Intrepid’s Natalie Kidd named on AFR Women in Leadership List

June 2025

Intrepid Travel’s Managing Director of Asia and Head of Global Operations, Natalie Kidd, has been ranked #4 on the 2025 Australian Financial Review Women in Leadership List, in the Retail, Hospitality and Property category. 

Kidd’s recognition highlights a career shaped by leading with purpose, long-term vision, and a deep passion for empowering people to thrive. 

She joined Intrepid in 2005 as General Manager of Vietnam and has since helped grow the company’s footprint into a global network of 29 inbound tour operators. Based in Sydney, Natalie now oversees all operations across Asia and Global Operations. 

“It’s an honour to be named alongside so many inspiring, purpose-driven women who are reshaping the future of business in Australia,” Kidd said. 

Her leadership has been tested through moments of immense change – from guiding teams through the Arab Spring and Nepal’s 2015 earthquake, to helping shape Intrepid’s pandemic response as Chief People and Purpose Officer. In each challenge, Kidd’s approach has remained consistent: build trust, be transparent, and put people first. 

James Thornton, CEO of Intrepid Travel said: “Natalie has helped shape Intrepid into the purpose-driven business it is today. She’s an exceptional leader with the rare ability to navigate complexity, lift others, scale teams, and stay true to our values no matter the challenge." 

“This recognition reflects the impact she’s had across our people, our business, and the travel industry at large.” 

Kidd has also played a central role in identifying and championing talent at Intrepid, including Zina Bencheikh, now Intrepid’s MD of EMEA, and Anu Karunatilaka, the company’s Chief Technology Officer. 

The AFR Women in Leadership Awards were announced on Wednesday 11 June via a special report in leading Australian business paper The Australian Financial Review, with finalists recognised at a ceremony at the Sydney Opera House.