Former White House policy advisor joins Intrepid as chief impact officer

Intrepid Travel has announced the appointment of Payton Iheme to the newly-created role of chief impact officer.

Based in Washington D.C, Payton will lead Intrepid’s global sustainability and impact initiatives as well as its not-for-profit, the Intrepid Foundation. She will report to Intrepid Travel’s CEO, James Thornton.

“I'm delighted to welcome Payton to our team, after an extensive, global search process,” said Thornton in a press release. “Payton is a dynamic, values-driven business leader who has a diverse background of experiences across the public and private sectors and will bring a new perspective at this crucial time in our history as we seek to double down on the U.S. market as part of our 2030 strategy. We believe the world needs more Intrepid people and Payton will drive forward issues and causes that we know matter to our global community of connected and conscious travellers.”

Iheme is described as "passionate about advocating for a better, safer and fairer world." She will be responsible for developing and delivering Intrepid’s global impact strategy.

Iheme previously held senior policy and advocacy roles at Facebook and, most recently Bumble, where she was vice president and head of public policy.

She has also served in senior positions at the U.S Senate and within President Obama’s administration, working on technology, science and cyber policies, among other areas, following a successful career in Army civil affairs.

“Intrepid’s mission is to create positive change through the joy of travel, and I believe we can truly bring communities together and help build a stronger and more equitable world,” stated Iheme. “I’m honoured to join Intrepid at this crucial moment when we’re seeing too many companies divesting from ESG, DEI, and climate and conservation programming, as well as leaders shying away from advocating for the critical issues impacting so many communities around the world. As part of Intrepid Travel’s leadership team, I intend to bring my voice, my vision, and my energy to advocate on these issues and more.”

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