The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) has announced the appointment of Dr Damon Stanwell-Smith as Executive Director.
Damon will lead the Secretariat and work with IAATO’s Executive Committee to ensure the association is functioning according to its mission of safe, environmentally responsible private-sector travel to Antarctica.
Damon began his career as a marine biologist, gaining a PhD with the British Antarctic Survey. Before heading programmes at the United Nations Environment World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC), he has been a project manager and consultant for several multi-national organisations and commercial operators, including expedition leading in the polar tourism sector. He also has extensive practical experience as a commercial diver and contractor with an emphasis on monitoring and research.
Terry Shaller, Chair of IAATO’s Executive Committee said: “We are delighted to confirm Damon as Executive Director. He brings to the job a broad range of experience in commercial innovation, leadership and strategic planning that has involved a wide array of stakeholders and is set against a backdrop of environmental protection. Damon’s knowledge and skills will mesh very well with IAATO’s diverse group of committed operators.”
Dr Stanwell-Smith succeeds Dr Kim Crosbie who will step down on June 1, after 12 years with the association. IAATO thanked Kim for her outstanding contributions and wished her all the best with future endeavours.
IAATO has recently partnered with SCAR to develop an Antarctic Conservation Plan.