Jason Elkins
WhatsApp or Phone +1 480-939-4679
Location: Worldwide, US Citizen
Objective:
Passionate and experienced professional with a strong background in adventure tourism and a track record of driving profitability. Seeking opportunities to contribute expertise in tour sales, operations, digital marketing, and customer service to a dynamic team focused on crafting exceptional travel experiences.
Professional Summary:
Charismatic and results-driven professional with a diverse career spanning roles such as a US Army paratrooper, Montana fly fishing guide, international adventure travel tour operator, Belize lodge manager, third-generation commercial hot air balloon pilot, and creator and host of the Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast. Experienced in leadership, strategic planning, brand development, and world-class customer service.
Skills & Certifications
Leadership | Management | Tour Operations | Sales
B2B & B2C Sales | Digital Marketing | Conflict Resolution
Intermediate Spanish | Public Speaking | Podcasting
FAA Certified Commercial Pilot | PADI Advanced Open Water SCUBA Diver
Microsoft Certified Professional | Master Certified Negotiation Expert
Google Ads Certifications | HubSpot Digital Marketing Certification
US Army Airborne, Pathfinder, and Air Assault Certifications
Professional Experience
Tourism Consultant, Digital Marketing Expert, Podcast Host
Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing (2023 - Present)
Creator and host of the "Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Podcast."
Director of Marketing & Operations for COLOMBIA ECOTRAVEL.
Develop customized marketing strategies for clients.
Built a podcast audience with 4500 downloads in less than 12 months.
Engaged target audience through social media and virtual summits.
Built a podcast guest list of 75+ tourism experts representing 25+ counties on 7 continents
Licensed Real Estate Sales Professional
The Carin Nguyen Real Estate Network (2016 - 2023)
Marketed residential properties using various strategies.
Facilitated smooth real estate transactions, earning 5-star reviews.
Initiated and managed cold and warm sales call campaigns.
Coordinated appointments to optimize sales performance.
Founder & Commercial Hot Air Balloon Pilot
Equinox Balloons (2010 - 2017)
Established and operated a top-rated hot air balloon ride business.
Led a team ensuring safety and excellent customer service.
Implemented innovative marketing strategies for brand visibility.
Designed and managed a website with real-time automated bookings.
General Manager
Orvis International Travel - The Orvis Company (2005 - 2014)
Managed a thriving international tour operation business.
Achieved remarkable 325% revenue growth.
Led a team of planners, coordinators, and marketers.
Developed, marketed, sold, and personally led numerous tours around the world.
Directed the Orvis Endorsed International Destination program.
Fly Fishing and SCUBA Diving Resort Manager
Turneffe Flats Resort (2003 - 2004)
Provided comprehensive oversight for a prestigious resort.
Supervised a diverse team, fostering a culture of excellence.
Played a key role in driving revenue growth and enhancing the resort's reputation.
Book a 15 minute call with me at adventuretravelmarketing.com/introcall
What others have said:
"I hired Jason Elkins three months ago to work at COLOMBIA ECOTRAVEL and he's already significantly increased our operational capacity and created systemized processes which allow for at least a 2x increase in sales this year. Check out his company and also the podcast!"
~ Daniel Buitrón Jaramillo - CEO & Co-Founder COLOMBIA ECOTRAVEL
"Jason is an excellent mentor to junior associates; connects with the customer and creates loyalty; provides a benchmark for effective customer service. He has the ability to perform well in the office and in the field, which is rare, and excels at both."
~ Dave Parker - Director of Orvis Travel
"I don’t really remember ever meeting a more enthusiastic, knowledgeable and professional representative of any company... When I compare Mr. Elkins to my many employees, in and out of this country, I want to have a beverage, or two, or four."
~ David Felman - Orvis Travel client