Intrepid Travel has unveiled an expanded leadership structure in Asia, reinforcing its commitment to responsible tourism and positioning itself for long-term growth. The strategic leadership adjustments align with the company’s ambitious goal of welcoming over 600,000 travelers annually by 2030.

Strengthening Leadership for Regional Expansion

As part of the new structure, Natalie Kidd, Managing Director of Global Operations and Asia, will take on an expanded role that now includes oversight of Destination Management Companies (DMC) sales alongside her existing responsibilities for Asia and Global Operations.

With nearly two decades of experience in the travel industry, Natalie has played a pivotal role in shaping Intrepid’s presence in Asia. Having started as General Manager in Vietnam, she has been instrumental in expanding the company’s footprint across the region. Under her leadership, Intrepid has grown into a global network of 28 inbound tour operators, reinforcing its expertise in sustainable and community-driven tourism.

A Vision for Responsible Tourism in Asia

Natalie’s deep understanding of the Asian travel landscape will help drive Intrepid’s strategy as it scales operations and strengthens partnerships. Based in Sydney, Australia, she is well-positioned to oversee the brand’s efforts in developing innovative experiences, enhancing destination management, and fostering sustainable tourism initiatives.

With an emphasis on ethical travel, cultural immersion, and environmental responsibility, Intrepid’s leadership expansion marks a key milestone in ensuring its continued success in Asia’s evolving tourism market.

As Intrepid gears up for accelerated growth, these changes reinforce its vision to deliver authentic, locally-led travel experiences while supporting economic and environmental sustainability across the region.

“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,” she says.

Strengthening Leadership with New Regional General Manager Roles

As part of Intrepid Travel’s enhanced leadership structure in Asia, the company has introduced two new Regional General Manager positions to bolster its operations and drive regional growth.

New Regional Leadership Appointments

• Ashish Verma has been appointed Regional General Manager for North & South Asia, overseeing key markets including China, Nepal, and India. After 13 years with Intrepid, he will relocate to Delhi from Kathmandu, where he previously served as Country Manager for Nepal.
• Mike Stewart will take on the role of Regional General Manager for Southeast Asia, overseeing Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. A veteran with 17 years at Intrepid, Mike will continue to be based in Bangkok, ensuring a strong leadership presence in the region.

Each country will continue to operate under the leadership of dedicated Country General Managers, ensuring localized expertise and operational efficiency remain at the forefront of Intrepid’s strategy.

Expanding Regional Leadership Presence

Intrepid’s largest office outside Melbourne will remain under the leadership of Poornaka Delpachitra, General Manager of Sri Lanka.

• Hanh Nguyen will continue to lead operations in Vietnam, ensuring the company’s presence remains strong in this key market.
• Kenny Onishi will retain his role as General Manager of Japan, reinforcing Intrepid’s commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism in the region.

These leadership developments underscore Intrepid’s strategic vision of strengthening operations, enhancing local leadership, and expanding its impact across Asia.

Kidd says with such experienced leaders across the region, Intrepid is well-positioned to strengthen operations and create new opportunities for responsible travel.

“I’m excited to build on our momentum in Asia and support our teams in driving Intrepid’s next phase of growth.”

With a global network of over 35 offices, including 10 locations across Asia—China, India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Nepal, Japan, Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia—Intrepid Travel continues to uphold its commitment to sustainable tourism and fostering meaningful connections between travelers and local communities.

In addition to its expansive office network, Intrepid operates 28 destination management companies (DMCs) worldwide, managing the majority of its own tours while also curating tailored itineraries for leading travel brands, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted leader in responsible and community-driven travel experiences.

The post China, India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Nepal, Japan, Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia Gain Strategic Focus as Intrepid Travel Enhances Leadership in Asia appeared first on Travel And Tour World.