HX, previously known as Hurtigruten Expeditions, appoints Gebhard Rainer as CEO, while Daniel Skjeldam transitions to a new role.
- Rainer’s appointment signals a strategic move towards complete independence with a dedicated leadership team.
- Daniel Skjeldam highlights the successful direction setting for HX and the timely introduction of a new CEO.
- Rainer expresses enthusiasm for advancing responsible and innovative expedition travel as he joins the company.
- The leadership change takes effect on 15 July, marking a significant transition phase for HX.
In a significant move for HX, former Hurtigruten Expeditions, Gebhard Rainer has been named the new chief executive, succeeding Daniel Skjeldam, who will transition to a board member role within the Hurtigruten Group. This change is a part of HX’s strategy to establish a fully autonomous leadership structure following their separation from the sister company, Hurtigruten, last year.
Daniel Skjeldam, who has been pivotal in guiding both the group and HX during the initial phases of this transformation, stated, ‘We have now set the right direction for HX, both when it comes to introducing a new brand and establishing and executing the first parts of the new long-term strategy.’ He emphasised the importance of bringing in a dedicated CEO to unlock HX’s full potential as it progresses.
Expressing his excitement, Gebhard Rainer remarked, ‘I’m thrilled to embark on this journey and to contribute to our shared vision for expedition travel that is mindful, responsibly low-impact, and considerate of our surroundings.’ His background includes leadership roles at Sandals Resorts International and Coach, indicating a robust experience in steering complex organisations.
The leadership transition will officially take place on 15 July, with Skjeldam remaining as the CEO for both entities until then. This change is poised to further bolster HX’s market position as it continues to innovate and expand within the expedition travel sector.
With Rainer’s appointment, HX embarks on a new chapter, striving for growth and innovation in expedition travel.
