Chief Adventure Officer
3 days ago
Louisville
Job DescriptionSalary: TheChief Adventure Officer(CAO) is acoremember ofNat Habs executive leadership team andisresponsible fortranslating the companys strategic vision into best-in-class global adventure operations. This role holds ultimate accountability for the performance and continuous evolution of the entire Adventure Operationsteam,including alloffice team members, field team members, and operations partners worldwide. The CAO ensures Nat Habs adventures are flawlessly executed, operationally resilient, environmentally responsible, and consistently industry-leading in guest experience. This leader integrates strategic planning with day-to-day operational oversight, guiding the organization through growth, complexity, and innovation across all programs, geographies, and operational functions. RESPONSIBILITIES Strategic Leadership & Organizational Direction • Refine and lead the strategic direction for global adventure operations in partnership with the CEO and President., • Ensure alignment with Nat Habs mission, growthobjectives, and service standards across all programs and geographies., • Drive innovation in trip operations, field team management,logistics, partner relationships,and program delivery to enhance quality, efficiency, and scalability., • Establish enterprise-wide operational frameworks, policies, and best practices., • Lead Senior Vice Presidentsof Operations, the VicePresidentof Field Team, and other direct reports to ensure cohesive, high-performing global execution., • Foster a values-driven culture centered on communication, accountability, learning, and continuous improvement., • Direct organizational design, leadership development, succession planning, and staffing structures across all Adventure Operations teams., • Serve as the top decision-maker for operational resourcing, capacity planning, and cross-functional coordination., • Ensure all trips meet Nat Habs standards for safety, quality, environmental stewardship, and guest delight., • Oversee the full lifecycle of trip execution, from planning through on-the-ground delivery., • Oversee integration of Field Team management into trip delivery to ensure consistent,equitableglobal practices, including leadership support for decisions on hiring, scheduling, and training., • Manage global vendor and partner relationships, including contracting, performance oversight, and compliance with operational requirements., • Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, technology adoption, cost management, and operational innovation., • Oversee operational budgeting, forecasting, and financial performance for the Adventure Operations division., • Monitor operating costs, resourceutilization, and vendor pricing to ensure financial sustainability and profitability., • Partner with Finance to assess program performance,identifyrisks, and pursue opportunities for efficiency and growth., • Serve as the executive owner of operational safety standards, risk mitigation practices, and compliance protocols across all destinations., • Lead incident response and partner with the executive team on crisis communication and resolution., • Contribute to company-wide strategic planning, decision-making, and long-term visioning as a key member of the executive team., • Unite theAdventure Operations leadership teamunder a cohesive operational culture with shared frameworks, consistent expectations, and aligned priorities., • Champion Nat Habs operational excellence andon-tripguestexperience standards, ensuring every adventure embodies our commitment to conservation-focused exploration and responsible travel. SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS • 10-15+ years of experience in operations management,logistics, or related disciplines, preferably in travel, adventure tourism, hospitality, or service industries., • 7+ years of senior leadership experience overseeing multi-layered and geographically distributedteams., • Provenexpertisein operational strategy, organizational leadership, process development, and large-scale change management., • Strong analytical competency with the ability to synthesize data and translate insights into strategic and operational action., • Exceptional communication skills with the ability to influence, collaborate, and build trust across all levels of the organization., • Demonstrated success managing budgets, financial planning, and vendor negotiations., • Deep commitment to guest experience, sustainability, safety, and continuous improvement., • Ability to travel domestically and internationally asrequired. COMPENSATION Starting salary range: $170,000-$190,000plus an annual bonus. Compensation will becommensuratewith experience. (Per Colorados Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, employers must include compensation ranges in jobpostings.)This is afull-time, exempt position. This role includes a comprehensive benefits package with medical, dental, and vision insurance; a401(k)-retirementplan; generous paid time off; and paid holidays.Additionalperksinclude annual opportunities for paid travel on Nat Hab adventures, complimentary stays at our Colorado mountain house, access toour near-office house(The Nest), significant discounts with partner travel companies, and pro-deal pricing on outdoor gear. Our Louisville, Colorado office also offers scenic trails, an on-site fitness facility, and a caf serving daily breakfast, lunch, and locally roasted coffee.Benefits are subject to change at the companys discretion. LOCATION AND TRAVEL This positioncurrentlyoffers a hybrid schedule and requires in-person attendance at our Louisville, Colorado office at least50% of the time.Travelcould be30% of the year or more,with frequency dependent on operational priorities.This location and travel policy is subject to change at the companys discretion. WORKING HOURS Nat Haboperatesa 24/7 global adventure travel business, and this role reflects that reality. While standard company office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM MT, and Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, the CAOis expected tomaintainflexible availability beyond these hours to support operational continuity.As a senior leader responsible for global trip delivery and guest safety, the CAO will serve as a core member of the Emergency Incident Team and must be reachable for urgent situations, operational disruptions, and crisis response needs that may arise at any time, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.Additionalhours are oftenrequiredto meet the demands of a 24/7 operation and ensure seamless guest experiences across all regions. DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT At Natural Habitat Adventures, we believe that diversity enriches every journey. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where individuals from all backgrounds, identities, and life experiences are welcomed, respected, and valued. We encourage applicants from allwalks of lifeto join useven if youhaventworked in the travel industry before. Ifyourepassionate about our mission and bring ideas, talents, or perspectives that can help make Nat Hab a more innovative and resilient company, we want to hear from you. DISCLAIMER STATEMENT This job description is intended to outline the general nature and level of work performed in this role. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required of the position, and responsibilities may change at any time based on business needs.