Intrepid Travel is making significant strides in its leadership structure across Asia, a move that underscores its commitment to sustainable tourism and ambitious growth objectives. As the company sets its sights on welcoming over 600,000 travelers by 2030, the newly established roles and expanded responsibilities for key leaders are crucial to enhancing operations throughout the region. With Natalie Kidd at the helm, along with two new regional general managers, Intrepid aims to bolster its presence in Asia, ensuring that every journey reflects their dedication to responsible travel and meaningful experiences. This strategic evolution not only reinforces Intrepid’s foundational ties to Asia but also positions the company to embrace new opportunities in the ever-evolving travel landscape.
| Position | Name | Location | Experience at Intrepid | Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Managing Director, Global Operations and Asia | Natalie Kidd | Sydney | 20 years | Oversees Asia and Global Operations, adds DMC sales |
Intrepid Travel’s Growth Strategy for Asia
Intrepid Travel is on an exciting journey to reach over 600,000 travelers by 2030! To make this happen, the company is updating its leadership in Asia. This means new roles and responsibilities for some key people. By strengthening its operations, Intrepid aims to provide amazing travel experiences while also focusing on responsible and sustainable tourism. With these changes, they hope to connect even more people to the beauty and culture of Asia.
As part of this growth strategy, Intrepid wants to ensure that every traveler has a meaningful experience. This means working with local communities and respecting the environments they visit. By expanding their leadership, Intrepid is not just thinking about numbers but also about the impact their travels can have. They are committed to making travel better for everyone involved, from the travelers to the places they explore.
Natalie Kidd’s Expanded Role
Natalie Kidd is stepping up in a big way! As the managing director of Global Operations and Asia, she will now oversee DMC sales along with her current responsibilities. With nearly 20 years at Intrepid, her knowledge and experience are invaluable. Starting her journey in Vietnam, she has helped the company grow into a vast network of tour operators across the globe. Her new role is key to achieving the ambitious goals set for 2030.
Kidd believes that these leadership changes will help Intrepid strengthen its operations in Asia. She wants to work closely with her team to ensure that travelers have memorable experiences. By focusing on growth and sustainability, she hopes to create new opportunities for responsible travel. With Kidd at the helm, Intrepid is ready to navigate the exciting challenges ahead in the travel industry!
Introducing New Regional General Managers
To better manage its operations in Asia, Intrepid has created two new regional general manager roles. Ashish Verma will oversee North & South Asia, while Mike Stewart will lead Southeast Asia. With years of experience at Intrepid, both managers bring a wealth of knowledge to their new positions. Their leadership will help ensure that each country has a strong focus on local needs while still connecting to Intrepid’s wider goals.
Verma and Stewart are not just leaders but also mentors for their teams. They understand the unique challenges and opportunities in their respective regions, which is important for fostering local talent. By having dedicated country general managers, Intrepid ensures that every destination receives personalized attention. This local approach is crucial for maintaining quality and promoting responsible tourism practices throughout Asia.
Building a Stronger Regional Presence
Intrepid’s office in Sri Lanka is the largest outside of Melbourne and is led by Poornaka Delpachitra. Under her guidance, the Sri Lankan team continues to thrive. Additionally, Hanh Nguyen and Kenny Onishi are leading the teams in Vietnam and Japan, respectively. Their combined experience is essential for Intrepid to enhance its presence in Asia and to promote sustainable travel practices across the region.
With such skilled leaders in place, Intrepid is well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the travel industry. They are dedicated to building a strong regional presence that focuses on responsible tourism. By supporting local communities and respecting cultural heritage, Intrepid aims to create travel experiences that are not only enjoyable but also beneficial for the places they visit.
Commitment to Sustainable Travel
Sustainable travel is at the heart of Intrepid’s mission. The company understands that travel can have a big impact on the environment and local communities. By committing to responsible practices, Intrepid aims to minimize its footprint and maximize positive effects. This includes supporting local businesses, preserving natural resources, and promoting cultural exchange between travelers and locals.
Intrepid’s leadership changes are a reflection of this commitment to sustainability. By empowering experienced leaders like Kidd, Verma, and Stewart, the company is ensuring that its growth will not come at the expense of the planet or its people. They believe that travel can be a force for good, and with their new structure, Intrepid is poised to lead the way in responsible tourism.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Travel with Intrepid
As Intrepid Travel looks toward the future, it is filled with excitement and optimism. The company’s goal of reaching over 600,000 travelers by 2030 is just the beginning. With new leadership structures in place, they are ready to adapt and innovate in the ever-changing travel landscape. This forward-thinking approach will help Intrepid stay relevant and continue to provide incredible experiences for adventurers.
The future of travel is bright with Intrepid leading the charge. By focusing on sustainable practices and local engagement, they are setting an example for other travel companies. Their commitment to responsible tourism means that every journey with Intrepid will be a chance to explore, learn, and grow. As they move forward, Intrepid aims to inspire travelers to make meaningful connections with the world around them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Intrepid Travel’s goal for 2030?
Intrepid Travel aims to reach over 600,000 travelers by 2030, focusing on responsible travel and sustainable tourism.
Who is Natalie Kidd at Intrepid Travel?
Natalie Kidd is the managing director of Global Operations and Asia, responsible for overseeing operations and DMC sales across the region.
What are the new roles introduced in Intrepid’s leadership structure?
Intrepid has added two regional general manager roles: Ashish Verma for North & South Asia and Mike Stewart for Southeast Asia.
How long has Ashish Verma been with Intrepid?
Ashish Verma has been with Intrepid for over 13 years and previously served as the country manager for Nepal.
Where is Intrepid’s largest country office located?
Intrepid’s largest country office outside Melbourne is in Sri Lanka, led by general manager Poornaka Delpachitra.
What is the focus of Intrepid’s leadership changes in Asia?
The leadership changes aim to strengthen operations, support teams, and enhance local leadership for more effective and responsible travel.
How does Intrepid plan to drive growth in Asia?
Intrepid plans to drive growth by leveraging experienced leaders, enhancing local operations, and creating new opportunities for sustainable travel.
Summary
Intrepid Travel is enhancing its leadership in Asia to support its goal of reaching over 600,000 travelers by 2030. Natalie Kidd, who has been with Intrepid for nearly 20 years, will expand her role to include Destination Management Companies, ensuring effective operations across the region. Two new regional general managers, Ashish Verma for North & South Asia and Mike Stewart for Southeast Asia, have been appointed to lead operations. These changes aim to strengthen local leadership, promote sustainable tourism, and enhance travel experiences, solidifying Intrepid’s commitment to responsible travel in Asia.
