Intrepid Travel has hired Payton Iheme as its first chief impact officer, a pivotal role designed to amplify the company’s sustainability and impact commitments.
- Iheme will spearhead global initiatives from her base in Washington DC, guiding the company’s sustainability strategies and leading its not-for-profit arm, the Intrepid Foundation.
- With a background in advising the White House, Facebook, and Bumble, Iheme brings a wealth of experience in public policy, technology, and social advocacy.
- Intrepid Travel has a history of pioneering sustainable travel practices, becoming carbon neutral in 2010 and setting science-based carbon reduction targets by 2020.
- Iheme’s appointment is part of Intrepid Travel’s broader 2030 strategy, focusing on issues critical to the global travel community, including ESG and DEI efforts.
Intrepid Travel, a leader in sustainable travel practices, has announced the appointment of Payton Iheme as its inaugural chief impact officer. This move highlights the company’s commitment to expanding its global sustainability and impact initiatives. Based in Washington DC, Iheme will oversee Intrepid’s strategic direction in these critical areas, also managing its charitable arm, the Intrepid Foundation.
Iheme’s diverse background includes significant roles in the public and private sectors, providing a solid foundation for her new position. She has served as a senior policy advisor in President Obama’s administration, worked with the US Senate, and directed public policy at both Facebook and Bumble. Her career in Army civil affairs further complements her extensive experience in policy advocacy.
The decision to appoint Iheme followed an extensive global search, underscoring Intrepid Travel’s dedication to finding a leader with both expertise and alignment with its values. Intrepid’s CEO, James Thornton, heralded Iheme as a dynamic leader who will invigorate the company’s mission at this crucial juncture in their 2030 strategy pursuit.
Intrepid Travel’s dedication to responsible travel is well-documented. It achieved carbon neutrality in 2010 and was the first to adopt science-based carbon emission reduction targets in 2020. The company is known for prioritising ethical considerations, as seen by its removal of elephant rides from itineraries in 2014. Iheme’s role as chief impact officer will be instrumental in continuing and expanding these efforts.
Under Iheme’s leadership, Intrepid aims to fortify its impact strategy, enhancing its dedication to environmental sustainability, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Iheme expressed her enthusiasm about joining the team, stating her intent to use her voice and energy to advocate for pivotal global issues. She acknowledged the current challenge many companies face as they retreat from essential ESG commitments.
Payton Iheme’s appointment marks a significant step forward in Intrepid Travel’s sustainable and ethical journey.
