Butterfield & Robinson enters new era with leadership appointments

Toronto-based luxury travel agency Butterfield & Robinson is starting a new chapter with recent appointments to its executive team across marketing, trip design and the traveller experience.

The update comes as the company celebrates its 60th anniversary, which was marked by the launch of a redesigned website focused on user experience and a new "Around the World in 60 Days" trip collection.

Under CEO Mike Scarola's leadership, Butterfield & Robinson is entering its next era “while honouring its legacy of thoughtful, immersive travel,” the company said in a press release.

"For nearly six decades, we've been designing exceptional journeys that connect people to the world and to each other in unforgettable ways," Scarola said in a press release. "These leadership appointments reflect our commitment to staying at the forefront of luxury travel while remaining true to the creativity and curiosity that has always defined us. This is a pivotal moment for us as the world of travel is changing, and we intend to lead that evolution by shaping experiences that inspire today's traveller and generations to come."

Alexander Green joins Butterfield & Robinson as chief marketing officer, bringing a blend of strategic, creative, and operational expertise to the role.

With a deep understanding of brand building and customer connection at top Canadian companies, Green most recently served as both CMO and CXO at grocery chain Longo's.

As CMO, he will focus on amplifying global brand presence and inspiring more travellers to discover the world of B&R, while amplifying the brand's unique voice in the luxury travel space.

"I'm excited to join Butterfield & Robinson at such a dynamic time in its journey," stated Green. "Entrepreneurial businesses have shaped my approach, so I'm eager to bring that perspective to a storied global brand like B&R.  This company has an extraordinary story to tell, and I look forward to expanding its reach and engaging with new audiences in fresh, meaningful ways."

Kristi Elborne, meanwhile, has been appointed chief experience officer.

A long-time Butterfield & Robinson leader and creative force, Elborne spent over a decade shaping the company's trip design, regional development, and destination partnerships.

Her career has since spanned senior leadership roles in luxury hospitality and real estate, including at Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts and Great Gulf, where she led high-profile brand and marketing initiatives.

In her new position at Butterfield & Robinson, Kristi brings a heightened focus and strategic oversight to sales, trip design, and traveller experience.

"I'm excited to step into the newly created role with Butterfield & Robinson at such a pivotal time in the company's history," stated Elborne. "I'm looking forward to sharpening how we craft and deliver unforgettable travel experiences while staying true to what has always made B&R special, our people and our commitment to a truly personalized experience."

Elborne will work closely with Eimear Duggan, who recently rejoined Butterfield & Robinson as senior director of sales and trip design, to enrich the traveller experience.

Duggan’s return further strengthens the company's experience team with deep industry expertise and creative vision, the agency said.

She will be partnering with Christina Cain, senior director of sales and trip design, to lead a global team of Experience Designers.

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook.