KATHMANDU, MARCH 3
Intrepid Travel has announced changes to its leadership structure in Asia to support regional growth and advance its 2030 goal of reaching over 600,000 travelers. The new structure is aimed at strengthening operations and reinforcing the company's commitment to responsible travel and sustainable tourism.
Natalie Kidd, Intrepid's Managing Director of Global Operations and Asia, will take on an expanded role, adding Destination Management Companies (DMC) sales to her oversight of Asia and Global Operations, according to the press release issued by the company.
Based in Sydney, Australia, Natalie has been with Intrepid for more than 19 years, starting as General Manager in Vietnam and growing Intrepid's footprint into a global network of 28 inbound tour operators. With nearly two decades of experience in the Asian travel sector, Natalie brings extensive regional knowledge and operational expertise to support Intrepid's growth plans across Asia, the release further stated.
"Asia has always been at the heart of Intrepid's story. The new structural changes position us to strengthen our operations, support our teams, and continue delivering meaningful travel experiences across the region. I'm looking forward to working closely with our leaders to drive sustainable growth and create new opportunities as we work towards our 2030 goals," Kidd said.
Additionally, Intrepid has introduced two new Regional General Manager positions to oversee key markets in Asia.
Ashish Verma has been appointed Regional General Manager for North & South Asia, overseeing China, Nepal, and India, while Mike Stewart will lead Southeast Asia as Regional General Manager, covering Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
Ashish, with over 13 years at Intrepid, will relocate to Delhi from Kathmandu where he was previously country manager of Nepal, and Mike, with 17 years at Intrepid, continues to be based in Bangkok, it added.
"Each country will continue to have its own dedicated Country General Manager, ensuring strong local leadership and operational focus across the region."
Intrepid's largest country office outside Melbourne will continue under the leadership of Poornaka Delpachitra, General Manager of Sri Lanka. Hanh Nguyen remains General Manager of Vietnam, and Kenny Onishi continues to lead our business in Japan.
"With experienced leaders across the region, Intrepid is well-positioned to strengthen operations and create new opportunities for responsible travel," Kidd added. "I'm excited to build on our momentum in Asia and support our teams in driving Intrepid's next phase of growth."
Intrepid Travel operates more than 35 offices globally, including 10 in Asia (China, India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Nepal, Japan, Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia). The company also manages 28 destination management companies worldwide, running its own trips and providing tailored itineraries for other travel brands.