People on the move

The Long Run appoints new Chair

Julie Cheetham, Travalyst COO and Chair of The Long Run’s Board of Trustees.

The Long Run has appointed Julie Cheetham as Chair of its Board of Trustees, succeeding Louise Cottar who served in the role for a decade and will remain engaged as a Global Ecosphere Retreat member.

Reflecting on her tenure, Cottar said: “It has been a great privilege to serve as Chair and to witness The Long Run become one of the world’s most impactful communities of nature-based tourism enterprises. Together, we have strengthened governance, achieved financial sustainability and set a clear path to 2030. Having accomplished these goals, it is the right time to hand over to fresh leadership to guide the next phase of growth.”

Cheetham, COO of Travalyst and part of the Weeva founding team, has over two decades of sustainability leadership experience. She said: “I am honoured to take on the role of Chair at such a pivotal time. The Long Run’s members are proving every day that tourism can regenerate ecosystems, empower communities and celebrate culture. I look forward to working with the Board, members and team to build on this extraordinary legacy and accelerate our collective impact.”

Anne-Kathrin Zschiegner, Executive Director of The Long Run, added: “On behalf of our team and community, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to Louise for her tireless leadership and vision. Her guidance has been instrumental in shaping The Long Run into the thriving global community it is today. We are equally excited to welcome Julie as our new Chair. Her wealth of experience and commitment to sustainability will help us scale our impact and continue inspiring change across the tourism sector.”

Madagascar Classic Collection appoints Sales and Marketing Manager

Amanda Vermeulen, Madagascar Classic Collection Sales and Marketing Manager.

Amanda Vermeulen has joined Madagascar Classic Collection as Sales and Marketing Manager. With over 25 years in the tourism industry, including 17 years in sales and marketing, Vermeulen has represented lodges and DMCs across the UK, US, Australia and other key markets.

She said: “I am thrilled to join Madagascar Classic Collection at such an exciting time for the company and the destination. Madagascar has so much to offer – from extraordinary biodiversity to unique cultural heritage – and I look forward to working with our trade partners to showcase the camps, our DMC services and the country’s incredible experiences to international travellers.”

Nyumbu Luxury Collection appoints UK ambassador

Renette Hartridge, Director of Exclusive Retreats and Nyumbu Luxury Collection UK Travel Trade Sales and Marketing Liaison.

Renette Hartridge, Director of Exclusive Retreats, has been appointed UK Travel Trade Sales and Marketing Liaison for Nyumbu Luxury Collection in Tanzania.

Hartridge will represent the brand in the UK with product training, sales support, fam trips, site visits and marketing initiatives.