals) while rebooking and growing existing relationships. We’re looking for a dynamic individual with a strong musical background, excellent communication skills, and an interest in international travel. In this role, you’ll inspire clients to embark on meaningful global experiences while delivering personalized, high-touch service throughout the sales process. This role reports to KI Concert’s Senior Director of Programs and is based in Headfirst’s DC office or remotely, and is expected to travel to industry conferences and on KI Concert tours abroad.

Requirements

• Experience as a musician, background in music education through teaching or professional certification, and/or a proficient understanding of musical theory.
• General knowledge and understanding of international performance travel industry and the global destinations to which KI Concerts clients travel.
• Strong interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills; ability to communicate clearly and effectively with internal staff and management with limited managerial oversight.
• Either demonstrated success in a sales, revenue-generating or grant-acquisition role, or eagerness to learn these skills.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Results-oriented mindset with a focus on delivering measurable outcomes.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to analyze market trends and develop effective sales strategies.
• Ability to problem-solve and apply previous take-aways and lessons learned to similar problems when they reoccur.
• Ability to think ahead to how issues and decisions will impact customer experience and budgetary objectives, and to exercise good judgment to balance competing experiential and operational interests.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree with a concentration in music, tourism, business, management, or related field.
• Experience outside of North America either through work or personal travel.
• Proficiency in CRM software and sales analytics tools, or demonstrated ability to learn software systems.

Responsibilities

• Proactively identify and pursue sales opportunities to achieve and exceed established targets.
• Cultivate relationships with select existing and prospective clients through consistent communication and follow-up.
• Utilize a consultative sales approach and musical background to understand clients' travel preferences, interests, and budgetary considerations, tailoring tour packages to meet their needs.
• Be accountable for consistent updates within KI’s CRM system, HubSpot, to keep client records and pipeline always up to date.
• Nurture leads acquired through multiple channels, including attending industry conferences, re-booking existing KI clients, following up with incoming web and marketing leads, seeking customer referrals, and actively making calls and performing web research to build KI’s customer base.
• Work closely with the client to design a customized itinerary or choose an appropriate Festival offering.
• Create a full proposal with itinerary and pricing, and walk through this with clients.
• Support the client in promoting the trip to potential participants, and work with the client until the group is ready to be transitioned to an Operations Team member.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in the performing arts, with an emphasis on music.
• Develop a comprehensive understanding of KI’s product offerings, including destinations, itineraries, inclusions, and pricing.
• Stay updated on industry trends, travel regulations, and destination highlights to provide accurate and timely information to clients.
• Educate clients on the unique features and benefits of KI tour packages, highlighting the value proposition and differentiating factors, including high level musical expertise.
• Provide exceptional customer service throughout the sales process, from initial inquiry to post-trip follow-up.
• Address client inquiries, concerns, and requests promptly and professionally, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable booking experience.
• Anticipate client needs and offer personalized recommendations and enhancements to enhance their travel and musical experiences.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, Global Sales & Senior Advisor and their sales team, operations, marketing, and product development, to ensure alignment on sales strategies and objectives.
• Share client feedback, market insights, and competitive intelligence to inform product enhancements and marketing initiatives.
• Act as a brand ambassador, representing the company values and commitment to excellence in every interaction.
• Drive a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the sales team, implementing best practices and innovative approaches to enhance sales effectiveness.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits eligibility on the first of the month following start date, with a 50% Headfirst contribution towards employee monthly premium
• 401k eligibility after 6 months of employment, with up to 4% Headfirst match
• Uncapped self-managed time off
• Headfirst-paid short-term disability insurance after 1 year of employment
• Eligibility for generous parental leave after 1 year of employment, as well as additional medical and family leave support for qualifying life events
• Free Headfirst summer camp for children of full-time year-round employees
• Access to training, learning resources, and career growth opportunities
• Central Dupont Circle-area office with complementary on-site gym and locker room facilities
• Option to participate in the WMATA SmartBenefits commuter program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior