Intrepid Travel has announced an expanded leadership structure in Asia to support the company’s growth strategy and achieve its 2030 goal of reaching over 600,000 travellers. These changes are aimed at strengthening operations across the region and furthering our commitment to responsible travel and sustainable tourism.
Expanded role for Natalie Kidd
Overseeing DMC sales and operations
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.
Nearly two decades of industry expertise
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.
Commitment to sustainable growth
“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.
New Regional General Manager roles
As part of Intrepid’s expanded leadership structure in Asia, two new Regional General Manager roles have been established.
Ashish Verma to lead North & South 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.
Mike Stewart to head Southeast Asia
Ashish, with over 13 years at Intrepid, will relocate to Delhi from Kathmandu, where he was previously Country Manager of Nepal. Mike, with 17 years at Intrepid, continues to be based in Bangkok.
Ensuring strong local leadership
Each country will continue to have its own dedicated Country General Manager, ensuring strong local leadership and operational focus across the region.
Strengthening Intrepid’s regional presence
Intrepid Travel’ 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 the business in Japan.
Commitment to responsible travel
Kidd says with such experienced leaders across the region, Intrepid is well-positioned to strengthen operations and create new opportunities for responsible travel.
Driving the next phase of growth
“I’m excited to build on our momentum in Asia and support our teams in driving Intrepid’s next phase of growth.”
