G Adventures has made strides in its growth journey by expanding its executive leadership team, promoting Leah Shelly to Chief Community Officer and appointing Michelle Hudema as Chief Operating Officer. These new C-Suite appointments are set to reinforce the company’s commitment to community-driven travel.
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C-suite: Leah Shelly: Championing Community and Culture
Leah Shelly’s journey with G Adventures began in 2011, and since then, she has been pivotal in shaping the company’s award-winning culture. As Chief Community Officer, she will now oversee the people and culture across all G Travel Community (GTC) brands. Her focus is clear—creating environments where employees can thrive both at work and in their personal lives.
“My passion is fundamentally about people and potential,” Shelly expressed. She aims to unify the culture while respecting the unique identities of each brand under the GTC umbrella. This approach not only enhances employee engagement but also fosters a sense of belonging among the teams.
Michelle Hudema: Driving Operations for Growth
Meanwhile, Michelle Hudema, who joined G Adventures in 2008, steps into the role of Chief Operating Officer. Her extensive experience spans nearly every facet of the business, making her a formidable force in the organisation. Hudema will lead revenue management and operations, along with global tour operations and buying.
“Being part of something larger than any one person inspires me every day,” she remarked, highlighting her commitment to community development and operational excellence. Her contributions, including the creation of the Ripple Score, showcase her dedication to ensuring that traveller spending positively impacts local communities.
A Vision for Collaborative Growth
Jeff Russill, CEO of G Travel Community, underscored the importance of promoting leaders who possess deep institutional knowledge. He believes that both Shelly and Hudema exemplify the core values that make G Adventures unique. “They’ve grown through the business and continue to drive us forward with innovation and purpose,” he stated.
With the company entering a new phase of transformation, these leadership changes are timely. The expanded leadership structure aims to enhance collaboration across brands, ensuring that G Adventures is well-positioned for continued expansion in the travel industry.
Investing in People for Future Success
Bruce Poon Tip, founder and chairman of GTC, emphasised the significance of leadership development. He believes investing in people is crucial for building thriving communities. “When you have the best people, you have the recipe for success,” he shared, expressing excitement over the fresh perspectives that Shelly and Hudema bring to the C-Suite.
The recent appointments follow the successful completion of a major shared services transformation, reinforcing G Adventures’ commitment to nurturing leaders from within. As the organisation prepares for further growth and new acquisitions, these strategic moves signal a bright future for the company and its mission to change lives through travel.
