Intrepid Travel will host its annual Global Summit in Sri Lanka from 24–27 February, bringing together over 200 team members from more than 50 countries to discuss leadership, strategy, and the company’s vision for sustainable growth.This marks the second time the event has been held outside of Intrepid’s Melbourne headquarters, underlining Sri Lanka’s key role in the company’s global operations.
The four-day summit will include leadership workshops, strategy sessions, and community engagement activities, reinforcing Intrepid’s commitment to fostering an inclusive company culture and sustainable tourism. It’s also a chance for employees to experience the local culture, with familiarisation trips designed to connect the team to the destination and its people.
Intrepid’s Sri Lanka office, established in 2012, has grown into the company’s largest country office outside Melbourne, supporting crucial functions in technology, revenue management, HR, product services, finance, and customer service. The team has expanded to include 276 office-based staff and 45 local tour leaders.
Intrepid Travel CEO James Thornton says Global Summit is the company’s biggest week of the year for connection, learning and looking to the future.
“Our team in Sri Lanka are such an important part of our company, and our customers also love visiting this incredible and vibrant
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country,” Thornton says. “Our vision for Sri Lanka extends beyond tourism; it’s about driving sustainable growth and creating meaningful, lasting impact. The growing number of Intrepid travellers choosing Sri Lanka highlights its immense potential, and we remain committed to ensuring local communities share in the benefits of this success. I’m delighted that we will be able to share in the culture of Sri Lanka, while supporting local businesses and communities.”
In 2024, more than 4,000 Intrepid travellers visited Sri Lanka, a 206% increase from 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Intrepid’s Sri Lanka DMC aims to bring 15,000 travellers to the country by 2030, benefiting local communities, tour leaders, and small businesses.
Intrepid Travel Sri Lanka General Manager Poornaka Delpachitra is excited to welcome the global leadership team and colleagues to Colombo.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase Sri Lanka’s incredible offerings, share our vibrant culture, and celebrate our biggest people event of the year right here in my home country,” says Delpachitra.
This event cements Intrepid’s position as a leader in the travel industry, fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable tourism practices that benefit both local communities and travellers worldwide.
