Intrepid Travel strengthens Asia-Pacific leadership

Intrepid Travel, a leader in responsible travel, has announced three key leadership appointments across the Asia-Pacific region. 

New Zealand 

In New Zealand, Simon McKearney has been appointed Country General Manager, effective 19 May. 

Simon brings more than two decades of senior experience in the NZ travel sector. Based in Auckland, he will lead Intrepid’s New Zealand operations with a clear focus on inbound/outbound growth, domestic and local customer engagement. 

“This is an exciting opportunity to help reshape how a global travel brand operates in New Zealand,” Simon said. “Intrepid is walking the talk when it comes to investing in New Zealand, with a genuine desire to partner with the local industry and be part of its future. I’m excited to be on board.” 

The appointment comes after a period of strong performance and growth in New Zealand. In 2024, Intrepid welcomed record international travellers to Aotearoa, with top-selling trips including the nine-day South Island Express and 18-day Premium New Zealand Journey. 

Thailand and Laos 

Samantha Briggs has been appointed Country General Manager for Thailand and Laos. 

Samantha brings over a decade of global experience in high-growth sales and team leadership, having previously served as Intrepid’s Head of Sales for the UK & Europe. With a long-standing personal connection to Southeast Asia, where she lived growing up, Samantha returns to the region with a mission to build on Intrepid’s strong foundations in sustainable and community-led travel. 

Based in Bangkok, Samantha will oversee a team delivering trips for multiple global brands. In 2024, Intrepid DMC Thailand was recognised as one of Asia’s Best Places to Work by Great Place to Work®, underscoring its strong culture and people-first approach. 

Samantha said: “It’s a real privilege to return to Southeast Asia in this role and support a team that’s so passionate about creating positive change through travel.” 

Nepal  

In Nepal, Yalamber Rai has been promoted to Country General Manager, effective 1 April 2025. 

With 15 years of adventure travel experience and three years at Intrepid, most recently as Operations Manager, Yalamber has helped enhance safety protocols, streamline operational systems, and foster a high-performing team culture. 

He succeeds Ashish Verma, who now oversees the broader North & South Asia region. Yalamber will lead a team of 59 in Nepal, which welcomed over 3,500 travellers in 2024. 

“I’m incredibly proud to step into this role and continue building on our strong foundations in Nepal, delivering meaningful travel experiences that support our communities and showcase the best of this country,” Yalamber said. 

Intrepid DMC Nepal was the country’s top foreign currency earner among trekking agencies in 2024, a reflection of its growing influence and contribution to the economy.