Intrepid promotes Emily Jirout to GM, operations of NA to drive U.S. growth

Intrepid Travel has promoted Emily Jirout to general manager of operations, North America, effective April 14. 

Jirout, currently senior people partner for North America, "emerged as the clear standout for the role," the company said in a press release. 

She brings "a rare combination of deep operational experience, strategic people leadership, and long-standing commitment to Intrepid’s purpose-led model." 

Jirout has spent over a decade working at Intrepid and the broader travel industry, including a successful return in 2021 to help guide the company through rapid post-pandemic growth. 

As GM of operations, Jirout will lead day-to-day operations for Intrepid and Wildland Trekking across North America, supporting DMC integration, driving strategic growth, and ensuring operational excellence as the company enters a new era in the U.S. 

She will continue to temporarily oversee the people function until a new VP of People, based in Seattle, is appointed. That role will go live for recruitment later this week. 

“This is a natural next step, and I’m incredibly proud to continue serving a company that leads with both impact and ambition,” said Jirout. “I’m excited to help shape the next chapter of growth in the U.S. and to lead a team that reflects the best of Intrepid—real, bold, and purpose-driven.”

With the U.S. now Intrepid’s fastest-growing market globally, Jirout’s appointment signals a renewed focus on strengthening internal leadership and ensuring operational agility across the U.S. business. 

Her background in HR, legal, and integration makes her uniquely positioned to navigate Intrepid into its next phase of impact and its bold 2030 vision for growth. 

The announcement comes alongside a structural evolution within the Americas leadership team. Matt Berna, SVP for North America, will now focus exclusively on sales and partnerships, continuing his pivotal role in driving revenue across the region. 

“Having an experienced Intrepid leader at the helm of U.S. operations is critical,” said Leigh Barnes, president of the Americas. “Emily understands Wildland, she understands scale, and most importantly, she understands people. Her leadership will be key to unlocking our next phase of growth in the region.” 

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