Aurora Expeditions CEO Monique Ponfoort departs

Aurora Expeditions CEO Monique Ponfoort departs

Aurora Expeditions has announced the departure of CEO Monique Ponfoort after a year and a half at the company.

“Given our strong position, the talented teams driving our plans forward, and our successful return to operations, I feel that now is the best time to announce my plans to step away to pursue a new challenge,” commented Ponfoort.

Having joined the company in 2020 at the height of the global pandemic, Ponfoort lead the company during a challenging time within the industry.

During her time with Aurora, Ponfoort accelerated meaningful changes for the brand including the launch of its ‘Sustainability In Action’ program.

Ponfoort also spearheaded the business’ global growth in key source markets and the development of key global industry partnerships such as Virtuoso as well as Qantas.

Throughout her time at the company, Ponfoort focused on enhancing health and safety protocols and providing a safe return to Aurora’s operations in Antarctica.

“I have achieved the goals I had set out for Aurora Expeditions when I joined the business in 2020, and I am confident that the company is well-positioned to continue its growth,” Ponfoort said.

“Personally, I am excited and ready for a new challenge, and I wish the Aurora team every success for the future.

“I will very much miss working with such a talented and passionate team and highly valued trade partners.”

Aurora Expeditions chairman, Neville Buch, added: “We wish to personally thank Monique for her valued contribution and leadership of Aurora Expeditions during this difficult time and getting us back to what we do best – extraordinary expeditions – as well as helping us prepare for the imminent launch of our second expedition ship, the Sylvia Earle.”

Ponfoort will be staying with the business to assist Aurora Expeditions with managing it through a transitional period.

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