Travalyst appoints new CEO
Travalyst has appointed Julie Cheetham as its new CEO. The independently governed, not-for-profit coalition was founded by Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex.
Cheetham steps into the role following a global search as Travalyst prepares for a year of expanded activity in 2026 including scaling its Data Hub, strengthening industry alignment on sustainability information and contributing to policy and regulatory coherence across travel and tourism.
Based in South Africa, Cheetham has more than 20 years’ experience across sustainability, tourism, technology and financial services. She was part of the founding team and later CEO of Weeva, the sustainability management platform acquired by Travalyst in 2024, and developed into the organisation’s Data Hub. Her earlier career included roles at Standard Bank, BMGi and the National Australia Bank – focused on strategy, operational excellence and ESG.
Since joining Travalyst as Chief Operations Officer in September 2024, Cheetham has overseen the development of the Data Hub, coalition engagement and operational growth.
Travalyst Founder Prince Harry said: “Travalyst is fulfilling a vital role for the future of global travel through innovation and collaboration across the industry. Julie has dedicated her career to the principle of travel for good that benefits people and places, and she has developed a unique perspective on systems-level change. Her leadership, experience and commitment to sustainability make her exceptionally suited to guide Travalyst into its next phase and we are delighted to welcome her as CEO.”
Cheetah Plains strengthens sales and marketing team
Cheetah Plains, the private game reserve in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, has appointed a new sales and marketing leadership team.
The new team includes Belinda Morrison as Commercial Manager, Daniek Rose as Head of Sales and Michelle Monk as Marketing, PR and Communications Manager.
Morrison brings more than 15 years’ experience in luxury hospitality with previous senior roles at The Vineyard Hotel Group, Taj Cape Town and Sun International. Rose joins from roles at Pepperclub Hotel and Cape Royal Luxury Hotel & Spa. Monk previously served as Assistant PR and Communications Manager at One&Only Cape Town and has experience across agency and brand-side communications.
The appointments support renewed focus on trade engagement, in-market activity and advisor capacity.
Rhino Safari Camp announces new ownership structure
Rhino Safari Camp, located on the shores of Matusadona National Park near Lake Kariba, has announced a new ownership structure.
Marina Massari remains Custodian of the camp and is joined by Ian Batchelor, Owner of Daka Plains in Hwange National Park and a Professional Guide with 35 years’ experience, and Mike Thorne, Veterinarian, Helicopter Pilot and Entrepreneur.
The new partnership will guide the camp’s next phase with focus on maintaining its intimate safari character while undertaking upgrades to improve comfort, safety and personalised service. The camp said it remains committed to low-impact tourism, conservation support within Matusadona National Park and community-based initiatives.
The alignment with Daka Plains will enable combined safari experiences across the Matusadona and Hwange national parks.
