Adventure specialist Intrepid Travel has promoted James Thornton to the role of managing director.
He succeeds company co-founder Geoff Manchester, who has decided to hand over the role of managing director so he can concentrate on other areas of the business such as responsible travel.
Thornton, currently the company’s commercial director and general manager sales & product steps up on December 1.
Claire Wilson was recently appointed regional director UK & Ireland for Intrepid, following a merger with The Adventure Company, where she was managing director. Wilson will report to Thornton.
Throughout Intrepid’s history, its co-founders have rotated leadership of the business, with Manchester taking on the role of managing director for the last two years while Intrepid transitioned to the PEAK Adventure Travel Group.
He will continue to play an integral role within Intrepid, the company said, leading The Intrepid Foundation, acting as an ambassador for Intrepid at industry, business and promotional events and taking on other activities within his remit as a PEAK director.
PEAK chief executive and Intrepid co-founder Darrell Wade said: “Geoff has played a huge role in growing and leading Intrepid over the last 23 years, both as co-founder and as managing director.
“His leadership, strong values, focus on sustainable business and operational management have been pivotal in positioning it as the business that it is today – the world’s leading small group adventure brand.
“We’re delighted to have appointed James Thornton as a strong successor from within the business, and we’re confident that he will lead the Intrepid Group to new heights.
“He will be working closely with Geoff over the coming months to ensure there is a smooth transition of responsibilities and that the business continues to grow sales.”