Intrepid named Louise Laing vice president of USA marketing. Photo: Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel has named Louise Laing as the new vice president of USA marketing.
In the new role, Laing will be responsible for leading all U.S. marketing efforts across consumer, brand, media, and digital. Reporting to Leigh Barnes, president of the Americas, the marketing executive stepped into the role on July 28, 2025.
The tour operator said in a release that her appointment coincides with a restructuring of Intrepid’s North America team to better separate the U.S. and Canada operations as distinct regions. Tara McCallum will continue to lead marketing in Canada.
Laing first joined Intrepid in 2020 as general manager of marketing and PR for the Asia-Pacific region. She’s held various leadership marketing roles in her career, including her role as director of marketing (APAC) at G Adventures, marketing manager for North Asia for Great Southern Touring Route, and general manager marketing at Visit Ballarat.
Currently Laing is based in Melbourne, Australia, but will relocate to Seattle, U.S. in October.
“I’m excited to take on this new chapter in the U.S. and expand our brand to reach more local agents and travelers,” said Laing. “I’ve always believed great marketing starts with great storytelling—and Intrepid has one of the best stories in the world. I can’t wait to grow our passionate, local team and connect with more U.S. Agents and travelers.”
In her previous role at Intrepid, general manager of marketing for ANZ (2022 to 2025), Laing played a key role in developing the region’s post-pandemic strategy. According to Intrepid, Laing was instrumental in fostering double-digit growth and record sales in Australia and New Zealand.
“Louise is exactly the kind of bold, creative leader we need as we chart the next era of growth in the U.S.,” said Barnes. “She’s already proven what’s possible in ANZ—and now she’s bringing that energy, vision, and passion for purpose to the American market. This move is more than a promotion—it’s a sign of what’s to come as we evolve our leadership model to better serve our travelers, partners, and communities.”
MOST VIEWED

Subscribe today to receive daily in-depth coverage from all corners of the travel industry, from industry happenings to new cruise ships, hotel openings, tour updates, and much more.

Subscribe to TMR
The 16 new itineraries are TTC Tour Brands’ largest expansion in seven years.
In her new role, Ertmann will help travel and hospitality brands and trade partners convert interest into bookings.
Globus and Cosmos have expanded their South Pacific portfolio with three new tours in 2026.
The full-service luxury villa company has expanded its carefully vetted portfolio with properties in England and Austria.
As the EU sets a date for its new EES, the cost of its upcoming authorization requirement triples.
The new itineraries focus on two cities, allowing guests more time to fully experience the regions.

source