HX has announced Gebhard Rainer as its new chief executive.
- The appointment is the final stage in the HX and Hurtigruten brand split.
- Rainer brings over two decades of experience in travel and hospitality.
- He succeeds Daniel Skjeldam, who was handling both chief executive roles.
- HX aims for growth with a focus on sustainability and innovation.
HX has revealed the appointment of Gebhard Rainer as the new chief executive, a significant step marking the culmination of the brand’s split from Hurtigruten. This leadership change signifies the ‘final phase’ of the separation, initially set in motion four years ago, in 2020. Daniel Skjeldam has been serving as both group chief executive and at the helm of HX during the transitional period, ensuring stability and continuity across the transition.
Bringing with him more than 20 years of extensive experience in the travel and hospitality industries, Rainer previously held the position of chief executive of Sandals Resorts International. This appointment is viewed as a strategic move to leverage his vast knowledge of the US market and his proven track record in running successful travel-related enterprises. The strategic decision underscores a renewed focus and investment in HX’s strategic vision and financial objectives.
In tandem with Rainer’s appointment, the company also announced Alex Ditcher in the newly-formed position of chairperson of the HX board. This move further solidifies HX’s governance framework as the company seeks to deliver on its long-term strategy. Skjeldam remarked that Rainer’s appointment is integral to HX’s strategic roadmap, citing his leadership skills and market insight as pivotal to HX’s continued growth and development.
Rainer expressed enthusiasm for his new role, emphasizing the shared vision for an expedition travel experience that is both low-impact and environmentally considerate. His commitment to innovation and growth aims to enhance HX’s influence and impact within the expedition travel sector, aligning with the company’s ambition to achieve autonomy by executing the newly-realised brand strategy.
With the brand’s division nearing completion, Skjeldam highlighted that the inclusion of a dedicated chief executive is ideally timed to steer HX toward its full potential. The establishment of a distinct brand identity and the implementation of the initial phases of a comprehensive long-term strategy positions the company advantageously to exploit future opportunities in the expedition travel market.
The strategic appointments underscore HX’s commitment to sustainable growth and market leadership in expedition travel.
