Travel Job Series: Kier Matthews, On Location
If you’re passionate about sports and entertainment — there’s a travel job for that! In this issue, we have asked Kier Matthews, an extremely well-networked travel agent charmer, to tell us how he gets into events like the Olympics, Coachella, New York Fashion Week, Super Bowl, FIFA-level events, and how you can too through with his company On Location.
We first met at the LE/Miami event in June, battling insane storms and party hopping, practically swimming to the next venue, and became fast friends. In this post, he shares how he got started.
Meet Kier Matthews, On Location
What is On Location?
On Location offers world-class hospitality, exclusive ticket packages, and end-to-end travel for marquee events around the world serving as the official partner for iconic franchises in sports and entertainment, including the IOC, NFL, NYFW, NCAA and more.
What’s the biggest highlight of the job so far?
Experiencing the Olympics Opening Ceremony.
What event are you looking forward to?
FIFA Men’s World Cup in 2026.
Who's the most interesting person you've met and why?
Simon Sinek is the most interesting person I’ve met. He distills information down to the key points.
What is your background and education?
Politics, hotel operations, and for the last 15 years, luxury travel sales leadership. My degree from Shaw University is in International Relations.
What's a typical day or week on the job?
Either on the road at a trade show or at home in LA packed with client lunches, coffees, dinners, or Zoom meetings.
What was your biggest career risk?
My biggest risk was moving into sales leadership. I always sensed that I had a leadership philosophy that could help salespeople connect with their clients in a meaningful way.
What is a solid career tip you'd give?
Be transparent with your clients. They may not like your response, but you will build trust.
Please share one or more career highlights, maybe one that was particularly pivotal.
My marketing colleague introduced me to the Simon Sinek “Start with Why” sales technique. From then on, I connected with clients in a much more meaningful way that was very impactful for our sales growth.
What's your most memorable trip and why?
I don’t have a single trip. My most memorable trips are when I’m traveling with my two daughters. They inspire me, and I love seeing the world through their eyes.
What would you tell your younger self?
Calm down.
Please share a fun fact that not many people know about you.
I immediately unpack when I walk into my house. I also refill/replace all toiletries immediately.
