Intrepid Travel CEO James Thornton has been named CEO of the Year at CEO Magazine’s 2024 Executive of the Year Awards. Thornton was also awarded CEO of the Year in the Consumer and Lifestyle category, marking a significant recognition of his impact and leadership in steering Intrepid Travel through a year of financial, social, and environmental achievements.
Alongside Thornton’s win, Intrepid Travel was the runner-up for the ‘100% Human at Work’ award, a category celebrating organisations that prioritise inclusivity, employee well-being, and workplace diversity.
Thornton’s recognition comes on the heels of Intrepid’s most profitable year to date and solidifies his status as a leader who isn’t just driving bottom-line success, but also meaningful change within and beyond the travel industry.
“This truly is a team recognition”
Thornton was quick to share the credit with his team, acknowledging the effort and dedication that Intrepid’s people bring to their work every day.
Citing Aussie cricketing legend and philanthropist Glenn McGrath (who was also recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award on the night), Thornton said, “with great people and a great team you can achieve great things”.
“This truly is a team recognition and reflects the incredible work that our Intrepid people do every day to create positive change through the joy of travel,” he posted to LinkedIn.
“Our goal is to create more opportunities for connection, impact and positive change. ” Thornton said.
“I’m also delighted with the recognition for our travel category of small-group, sustainable-experience rich travel, up against some of the biggest travel & lifestyle brand names.”
Leading through a landmark year
Under Thornton’s stewardship, Intrepid Travel posted a record net profit of $21.8 million — a sharp $47.7 million turnaround from 2022. More than just financial success, this result reflects Thornton’s vision for purpose-driven growth. In 2023 alone, Intrepid made charitable contributions totalling $4.6 million, supporting communities and causes close to the company’s values.
As a strong advocate for the B Corp movement, Thornton has positioned Intrepid at the forefront of sustainable, socially conscious travel. He has also led Intrepid to become an early adopter of the United Nation’s Forward Faster initiative, pushing forward on the living wage and climate action fronts.
Under Thronton, the company introduced changes that mean in 2024, Intrepid will achieve the living wage goal across its entire global workforce, comprising 2,900 staff.
Intrepid Travel recently celebrated its 35th anniversary in Melbourne, looking back on its growth from a two-person startup to a world leader in sustainable travel. Co-founders Darrell Wade and Geoff Manchester along with Thornton reflected on Intrepid’s journey and announced future plans that underscore its mission-driven approach to tourism.
Key announcements included Intrepid’s intent to open 10 new country offices and acquire 20 properties to support its community-based travel model. This expansion also highlights Intrepid’s commitment to sustainable tourism practices and local partnerships that generate positive impact in communities worldwide. Intrepid’s ongoing focus on sustainability has been reinforced by its B Corp certification, showing its dedication to ethical business standards, carbon-neutral operations, and giving back through The Intrepid Foundation, which supports global humanitarian projects.
Thornton’s remarks on the night emphasised the company’s core values and its vision of ‘growth with purpose’, blending expansion with a firm commitment to local communities and eco-conscious practices. By doubling down on purpose-led travel experiences, Intrepid is redefining what sustainable travel means for the industry, with plans for more experiences that align with environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
This anniversary served as both a celebration of Intrepid’s milestones and a re-commitment to values that have set it apart. The event also recognised long-standing partnerships and customers who have supported the company over the years. Intrepid’s plans signal an exciting new chapter, with an eye on sustainable, impact-driven growth that resonates with the changing priorities of global travellers.
For more on Intrepid’s 35-year journey and future vision, check out the full article on here: https://karryon.com.au/industry-news/intrepid-travel-marks-35-years-party/
