James Ayres

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT JAMES AYRES

James E. Ayres is an accomplished sales and marketing leader currently serving as Associate Sales Director – Host Accounts at Kensington, where he drives strategic growth by strengthening partnerships within key host agency networks and supporting top-performing travel advisors.With over two decades of leadership across the travel, hospitality, and events industries, James was named 2024 National BDM of the Year—an honor that reflects his strategic vision, advisor-first mindset, and consistent performance excellence.James is also the co-creator and co-host of Two BDMs and a MIC, alongside Krysti Konopacky. The show became a leading travel industry video podcast, known for delivering engaging, high-impact content focused on resort education and advisor success. It built a strong following through live broadcasts on Facebook and expanded its reach across YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. The podcast earned back-to-back Social Media of the Year awards in 2023 and 2024, recognizing its influence, reach, and meaningful contribution to the travel advisor community.His career is rooted in a passion for immersive guest experiences and dynamic content creation, with previous leadership roles at Viking Cruises, Club Med, Club Getaway, and Luxor Hotel & Casino. In these roles, he led large-scale events, managed entertainment programs, and developed high-performing teams.Blending creative media expertise with a forward-thinking approach to sales and partnership development, James continues to elevate advisor engagement and deliver meaningful growth across the travel industry.